Erin Uhrine

Erin Uhrine is an early childhood education major from Crystal Lake, IL

Hometown: Crystal Lake, IL

High School: Prairie Ridge High School

Year: Expected graduation: spring 2026

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received the NIU merit scholarship for my academic achievements in high school, which has been incredibly helpful. This scholarship provides a sum of money every semester, easing some of the financial burdens associated with my college education. I truly appreciate that NIU recognized my hard work and dedication through this scholarship, and it has motivated me to maintain my academic performance. The support from the scholarship has allowed me to focus more on my studies and extracurricular activities without added financial stress, helping me make the most of my college experience.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Growing up, I wanted to be a second-grade teacher because I enjoy working with young children and helping them learn. I have personal experience with accommodations in reading and math, which has given me a better understanding of how students learn. This has made me even more passionate about creating a supportive classroom where all students can succeed. I am pursuing this goal by majoring in education and working toward becoming a teacher. My experiences have shaped my desire to help students build confidence in their abilities, just as my teachers did for me.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is early childhood education with special education approval. I will be getting my ESL endorsement as well. When I was growing up, I always wanted to help others, even if it was in small ways. One of my best friends, Summer, who has Down syndrome, was a big part of that. I would help her on the playground, create games so she could be included when others wouldn’t and support her with reading as we grew up. Those experiences shaped my desire to become a teacher because I realized how much I enjoyed helping others succeed. That’s why I chose to major in early childhood education with special education — I want to create a welcoming and inclusive classroom where every child feels supported. I am also earning my ESL endorsement to assist multilingual learners better. My passion for teaching comes from my lifelong desire to put others before myself, and I am excited to help young students learn and grow.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
One of the most pleasantly surprising aspects of my experience at NIU has been how much I’ve grown as a leader and as a person. I was more of an introvert in high school, but I pushed myself to get involved during my first year of college. Becoming a community advisor in Patterson Hall has been an enriching experience — I love helping others, making connections and being part of such a supportive team. I also joined the College of Education (COE) Student Academic Equity Committee, where I found a passion for fostering student belonging and advocating for students with accommodations. This eventually led me to become the committee president my sophomore year, an opportunity I never expected but truly valued. Additionally, I’ve been honored to serve as a representative for COE undergraduates on the Provost Student Advisory Committee. Academically, I’ve worked hard to maintain a 4.00 GPA and have been a dean’s list student throughout my time at NIU. Looking back, I never imagined how much I would challenge myself, but I’m grateful for the experiences and opportunities that have helped me grow.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Yes, I have definitely connected with other students to study, build friendships and create a sense of community. As a community advisor, I’ve had the opportunity to study with my residents and support them academically. I’m also planning to host a study group night where my residents can come together, mingle, collaborate on coursework and help each other with their studies. Beyond academics, I’ve built strong connections with my residents through fun activities like movie nights. Recently, we watched the “Twilight” series together, and it was a blast! These experiences have made my time at NIU even more meaningful, and I love fostering a supportive and engaging environment where my residents can succeed both academically and socially.

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?
Yes, I have been actively involved in several student organizations and extracurricular activities at NIU, which have greatly enriched my experience as a Huskie. I served as the Student Academic Equity Committee president, where I worked to promote student belonging and advocate for those with accommodations. Additionally, I am the College of Education undergraduate representative on the Provost’s Student Advisory Committee, allowing me to voice student concerns and contribute to university initiatives. I am also a member of NEA Aspiring Educators, which has allowed me to connect with future teachers and gain valuable professional development. As an NIU Rising Scholar, I have had the chance to engage in academic and leadership opportunities that have further shaped my growth. Additionally, I serve as a student representative on the Baccalaureate Council, where I help review and shape undergraduate academic policies. These experiences have strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my network and deepened my connection to the NIU community, making my time here incredibly fulfilling.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The Disability Resource Center (DRC) and Housing and Residential Services at NIU have been crucial in helping me feel safe, supported and successful. The DRC has been instrumental in ensuring I have the accommodations I need to succeed academically, particularly in reading and math. Their support has allowed me to focus on my studies and feel confident in my ability to perform to the best of my abilities. The housing department, through my role as a community advisor in Patterson Hall, has provided me with a sense of belonging and a strong support network. The training and guidance I’ve received from the housing department have helped me become a better leader and create an inclusive and welcoming environment for my residents. Both departments have played a key role in my success at NIU, making my experience more enriching and fulfilling.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor is Michelle Sands from the Department of Special and Early Education. She is always there for her students, offering incredible support and guidance. During my clinical experience, she gave me amazing advice that helped me navigate challenges and provided valuable insights into how to best support students with accommodations. She truly goes above and beyond for her students, always making herself available to answer questions and provide assistance. One of the things I really appreciate about her is that she organized a study group for early childhood education students who need to take the content test to become certified teachers. This extra effort shows how much she cares about her students’ success and is a testament to her dedication to helping us reach our goals. Her commitment to her students has made a lasting impact on me, and I’m grateful for the support she continues to provide.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has been incredibly beneficial for me in several ways. It has allowed me to stay on top of course material, engage in meaningful discussions and ask questions that help deepen my understanding. Being present in class also allows me to connect with my professors and peers, which has been invaluable for building relationships and gaining different perspectives. Consistent attendance has helped me maintain a strong academic record, enabling me to absorb the content, participate actively and stay prepared for assignments and exams. Moreover, it has fostered a sense of responsibility and discipline, which are crucial for my academic and professional growth. Regular class attendance has supported my success and made me feel more connected to the NIU community.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is the East Lagoon. I’m drawn to it because it’s such a peaceful and calming place. I love walking around the water, especially with the beautiful purple flowers that bloom nearby. The area provides a quiet escape where I can reflect, relax and recharge between classes. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature, making it a place I often visit when I need a break from the busyness of campus life. The serene atmosphere helps me feel centered and connected to the beauty of the campus.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
If you’re researching colleges to apply to, my advice would be to consider factors beyond just academic programs. While your major is necessary, consider the campus environment, the student culture and available resources. Look for colleges that offer firm support systems, like tutoring, career services and student organizations, as these can significantly enhance your college experience. Additionally, consider the location, campus size and extracurricular activities to determine if they align with your interests and values. Take the time to visit campuses, talk to current students and ask questions about opportunities for involvement and student support. Finally, trust your instincts — choose a school where you can grow academically and personally.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because it represents more than just earning a degree — it’s a way for me to prove to myself that I am capable of overcoming challenges. Despite facing difficulties in school, I’ve always believed in my strength to push through obstacles. Whether it’s financial struggles, navigating friendships or dealing with family issues, I want to show myself that none of these challenges will stand in the way of my pursuit of a good education. Earning a degree will not only be a personal triumph, but also a reminder that with determination and resilience, I can achieve anything I set my mind to.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
To manage my time effectively, I use a few strategies that help me stay organized and on top of my responsibilities. First, I create flashcards with the due dates for all of my classes, which helps me visually track important deadlines. At the beginning of each semester, I make it a priority to start projects early — usually within the first two weeks — so that I don’t become overwhelmed later in the semester. I also make a point of attending office hours regularly to get additional support from my professors and ask any questions I may have. When I need clarification or assistance, I don’t hesitate to email my professors, ensuring that I stay on top of any challenges or concerns. These strategies have helped me manage my workload and stay focused throughout the semester.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
As a community advisor (CA), staying informed about events and services on campus is one of my responsibilities. To ensure that my residents are up to date, I create a community calendar each month that includes important events, due dates and campus services. This calendar serves as a reference for my residents so they can easily stay informed about what’s happening on campus. I also keep an eye on announcements, emails and flyers from various campus organizations, ensuring I can share relevant information with my residents and encourage them to participate in campus activities and take advantage of available services.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I enjoy spending time with my residents by watching movies together. It’s a great way to unwind and build connections. I also take pride in decorating bulletin boards each month, using different movies I enjoy as well as ones that my residents like. I put a lot of effort into making the boards not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, ensuring they include useful resources and information. This creative process allows me to express myself while also providing something beneficial for my residents. It’s a fun and fulfilling way to relax, recharge and contribute to the community I’m a part of.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
Some of my hobbies include working on my bulletin boards, which I really enjoy because it allows me to express my creativity and make something both visually appealing and useful for others. I also love traveling whenever I can. Whether it’s to new places or familiar spots, it gives me a chance to relax, explore and gain new experiences. Another hobby I enjoy is baking; it’s a fun and rewarding activity that allows me to be creative in the kitchen and share treats with friends and family. These hobbies help me unwind and bring balance to my busy schedule.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I have been a 4.00 dean’s list student since my freshman year!