Zander Ward

Zander Ward is a transfer middle level teaching and learning major from DeKalb, IL

Hometown: DeKalb, IL

High School: DeKalb High School

Year: Expected graduation: Spring 2027

Transfer from: Kishwaukee College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
My mother went here, and I wanted to still live in Dekalb.

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received a transfer scholarship when I came from Kishwaukee College. I also got a legacy scholarship from my mom being an alumna. These scholarships have helped me pay for school and be able to afford to live on my own.

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 always wanted to be a scientist, and my original major was chemistry. As I got further into the program, I found myself questioning why I cared about this high-level science. Turns out I don't care about the high-level science. What brings me joy is when I can explain a cool science topic to a kid and see them smile and understand it. Or to get kids excited to mix chemicals and see what happens. The joy I get from science is being able to share it with others, and teaching is the best way for me to express it.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am a middle level teaching and learning major because of my experience with that age group. I've coached middle schoolers for the past couple of years, and it's an age group I enjoy. You can start to treat them kind of like adults, but they also still joke around like kids.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
All of the support staff members are so helpful. Anytime I have a problem with my schedule or with something in a building, someone is always willing to help. I grew up in DeKalb my whole life and never realized how much NIU does in the community.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I made many new friends in the middle level teaching cohort. Everyone is super supportive of one another and always willing to help. We all get along and have productive discussions in class about different controversial teaching topics.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The advising team in the College of Education has always been terrific. When I changed majors, I had lots of anxiety that they helped relieve by being so helpful and understanding. They knew what I needed and helped me every step of the way.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Randi White, who teaches MLTL 302. She's helped me so much with developing confidence in myself. This semester being the first in the classroom, I was very nervous to start. Randi always said that I'm a natural teacher and to not be worried. Hearing that from a former teacher gave me a different level of confidence that I took with me into my clinical. It helped me be successful and get great experience. She also does a great job holding students accountable. She's perfect to teach this class because of those reasons. She'll give you confidence and preparation for clinicals that will carry over to the rest of your teaching career.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
The discussions we have in class are invaluable. I've learned more about myself and how to be a better teacher from discussions.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love to walk or run by the East Lagoon. I've been running around the lagoon and the rest of campus since I was a young boy. I ran cross county in DeKalb from about 8 years old until I was 20. I'd run all over this town, but my favorite would always be the lagoon and the castle. I just loved the nature and architecture.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Stay local. A degree from NIU is not different enough than a degree from Northwestern to be worth the money. Every student should make college as cheap as possible for themselves. I went the community college route for two years, and it saved me so much money and got me ready for a bigger university.

Why is a college education important to you?
I consider myself a lifelong learner. The moment we stop learning we start forgetting. I believe people should constantly be looking for ways to better themselves and their lives, and college is a perfect example.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Communication is the best thing. Everyone knows college is stressful; I just advocate for myself and communicate if I am not going to get something done or will miss an event. The people in my life are very understanding and patient, but the more a person communicates the better they are at managing their time.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I hear a lot from my friends or in class. I also hear about certain events in my email.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I spend time with my friends or family. We like to be active, so going golfing or hiking. I also like to sit on the couch and watch really any sport at the end of a long week or day.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I currently work as a supervisor for Menards as my part-time job. I love to be outside and golf and run. I like to watch sports as well.