Lizzy Small

Lizzy Small is a transfer biological sciences graduate student from DeKalb. IL

Hometown: DeKalb. IL

Class of: 2024

Transfer from: Kishwaukee College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
The amazing environmental studies program.

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 wasn't exactly sure what career I wanted to pursue; however, from a young age I was passionate about wildlife and the future of our planet. With the help of my mentors, advisors and fellow environmental studies students, I took my passion and turned it into my dream career.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I'm currently pursuing a master’s degree in biological sciences. I had amazing, hands-on research experiences as an undergraduate student at NIU. These experiences inspired me to continue my education at NIU.

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.
My research project examines the central position small mammals hold in a prairie food web. Small mammals are often central in food webs, making this study extremely important to gauge the health of the ecosystem. My research also analyzes the role land-management techniques have on the diet of small mammals. This work is rewarding to me, as I feel my research will make a difference in the restoration of endangered prairie ecosystems in Illinois.

How has conducting research strengthened your education and experience at NIU?
Absolutely. Gaining hands-on research experience is essential to my field of work. I have had amazing opportunities to conduct my own research and to assist with multiple other projects. Through each experience, I have developed research skills that will take me far in my career.

How will your research experience help you in the future?
I have developed several desirable skills to have in my field, including project planning, literature reviews, data collection and management, volunteer coordinating, conducting analyses, writing a scientific paper and mentoring an undergraduate student.

Who at NIU has been important to your success doing research and why?
My advisors Dr. Holly Jones and Dr. Heather Bergan-Roller have been incredible mentors. They are both understanding and efficient and always encourage me to do my best work. My fellow students have also been so encouraging and helpful. I could not do this research alone — it takes a village! When we help each other out, it is a win for all of us and a win for science.

What advice would you give to an incoming student as it relates to research at NIU?
Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty! Research can be intimidating but remember to speak up and volunteer to assist with research any chance you get. The more new things you try, the easier it will be to find where you belong.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The number of opportunities for research during courses or under faculty guidance. You can gain so much experience by getting involved in one of the numerous projects. If one project isn't the best fit for you, you can try something else.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have made lifelong friendships with my fellow classmates and lab mates. We always support one another with our studies.

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 was on the Biology Graduate Student Association (BGSA) board, which was an amazing chance to be involved in the biology department and contribute to improvements that will benefit current and future students. I am a mentor to undergraduate student Amber Platt through the Office of Student Engagement and Experiential Learning (OSEEL). I have gained new skills in mentorship, and it is rewarding to help students realize and reach their potential through research experience.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The environmental studies department is amazing at supporting their students, offering and facilitating opportunities, and highlighting student success.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Some incredible professors I have had are Dr. Holly Jones (Conservation Biology) and Dr. Jennifer Koop (Birds and Mammals). These course subjects are aligned with my personal interests, but they make learning the material so fun. They work hard on their syllabi to set realistic objectives and expectations for the course. They are flexible and understanding while being able to maintain authority in the classroom. Through sharing their personal stories and career paths, they inspire students to work hard and reach their full potential.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Yes, I always attend class whenever I can. I prefer to be in person for class meetings as this helps me absorb the information presented and organize my to-do list. I would not have been nearly as successful in my courses if I didn't attend class regularly.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
One of my favorite areas includes MLK Commons, the library and the Holmes Student Center. This area is central to campus and offers many dining options and study locations.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
When you are right out of high school, I would encourage you to check out your local community college or university. It can be daunting to find the right school, especially if you haven't decided on a career path yet. Take some time to think and gain experience first, it will help you decide what is the right path for you.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is more than a piece of paper, it's all of the experience you have gained to make you into the person you want to be. It's such an important time in a person's life to figure out how they will make a difference and what they will be remembered for. My education reminds me of who I am and where I come from and prepares me to shape my future.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I prioritize by making a list of tasks and ranking them in their importance. There are some tasks that need to be completed that same day, and there are tasks I can complete in the next few days. It takes practice to figure out what to prioritize, but make sure the things that are truly important to you are at the top of your list.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I check my NIU email for daily updates.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
Humans need time to rest, and we shouldn't feel bad for taking that time. I always make time to relax with my dog on the couch or in the backyard. It's so peaceful because she can't talk, so we just sit, and I get to clear my head for a while.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work at a nature center that is part of the St. Charles Park District. I plan and facilitate educational programs, including field trips, boy/girl scout programs and summer camps for kids of all ages. This work combines my love of nature and education. I get to pass on everything I have learned about wildlife and our planet, and it's such a rewarding feeling.