Sierra Ramos

Sierra Ramos is an early childhood education major from Rochelle, IL

Hometown: Rochelle, IL

High School: Rochelle Township High School

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?
I have always wanted to work with kids. I was the kid taking care of the younger kids if I was anywhere. I am pursuing that as a major.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am an early childhood education major. I decided to be a teacher because I have always liked working with kids. I want to help kids who might not get as much help as they should. My favorite thing to do with the kids is teaching them how to read.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The number of quiet spaces that I have been able to find on campus.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
For a couple of my classes, extra credit has been offered for groups to meet in person rather than online.

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 a member of the Huskie Marching Band/Pep Band and a member of Kappa Kappa Psi, an honorary band fraternity. I am also in Gaming for All, Garden Club and the Anime Club. I think that they have added to my experience as a Huskie. I do not think I would go to many sports events if I were not in the Marching Band or Pep Band.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I have worked somewhat closely with the School of Music. The staff is part of the reason why the Music Building is my safe place.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite teachers that I have had is Professor Michelle Sands. I had her for SESE 423 (Observation and Assessment of Early Childhood Special Education) and SESE 424 (Methods and Strategies for Promoting Development in Toddlers). She is always a ray of sunshine for her students, always asking how we are doing and helping us when we are not doing okay.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
I learn better when I get the information in person compared to online, and having that schedule keeps me on track.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
The Music Building. I am not a music major myself, but that is where a lot of my friends are. I usually chill in the snack lounge, and there is always something chaotic going on. That is my safe place. (Shoutout to Gilbert Hall fourth floor corner lounge. That is a good group of people to be around.)

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Take your time to find somewhere on each campus you are looking at to make sure it can be your safe place.

Why is a college education important to you?
Other than a couple members of my family, I will be one of the first people to finish college, and I want to show that I can do it too. No giving up for me.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
My planner, 100%. I am really bad with technology, so I use a physical planner. It helps when I cannot remember what I need to do at the moment

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I read the emails sent out by the school and by the Northern Star.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Listen to music. I carry drumsticks in my backpack at all times, so if I am stressed or just need to turn my brain off, I can put on my headphones and drum.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work at the child care center here on campus. I have worked there for about two years now. Some activities I enjoy are listening/playing music, playing video games and learning languages (I am learning Mandarin).