Jennifer Wells

Jennifer Wells is an online nursing (RN-B.S.) major from Chicago, IL

Hometown: Chicago, IL

High School: Young Magnet High School

Year: Expected graduation: fall 2025

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 nurse, but in high school I had an accounting teacher I adored who convinced me to go into accounting. I attended NIU and received a B.S. in accountancy and an MBA. After a 20-year career in business where I did not feel fulfilled, I went back to school to become a nurse.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am in the online nursing program (RN-B.S.), furthering my career in nursing.

What has your experience as an online student at NIU been like?
It has been great. I really appreciate how the online advisors complete registration for you.

What has benefited you most as an online student?
The flexibility of online learning has been really beneficial. I am a busy wife and mom, and my studies needed to be able to fit into my life.

What is your number one tip for students thinking about online education?
You get out what you put in. Go for it!

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
This is my third time here at NIU. I am technically an undergraduate and an alumna! I feel the same sense of community I felt when I first stepped foot on campus way back in 1998.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
I have not yet connected outside of class, but I know if I need to there are many options to do so.

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 involved with the Online Student Advisory Committee.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I have felt supported in every department I have encountered.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
Lynn Dykstra, who taught NURS 432: Leadership in Nursing. She took an interest in me, and every student, on a personal level and met us where we were. She also challenged me to dig deeper and harness my own strengths to become a more effective leader.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
NIU will deliver on all of its promises to you as a student. All you have to do is accept the offer.

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education has opened many doors for me and satisfied my perpetual quest for new knowledge.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Stay organized. Make sure your friends and family understand and support the commitment you are making to yourself. Break each assignment into smaller, achievable goals and work at it until complete.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I read my email often.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to sleep, read, travel and spend time with my family.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am an ICU nurse at my local hospital. I enjoy traveling, DIY projects and line dancing.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I met my husband in 1998 at Grant North 8D. We have been married for 20 years and are parents to four sons!