Nina Osborne

Nina Osborne is a higher education and student affairs graduate student from Chicago, IL

Hometown: Chicago, IL

High School: King College Prep

Year: Expected graduation: spring 2026

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was growing up, I wanted to be everything you can imagine! My hobbies and activities were always changing; however, I always knew I wanted to help others succeed. I am happy to say that I have narrowed it down to academic advising.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m pursuing an M.S.Ed. in higher education and student affairs. I decided to go this route because I was able to succeed with the aid of my academic advisors. Because of them I want to help the next generation of students. The work they do affects thousands of students. To all the academic advisors/counselors: You are appreciated, and your hard work does not go unnoticed.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The people I have met along the way! As a freshman I wasn't sure I was going to find my community, but I discovered they were already there in clubs or organizations.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Because HESA is a cohort program, I have the same classes as the people in my cohort and some with the second-year cohort. This means I am able to grab coffee with my peers, go to events with them here at NIU or attend conferences together.

Are you involved in any student organizations, mentoring programs or extra-curricular activities? If so, which ones? How have they added to your experience as a Huskie?
I am involved in Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, and I was involved in Huskie Service Scholars (HSS) when I was a freshman. Through both of these programs, I was able to give back to not only the NIU community, but also the DeKalb and Sycamore communities. What I love about Kappa Phi Lambda is that I was able to meet sisters from different backgrounds and gain sisterhood out of the organization. They have been my support line through the rest of undergrad and into my graduate years.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I’ve benefited from Counseling and Consultation Services and the Huskie Academic Success Center!

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My two favorite professors have been Dr. Quortne Hutchings and Dr. Jacqueline Mac. They both teach a mixture of classes in the HESA program, such as HESA 522: College Development Theory, HESA 502: Equity, Diversity and Social Justice, HESA 590 (usually rotating topics) and HESA 598: Capstone.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
Founders Memorial Library for the days I have to lock in and get work done, but when I am in the mood to do something fun, I head to the Holmes Student Center; there is always an event happening.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Look into the student organizations and clubs on campus and reach out to them to get their perspective on campus life.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because so many of my family members sacrificed so much to get me where I am today. They either weren't able to go to college or had to drop out due to personal circumstances. My education is not only for me, but for them as well. College has changed my life for the better personally and professionally. I am happy I chose to do this journey, and I want to keep learning, which is why I came back for my master's degree.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Honestly, I am still learning this as I go along in graduate school. But what really helps is having friends and family who understand that you are busy because they are busy, too. Sometimes our way of connecting is a quick check-in text, sending each other things on social media or a brief meet-up on the weekend. I usually try to get my schoolwork done during the week so I can have the weekend to myself and spend time with family and friends.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Instagram! Please download Instagram even if you don't post anything. This is how student orgs, clubs and the university post events that are happening on campus. Also check your student email, because NIU will send you information about events that are taking place each week.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I spend time with my sorority sisters or my friends, which usually consists of going out of town, eating out, or just spending time watching TV or a silly activity. Being with them allows me to ground myself.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Currently my graduate assistantship is with Founders Memorial Library. I am a TA and also help out at the research help desk. Some of my hobbies include reading, listening to music, shopping, watching movies, arts and crafts, and cooking.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
You get what you put into your campus. Get involved, put yourself out there and make memories! You only get four years to have fun, then you have to be an adult. College is a good place to become more sociable and learn from others. Here you are allowed to make mistakes and learn from them, so please make the mistakes and grow from them.