Katie Wargowsky

Katie Wargowsky is a meteorology major from Joliet, IL

Hometown: Joliet, IL

High School: Joliet Central 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 a merit scholarship for all four years, and I received the meteorology fund scholarship this last semester through the Department of Earth, Atmosphere and Environment. This financial support has impacted my experience greatly, and I am beyond grateful for the support. It has allowed me to lower my hours at work to be able to focus more on classes and get involved in organizations.

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 wanted to be a meteorologist, and I am pursuing my dream as a meteorology major!

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am a meteorology major. I chose this because I have been fascinated with weather since I was a kid. It all started from a phobia of tornadoes and severe weather, but it turned into a passion.

Have you conducted an internship?
Yes

How did you get your internship, and where was it?
I got accepted to participate in the ICECHIP project this summer from May 14 to June 29. I believe that I got this internship because of my grades, my dedication to meteorology and the relationships I have formed since starting at NIU. ICECHIP took place in the Great Plains.

How did your internship help prepare you for your career?
Not only did it provide me with invaluable field research experience, but it also gave me an opportunity to network and meet some of the people I have looked up to in this field. I learned ways to improve my communication, leadership and confidence in my knowledge.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I really enjoyed the sense of community I was met with, not only at a university level, but also in my major.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Usually by bonding during challenging class projects, in student organizations or by running into classmates around campus.

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 served on the NIU student chapter of the American Meteorological Society executive board for three years and had the opportunity to network, attend conferences and learn how to lead a team.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
Meteorology professors made me feel extremely safe and supported during my time here at NIU. Specifically, meteorology professors Dr. Allison Michaelis and Dr. Victor Gensini.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Dr. Gensini has been my favorite professor so far. He taught me synoptic meteorology my sophomore year, and that class was extremely beneficial to my career. Also, he is extremely supportive and pushes me and other students to succeed. He is also the meteorology advisor, so he was one of the first faces I saw at NIU.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly not only creates a beneficial relationship with classmates and the professor, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the material.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I love the Davis Hall fountain garden because of its proximity to my classes in Davis. It is such a beautiful place in the spring and fall to work on homework. Also, Cast Iron Coffee has become one of my favorite places near campus to get a coffee and work on homework or meet a friend.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Attend a college you are comfortable with. You don’t have to leave home if you aren’t ready. You will get the same degree wherever you go, so go where you will be comfortable!

Why is a college education important to you?
In meteorology, it is practically impossible to succeed without a degree. It is extremely important to be educated on the atmosphere before you go out into the field. Also, it is extremely important to network with professors, professionals and other students.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I have a planner that I use, along with a calendar to keep myself organized.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Usually through social media and my student email.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I will go out with my friends, go home for the weekend or clean my space in order to relax or recharge.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I worked at Starbucks for a number of years, but I was fortunate enough to be able to put in my notice and attend the ICECHIP field project this summer from May 14 to June 29. In my free time, I enjoy storm chasing, spending time with friends and family, and photography.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I will never forget the incredible experience that ICECHIP was this summer. I will forever be grateful for the lifelong friends, field research experience and learning opportunities it provided.