Ana Karen Pizano

Ana Karen Pizano is an online higher education doctoral student with a specialization in community college leadership, from Waukegan, IL

Hometown: Waukegan, IL

High School: Waukegan High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

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 aspired to be a teacher. However, life's journey led me down a different path, and I am now pursuing an online doctorate in higher education with a specialization in community college leadership.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I decided to pursue a doctorate in community college leadership because it closely aligns with my professional career goals and fulfills one of my personal aspirations. The program is tailored for working professionals like me, making it an ideal fit. It has been a fantastic experience, and I have gained a wealth of knowledge that I’ve been able to directly apply to my role as director of the Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Planning and Research at the College of Lake County.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One aspect of my experience at NIU that has pleasantly surprised me is the extensive support from the professors, especially considering it is an online program. They are incredibly attentive and supportive, and I greatly value them sharing their professional experiences with us. This has significantly contributed to my professional growth.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
My program is cohort-based, which has been a great experience. We are a tight-knit group, always supporting each other when we have questions or need to troubleshoot issues.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The NIU libraries, College of Education and Office of the Bursar have been so helpful in responding to my questions.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
It's really difficult to choose just one professor. All the professors I've had in my program have significantly impacted my education. They've played a crucial role in my professional growth and have empowered me to continue pursuing my dreams. I know I can turn to any of my professors, and they would be willing to help me. They all believe in me and see my potential.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Regularly attending class has greatly benefited me by keeping me on track with my program timeline, course offerings and learning.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I am an online student. I can speak to my online leaning community experience, which has been great. My professors have done a great job creating a safe virtual space for me and my classmates.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Apply to NIU's community college leadership online program, you will not regret it!

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it has allowed me to break free from a cycle of generational trauma. Through education, I have found a place to learn and feel empowered, giving me the voice to fight for myself and my community. I view education as a means to pave the way for future Latino/a/x students, including my own children.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Some of the strategies I use to manage my time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family are jotting down a to-do list and prioritizing the items on the list. Then I transfer items to my electronic and paper planners. As I complete the tasks, I check them off. Saturdays are family days, and Sundays are school wrap-up loose ends day. During the week, I make sure I complete tasks/projects that are essential for my work and school.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I regularly check my NIU email to ensure I stay informed about events and services that are available on campus.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
My way of relaxing and/or recharging is spending time with my family, going on vacations or treating myself to a massage.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I have over 12 years of experience in higher education, mainly working at the College of Lake County's Office of Institutional Effectiveness, Planning and Research (IEPR). During this time, I've held various positions and currently serve as the director of IEPR, a role I've held for nearly a year (including my time as interim director). Working across different roles in IEPR has been key in my learning and skill/leadership development, enabling me to understand the time and effort needed for projects. This understanding has been instrumental in effectively leading and supporting my team. In my capacity as IEPR's director, I oversee research, data inquiry, compliance and assessment, playing a vital role in decision-making at the college. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also enjoy going on vacations, walking, reading, baking and treating myself to a massage.