Nathan Scheibe

Nathan Scheibe is a sport management major from Hoffman Estates, IL

Hometown: Hoffman Estates, IL

Year: Anticipated graduation year: 2024

Major: Sport Management

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 little, I wanted to make it to the National Hockey League as a player. Now, I am still pursuing my NHL dream, but in an operations role as either a scout or coach. Sport management is my major, and I intend on making the NHL through that.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I chose to major in sport management because of my love and passion for hockey, and I feel I can best apply my knowledge of the game while working for a professional team.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The small-town feeling. Everyone seems so down-to-earth here, and it never seemed daunting, even when I first arrived.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
During group projects, I would first email my peers. As we got to know each other, we began to hang out more and became good friends.

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 peer coach here at NIU. I feel taking on this position will help fulfill my goal to help as many people as I can and achieve a higher sense of self. 

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor so far has been David Serowka. He taught the introductory course for sport management, LESM 201. He showed me how to build and maintain a professional identity, while also going over the essential elements of sport management. I often use techniques and skills learned in his class in my everyday life, including professionalism, communication and viewing sport in a more in-depth light. 

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
As I commute to campus as opposed to living in the dorms, I spend the most time in Anderson Hall. The feeling of sport is always in the air, and I'm surrounded by people who love sport as well.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Don't judge a book by its cover. Consider all of your options and weigh the pros and cons. If you decide on a school based on looks, chances are you won't be happy with your choice. Do visits, network with instructors and professors there, and try to picture yourself at the school. You'll get that certain feeling when you know something is just right.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Manage my time more effectively and prioritize my day. Schoolwork is the No. 1 priority on my day-to-day schedule. I have a calendar where I write all my assignments down during the week, and as I complete them, I cross them off. Work before play—but always take mental breaks, as doing too much at once can prove to be detrimental.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Anything hockey. Whether playing, analyzing or watching hockey, it’s always on my mind during my free time. It is what I want to do with my life, so the fact that my future profession is my current escape from the world will hopefully lead me to great things in life.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I want to help the College of Education continue to grow their peer education program and Educators Rising. Both are great opportunities I'm proud to be a part of!