Brenda Schurrer

Brenda Schurrer is an English major from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

High School: Wheaton North

Year: Expected graduation: Fall 2025

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
During my time at Northern Illinois University, I’ve been fortunate to receive several scholarships and grants that have made it possible for me to continue my education and pursue opportunities like studying abroad. My awards have included the Dr. Wagner Medieval Studies Scholarship, the Abe Chait Huskie Pride Scholarship, the Gurley English School Fund Scholarship, the Rosalie Hewitt Scholarship, the Winters English Scholarship, the BR James Merit Scholarship, and the Angelo and Linda Capua History Scholarship, all of which recognized my academic excellence, commitment to the humanities and strong performance within the English and medieval studies programs. In addition to these, I’ve consistently received the Illinois MAP Grant and the Federal Pell Grant. For my study abroad program in Rome, I also received the Hagelman Scholarship, the Scholar Travel Grant, the Federal Pell Grant through NIU and the AIFS Foundation Taylor Foundation Scholarship through AIFS. These awards specifically supported my international education goals and helped make studying abroad financially feasible. This financial support has had a tremendous impact on my experience at NIU. As a returning adult student balancing full-time work with full-time studies, these scholarships have allowed me to focus on my academic goals without constant financial stress. They made it possible for me to take additional courses each summer, accelerate my degree progress and fully engage in enriching opportunities like the Honors Program and my study abroad in Rome. More than anything, these awards have given me confidence that my hard work and dedication are recognized and valued.

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 a secretary. I know that might sound simple, but my mom worked in an office as a paralegal/legal assistant, and that’s what I thought her job was. I loved the idea of working in an office, being organized and helping people, just like she did. I did follow that path, and I’m now a paralegal myself. But I didn’t go back to school to move up in my career; I went back because I wanted to learn for my own fulfillment. I’ve always loved history and literature, especially anything related to the medieval period, and studying those subjects has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I originally chose to major in English because I was drawn to courses on Greek and Roman mythology and Arthurian literature, which really captured my interest. I also felt that an English degree would complement my career as a paralegal by strengthening my writing and analytical skills. Once I started at NIU, I discovered the medieval studies concentration and immediately knew it was the perfect fit for me. After taking several medieval history courses, I decided to add a history minor as well. Over time, I’ve found myself gravitating even more toward history, and if I decide to continue my education beyond my bachelor’s degree, it will likely be to pursue a degree in history.

Have you conducted your own research through Research Rookies, Honors capstones or theses or any other faculty-guided research opportunity?
Yes

Tell us about the research you are doing and why it interests you.
For my Honors Capstone project in ENGL 491, I researched and wrote a biographical study on Professor Raluca L. Radulescu of Bangor University, a leading scholar of Arthurian and medieval literature. My project examined her academic contributions and the ways her work bridges traditional and contemporary literary analysis, particularly in how she explores gender and power in medieval texts. I chose this topic because I’ve always been drawn to medieval studies, and I was inspired by how modern scholars like Professor Radulescu reinterpret classic works to keep them meaningful for today’s readers. The project allowed me to combine my interests in literature, history and research, while highlighting the achievements of a major female scholar in my field.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Conducting research at NIU has greatly strengthened both my education and personal growth. Through my Honors Capstone project, I learned how to engage deeply with scholarly sources, synthesize complex information and present my own critical analysis with confidence. Researching Professor Raluca L. Radulescu’s work in medieval and Arthurian literature taught me how modern scholarship builds on centuries of tradition, and it gave me a deeper appreciation for the research process itself. It also enhanced my ability to work independently, think critically and write with clarity and purpose, skills that have enriched not only my academic experience, but also my professional life as a paralegal.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
My research experience has strengthened my ability to think critically, organize complex information and communicate ideas clearly, all of which are invaluable in both academic and professional settings. Completing my Honors Capstone taught me how to conduct independent research from start to finish, manage long-term projects and stay motivated through self-discipline and curiosity. These skills will continue to serve me well in my legal career and in any future graduate studies I may pursue in history or medieval studies.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
Professor Nicole Clifton has been instrumental to my success. Her guidance and encouragement helped me shape my Honors Capstone project into something meaningful and rigorous. She consistently challenged me to think more deeply about my interpretations while supporting my creative direction, which made me a stronger researcher and writer. I also owe a great deal to Professor Valerie Garver, whose medieval history courses inspired much of my academic focus. Her teaching deepened my understanding of the Middle Ages and encouraged me to pursue interdisciplinary connections between literature and history. Together, their mentorship fostered both my confidence and curiosity as a scholar. I also appreciate the broader NIU honors community, which provided the structure and motivation to take on a project of this scale with confidence.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Start exploring research early and don’t be afraid to follow what genuinely interests you, even if it’s a niche topic. The professors at NIU are incredibly supportive and want to see students succeed, especially when they show curiosity and initiative. Research can seem intimidating at first, but once you find a topic that excites you, the process becomes deeply rewarding. Take advantage of the resources NIU offers through the Honors Program, the library and faculty mentorship; they make all the difference.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how supportive and accessible NIU’s professors are. Even in online or large classes, they take the time to get to know students and encourage independent thinking.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Most of my connections have come through class discussions, group projects and shared interests in medieval topics. I’ve met several classmates through the Honors Program and my history and literature courses who share my enthusiasm for research and writing. As an older returning student, I wasn’t necessarily looking to make friends 30 years younger than me, but I’ve still found genuine connections with students who share my curiosity and passion for learning. Those interactions have made my classes more engaging and reminded me that education truly bridges generations.

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’m a member of Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society, Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society and the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). These organizations have encouraged me to set clear academic and personal goals, while connecting with other motivated students who share my interests. They’ve helped me grow in confidence and leadership, especially when presenting my research and engaging with the NIU academic community.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The University Honors Program has been my main source of academic support, offering guidance, flexibility and encouragement. The English department and history department have also been wonderful; professors are approachable and truly invested in student success. I never needed to use them, but the student counseling services and Disability Resource Center provide a safety net for those needing mental health or accessibility support, which I deeply appreciated knowing was available.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
As a transfer student, the Transfer Center was extremely helpful when I first arrived. They made the transition smooth by helping me understand transfer credit and degree requirements. Academic advising has also been instrumental in keeping me on track toward graduation.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
The Honors Capstone has probably been the most impactful opportunity. It allowed me to create an independent research biography of Professor Raluca L. Radulescu, blending my interests in English and history. The experience strengthened my research, writing and presentation skills, while showing me how meaningful self-directed study can be. I’ve also appreciated the ability to register for classes early as an honors student; it made balancing work, school and life much easier. In addition, the honors engaged experiences have been a wonderful way to connect my coursework to broader, real-world experiences beyond the classroom.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I love the freedom to explore topics that genuinely interest me and the ability to design projects that align with my passions. The Honors Program makes learning feel personal and purposeful, and the faculty’s encouragement creates an environment where curiosity is celebrated.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Two professors stand out. Professor Nicole Clifton guided me through my Honors Capstone and continually challenged me to refine my research and writing. Professor Valerie Garver, who taught several of my medieval history courses, inspired my love for medieval studies and encouraged me to think critically about gender, power and society in the Middle Ages. Both have been instrumental to my academic success.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly keeps me engaged and accountable. Even in asynchronous courses, staying on top of discussions and materials helps me retain information and make meaningful connections between topics. It has also shown professors that I’m committed and respectful of their time and effort.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I enjoy relaxing outdoors by the lagoon near Altgeld Hall, especially on sunny days. Altgeld Hall has cool Gothic “castle” architecture and is definitely one of NIU’s most iconic buildings. I like to bring my camera and take photos; the reflections on the water, the trees and the historic building all make for a calming and beautiful backdrop. It’s a spot where I can decompress yet still feel close to the heart of campus life. I also love Founders Memorial Library, especially the quiet study areas on the upper floors. It’s a peaceful, inspiring place to focus on research and writing. There’s something motivating about being surrounded by books and the soft hum of other students working toward their goals.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Look for a college that values you as an individual, not just as a number. NIU stands out because the professors genuinely care and there are opportunities for every kind of learner. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek help and take advantage of resources; your education is what you make of it.

Why is a college education important to you?
I returned to college for self-fulfillment, not just career advancement. I wanted to challenge myself, explore my love of history and literature, and prove that it’s never too late to learn. Earning my degree has given me a sense of accomplishment and confidence that carries into every part of my life.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Balancing everything takes structure and flexibility. I use detailed planners and color-coded calendars and set aside specific blocks of time for schoolwork. I also remind myself to take breaks and maintain boundaries between work and study, so I don’t burn out. And when all that careful planning fails, I fall back on the time-honored tradition of late-night study sessions that somehow stretch into the wee hours of the morning.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I check my NIU email regularly, follow updates from the Honors Program and read the Huskie Spotlight newsletters. I also stay connected through professors and classmates who share opportunities.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work full time as a paralegal at a law firm specializing in estate planning and real estate. My work involves drafting legal documents, coordinating with clients and managing complex cases, which has strengthened my attention to detail and organization. Outside of work, I enjoy studying medieval history, creating fantasy-inspired art and designs, and building my small creative business, Schurrtz LLC, which combines AI art on T-shirts and other products.