Dhruvit Patel

Dhruvit Patel is a transfer computer science major from Grayslake, IL

Hometown: Grayslake, IL

Class Of: 2023

Transfer from: College of Lake County

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
While growing up I always had a passion to pursue a career as a software engineer. That is the reason I am pursuing my major in computer science at NIU, to broaden my skills and to research more in depth about computer science and the skills I need to make my dream goal come true.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am pursuing my major in computer science with an emphasis in software development. I chose computer science because it gives me the opportunity to explore my passion for problem-solving as well as creativity. Through my analytical and technical skills, I can create ideas that solve user problems and design and code to meet the needs of the user.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I am so glad to be a Huskie because everyone on campus is very friendly and helpful. Whenever I talked to students, staff or faculty I learned new things every day, and that made me feel confident and comfortable with everyone. Overall, I have found campus to be the best spot for feeling energetic and refreshed; whenever I am on campus, I never feel bored or like I want to go home. 

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have met many students by getting involved in student organizations, taking classes together and working on class projects. I have connected with many faculty, staff and students at the Holmes Student Center, by participating in Huskie Hackathons, by taking classes and by going to the Rec Center.

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 currently vice president of the Indian Student Association (ISA). The goal of the Indian Student Association is to connect the Indian community and traditions to NIU by providing a foundation that represents Indian culture and values. ISA aims to promote Indian culture and heritage at NIU and throughout DeKalb. ISA organizes various events around the year, including cultural festival celebrations, freshers celebrations, farewell parties and sports tournaments. As vice president of ISA, I have learned to host events, gained the ability to make decisions and speak fluently on the stage, and built better communication skills.

I am also an honors member of the National Society of Leadership and Success at NIU. As a member of NSLS, I gained strong leadership qualities and achieved personal growth.

I am also a part of Network of Nations (NON), a nonprofit organization that links NIU and community international students with each other. NON has a weekly cafe every Friday, which has helped me make better connections at NIU.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you succeed? And how?
I was a research assistant, and to get the resources I had to research and analyze data. So, Founders Library was my go-to place to relax, spend time with other students and staff, and work in a good environment. Apart from that, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences helped me in terms of using lab computers. I could get a lab key whenever I had time to work on my research project. 

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors at NIU in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences was Dr. Michael Papka, who was also my faculty mentor in my research. He was helpful in all possible ways for my research as well as for my academic coursework. He helped me understand the research field and fundamental ways to be a good researcher. 

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
By attending classes I have gained insight into being a better student while asking questions, understanding my problems and working further. I think in order to succeed it is worth going to class to understand the complex problems in my coursework and execute them by getting the best possible solutions from faculty.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My most favorite spot on campus is the Holmes Student Center. I can do whatever I want at the HSC in terms of study if I have some work to do, or I can go to the Huskie Den if I am bored and need some relaxation. HSC also has Starbucks and Qdoba, which were my favorite places to enjoy my coffee and have a healthy meal while I focus on my courses.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
My advice to a student applying to NIU is to explore all the opportunities NIU provides and get involved in student organizations. NIU respects diversity, so no matter if you are from a different culture, still you will find NIU as your home. 

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Initially, when I transferred to NIU, I was feeling like I had no one by my side to connect with. I have learned to explore and get involved in campus groups and student organizations. I got to know many things about NIU mentors, tutoring services, the Holmes Student Center, libraries and administrative offices. All these places I am familiar with because they have helped me succeed, and I am proud to say that I am a Huskie.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I go to the Recreation Center where I can be healthy and fit while studying. Sometimes I make plans in advance to go off campus and explore local restaurants and enjoy different meals. While doing this I feel relaxed and refreshed, and I can focus more on my studies while enjoying and having fun on and off  campus in DeKalb.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I am glad to be a part of Huskie Spotlights.