Ellenor Zimmerman

Ellenor Zimmerman is a health sciences major from Dixon, IL

Hometown: Dixon, IL

High School: Dixon High School

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

Transfer from: Sauk Valley Community College 

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
For its affordability and proximity to home.

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received the Honors Excellence Award based on my active engagement in the Honors Program and my academic performance. The financial support from this scholarship has helped me to continue pursuing my undergraduate degree debt-free!

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
When I was little, I never knew what I wanted to be when I grew up. Even in high school, I still did not know what that answer would be for sure. I always knew, however, that I wanted to give back to others and leave a positive impact on my community, which led me to major in health sciences. I am pursuing this degree with the end goal of becoming a physical therapist.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am majoring in health sciences with an emphasis in pre-physical therapy. I chose this career path because I want to be able to help people live their lives to the highest quality.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
I have enjoyed how small my class sizes have been during my time here. The class sizes have been comparable to the community college I transferred from, which provided me with an easy transition to NIU.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
There are opportunities to connect with others around every turn here on campus. I have met people who I really connect with from just having casual conversations before and after classes that we share. I have also enjoyed meeting new people through campus events, such as through the Honors Program.

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?
Outside of the Honors Program, I have recently joined Pre-Physical Therapy Club and Circle K International. This semester I am trying to make more meaningful connections with my classmates and the community, which is what these activities add to my experience at NIU.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
I have utilized numerous resources presented by the Honors Program that have helped me to feel more in tune with my school and my peers.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
I have not used many transfer-specific resources, but I know that there are plenty I could use if I needed to.

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
I attended the career fair prep workshop, which was very valuable in preparing how to speak to potential employers and put my best foot forward when the time comes. I also regularly meet with the honors advising staff to make sure I am meeting the requirements before graduation.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
I enjoy the opportunities within the Honors Program to take my learning experience to the next level in and out of the classroom.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor is Kara Coffman. I have had her for both anatomy and physiology this past school year. She teaches these complex subjects in a way that is very easy to understand and interesting at the same time. Additionally, she is very understanding when it comes to her students, which is always appreciated in a professor.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class is the best way to immerse yourself in the content of the course and get the most out of it. Attending class enhances the learning experience greatly because you’re surrounded with like-minded classmates. When I am in the classroom, I am in a learning mindset, and I am able to give my undivided attention to the professor.

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 went almost every day in the spring to see the baby geese. I enjoy this spot because it is peaceful, and I like seeing others enjoying their time outdoors around this area as well.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Look for schools that align with your personal and academic goals and make decisions based on what will be best for you in the future.

Why is a college education important to you?
My college education is important to me because it is allowing me to get the background information and experience I need in order to be successful in my anticipated graduate program and eventually in my career.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
Finding balance as a college student can be difficult, but I manage my time by understanding that while all aspects of my life are important, not everything is a priority. Taking the time to focus on what is most important to me in the moment is how I manage time between everything on my plate.

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I always check my email for updates on events or specific opportunities around campus. I also frequently visit Huskie Hub and Suitable to check out what’s coming up.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax, I like to watch TV and go shopping. Sometimes I like to go for walks around campus while listening to music or a podcast.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I work as a phlebotomist at BioLife Plasma Services, where people come to donate their plasma. In my free time I like to go to the gym, try new recipes and visit my family.