Sep 7, 2020
When you take off your mask, it’s easier for everyone else to do it. Our culture is so mask-driven. Imagine an office with no mask.
Ram Dass
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When you take off your mask, it’s easier for everyone else to do it. Our culture is so mask-driven. Imagine an office with no mask.
Ram Dass
Meet Liz Patrykus, an elementary education major, reading and science minor and recent graduate from Waupun, Wisc. Liz is a Superior Edge graduate as well. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
Liz: During my first tour of campus, it immediately felt like home. Everyone was so welcoming and willing to help out.
What are you involved with on campus?
Liz: I worked for the Rec Sports at the Wildcat Fit Zone and the PEIF. I also was involved in SLFP, Superior Edge, Chi Alpha, and Young Life.
Of your activities on- or off-campus (residence life, student orgs, internships, etc.), what has been the most rewarding and why?
Liz: I loved spending time with friends at the lake or local coffee shops.
What does “be Northern” mean to you?
Liz: To me be Northern means you should embrace every opportunity that comes your way and take chances. Within the student body at NMU you’ll find a wide variety of hobbies represent, who knows what new things you may end up liking.
What are your hopes or plans after graduation?
Liz: I plan to start a career as a teacher in Wisconsin.
Further comments about your NMU experience?
Liz: It’s been a fantastic 4.5 years that have helped me grow as a person in many ways.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Liz: I had to complete my student teaching 100% online. It was something I never imagined doing but I’m so thankful for the unique opportunity. I learned so many new skills that I may have otherwise missed out on.
Meet Sabrina Kaminski, a psychology major, human behavior minor from Rochester, Mich. Sabrina is a Superior Edge graduate as well. We asked her a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
Sabrina: I wanted to be far from home so I wasn't tempted to go home all the time and to go somewhere I didn't know many people. Once I toured Northern, I knew right away that this was the perfect fit for me especially because of MQT and all it has to offer.
What are you involved with on campus?
Sabrina: Ripple Effect, the housing and residence life staff development team, and I am an RA.
Outside of school, what do you enjoy?
Sabrina: As cliché as it may sound but being outside. Just last winter, I learned how to ski and made the winters much more enjoyable being able to find a niche I really enjoy. I also really love going for walks and hikes all around MQT. I especially love summer and spending my days at the beach.
Of your activities on- or off-campus, what has been the most rewarding and why?
Sabrina: Being an RA has been by far the most rewarding. I have grown in ways I could have never imagined but most importantly I hope I made an impact on others lives. I always put a fourth effort in maintaining an empathetic energy by being socially aware of diversities such as gender, sexual orientation, disabilities, race, and socioeconomic status, etc.
What are your hopes or plans after graduation?
Sabrina: I plan on taking the winter semester off and apply for jobs as a resident director. I hope by next fall I will be working as a resident director at some university and work towards my master's degree in student affairs.
Why do you wear a mask?
Sabrina: I wear a mask not only for myself but most importantly I wear it for others. I, of course, don't want to get COVID but in all honesty, I'm healthy and I would probably be fine. I wear a mask to protect those that aren't as fortunate that are at higher risks.
How have you been practicing social distancing?
Sabrina: Throughout the semester, when I would hang out with friends I would encourage the idea of going outside and doing something where we don't feel like we have to be close to one another. Now that I'm home I don't really go and do much. At school, I was living by myself so I wasn't too worried because the only time I had my mask off was when I was by myself in my room. But now that I'm home my family and I are trying to make conscientious efforts to keep each other safe and healthy.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Sabrina: It has made me realize how much we took for granted in prior day-to-day life. Simple things like going to my grandparent's house, no mask, going to the movies, holidays with extended family. A year ago I didn't think much about any of those things and now I think back to how good we had it without even knowing.
Meet Amalea K. Vega, an alumni, Healthcare Consultant, and Alumni Association Board Member from Troy, Mich. We asked Amalea a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?
Amalea: My time at NMU shaped the life I have today. I value all I learned, both in the classroom and the life lessons. The city of Marquette also has a special place in my heart. While my life had led me further away from Northern and from the state of Michigan, I am looking forward to reconnecting. I am most excited to give back to the institution who gave me so much and anticipate all the connections being a part of the board will offer.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy?
Amalea: I have two small children who keep me busy with swim lessons, soccer and family events. Personally, I enjoy working out, reading books, traveling and cooking.
Further comments on your NMU experience:
Amalea: As a part of the Swim and Dive Team, I have so many great moments, events, practices, etc., with my team that come to mind. The friends I talk to every day are ones I made while at Northern, which is a daily reminder of all NMU gave me. I chose to live in Colorado because I wanted an environment, lifestyle activity options and to meet others who like the same, all because I looked to replicate Marquette as much as possible! Memories that come to mind are spending time at Black Rocks, hiking Sugarloaf, riding bikes around Presque Isle and, of course, all the great food in Marquette!
Advice for current students?
Amalea: Enjoy it! It really does go by fast and your responsibilities change so quickly. Soak in all the experiences, the knowledge, the friendships and the community.
What does “be Northern” mean to you?
Amalea: This is a phrase I am hearing more now then I did when I was in Marquette. Hearing it now, I look at this as embodying all that Northern Michigan University stands for and carrying that to my current community and environment. It gives me the sense that I am and can always be connected to NMU and to Marquette; two places that hold a special place in my heart.
Why do you wear a mask?
Amalea: I wear a mask because science tells us it is the best way to keep myself and those around me safe from the spread of COVID-19.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Amalea: This pandemic has slowed my life down. It halted all my business travel (I would travel every other week) as well as forced my family to cancel vacations. We have been disconnected from extended family and friends yet are also so much more connected, in many ways. We look at all creative methods to reach out to those who are not close or in our ‘COVID-19 Bubble.’ We have written more letters, sent more text messages and used videos calls more often. While we are craving a hug from our family and excited for a family vacation, my family is grateful for our health and the time we often take advantage of to just be together.
Meet Morgan Dania Waller, an alumni, Financial Analyst, and Alumni Association Board Member from Chicago, Ill. We asked Morgan a few questions about her NMU experience:
Why did you decide to become an Alumni Association Board Member?
Morgan: I joined NMU Alumni Association to serve, give back and stay connected with the university.
What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?
Morgan: Besides working as a Financial Analyst for S&P Global, I currently serve on numerous boards alongside NMU Alumni Association. I am the Corresponding Secretary for the Chicago Chapter of the National Black MBA Association and Chairman of the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee for Thornton Fractional District #215 in Calumet City.
Outside of work, what do you enjoy?
Morgan: Outside of working, I enjoy hanging out with my sorority sisters who are members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. It’s always a great time when I am with my sisters.
Advice for current students?
Morgan: My advice to current students is to stay well and strong especially during these hard times that we are all facing with the pandemic. Don’t forget you are the future so what you do today only reflects the path you're destined to have. A quote I heard Oprah say that resonated with me was the words from the late Dr. Marther Luther King Jr. “ Not everyone can be famous but, everyone can be great because greatness is determined by service.” -MLK
What does “be Northern” mean to you?
Morgan: Being Northern to me means to be free and open and fearless. If you know Marquette, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit. With it’s beautiful mountain views, fresh water from Lake Superior and cold harsh winters, you have no choice other than to be free to explore, keep an open mind and be fearless in the face of the weather!
Why do you wear a mask?
Morgan: I wear a mask to protect my mother and brother who are both diagnosed with Sickle Cell.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Morgan: Covid-19 has definitely taught me how to take better care of my health, and more importantly tap into mastering my other skills sets. This is the time to learn more about technology, governance, business and economics. In the midst of filling your brain with knowledge, be sure to balance your mental health. Nowadays, it's just as important. Be sure to take breaks in between school and work and try to pick up an interesting hobby.
Meet Noah Beck, a Masters of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs student from Harbor Springs, Mich. We asked Noah a few questions about his NMU experience so far:
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
Noah: I wanted to receive an education where I could develop close relationships with both classmates and professors. With having my program of study, and being located in one of the most beautiful areas I could imagine, NMU was an easy choice.
What's an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
Noah: I was able to get college credit for an internship in my marketing undergrad. It was not required, but strongly encouraged. With this encouragement, I was able to get real experience that also helped me complete my major.
What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?
Noah: I currently work for NMU's Multicultural Office as a Graduate Assistant. It has been so rewarding being able to help students that come into our office looking for personal and professional advice. We provide resources for students on and off campus, so it's been a great experience connecting with students I may have never met in classes.
Outside of school, what do you enjoy?
Noah: The last few months I've learned how much fun it is to walk and bike around Marquette. We have a great bike path that is easy to get to from campus. I've also taken up birding, which Michigan's Upper Peninsula is actually nationally known for. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves the outdoors and immersing themselves in nature!
What does “be Northern” mean to you?
Noah: To me, be Northern is all about the community we have on our campus. Doors are always open and people are always looking forward to saying hi and having a chat. There is a special feeling walking around campus and being able to run into friends or professors that know you by name, not just the class you were in.
What are your plans after graduation?
Noah: I would love to find an institution similar to Northern to work for as an Admissions Counselor or Academic Advisor. I've enjoyed working with students as a Graduate Assistant, and would love to continue doing that after graduation.
Advice for current students?
Noah: Be adventurous! Try something new you've never done before, for all you know that could be your next favorite hobby or activity, and you just need to take that first step!
Why do you wear a mask?
Noah: To keep myself, and my peers, safe while working and studying.
How have you been practicing social distancing?
Noah: Spending time outside at appropriate distances. We can still enjoy the beautiful area around our campus while social distancing!
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Noah: I really value using technology to keep in touch with friends and family. It has really helped maintain these connections despite not being able to see each other.
Tell me your story.
Noah: I am a NMU alumnus (B.S. '19) and current NMU Graduate Assistant. I transferred to Northern in fall of 2016 to complete a bachelor's of science in marketing, with the intent of working for an organization in the outdoor recreation industry. My undergraduate program was fun and challenging, as I learned how to navigate the different aspects of the business world from marketing, to finance, to management. I would later work for NMU's Housing and Residence Life as an Resident Adviser. I quickly learned I loved working with students and could see myself working on college campuses after graduation.
This change in career interest went easier than I could've imagined, as I later found out about my master's program (Higher Education and Student Affairs). With this program, I intend to get a position as an academic advisor at schools very much like Northern. Maybe one day even coming back to NMU!
Meet Madeline Necas, an environmental studies and sustainability major from Three Oaks, Mich. We asked Madeline a few questions about her NMU experience so far:
Why did you decide to come to NMU?
Madeline: I came to NMU because I enjoyed the community as well as being close to Lake Superior. The faculty and staff were really nice and caring. The Earth, Environmental, Geographical Sciences (EEGS) department is excellent and other students have enjoyed their experience within the department.
What's an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
Madeline: I volunteered for the NMU Clean Up Day as part of the Conservation Crew and we picked up trash along McCarty’s Cove and the NMU campus. It was a fun and cool experience.
What are you involved in within the university as well as outside of campus?
Madeline: I am on the Club Volleyball team and it is my first semester being on the team. I love the girls and they make me feel like family. I also work for the Adult Learning System of the U.P.. I enjoy working and helping others as much as I can.
Outside of school, what do you enjoy?
Madeline: I enjoy hiking and being outside in nature. I enjoy going to Black Rocks on Presque isle and walking on trails there as well.
What does “be Northern” mean to you?
Madeline: What “be Northern” means to me is to get outside and enjoy everything around you. Be adventurous, be curious, be spontaneous. Marquette is one of the prettiest cities I’ve ever been to and it’s amazing, there are so many different activities you can do from hiking to shopping to even seeing the Northern Lights.
What are your plans after graduation?
Madeline: My plans for after graduation are to move out west and work for the Environmental Protection Agency, becoming a Health Scientist and Biologist.
Advice for current students?
Madeline: Even though we are in a pandemic, get outside as much as you possibly can and enjoy the little things around you. Go on a hike with your friends or walk downtown.
Why do you wear a mask?
Madeline: I wear a mask to protect myself and others around me.
How have you been practicing social distancing?
Madeline: I have been maintaining 6 feet apart from people as well as wearing my mask where required to.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Madeline: COVID-19 has changed my life because I had to quarantine myself and be isolated with no social interaction except with my own family. I also couldn’t travel certain places for vacations which was disappointing but I hope that everything can go back to how it was before COVID-19 happened.
Tell me your story.
Madeline: I am a junior transfer student from Lake Michigan College and my major is Environmental Studies and Sustainability. I decided to come to NMU because it felt like home and I love how close it is to Lake Superior. I enjoy being outside and staying active. Hiking is absolutely one of my favorite hobbies to do. There are so many opportunities at Northern Michigan University and I am thankful to be a Wildcat! Remember to be adventurous, curious, and spontaneous!!
Meet Brigitte Bartesch, a dance major from Crystal Lake, Illinois. We asked Brigitte a few questions about her NMU experience so far:
Why did you choose the NMU Dance program?
Brigitte: I chose the NMU Dance Program because there is a lot of opportunity to get involved with different events on campus. Jill Grundstrom is also an amazing teacher, so learning from her has been fun and challenging.
What's an example of a cool, interesting or helpful thing that you have done as a part of your major?
Brigitte: A cool and challenging thing I have done as part of my major has been dancing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in NMU’s Holiday Cabaret. I had to dance en pointe which was hard at first for me because my training en pointe was very limited and this performance really challenged me as a dancer.
What are you involved with on campus?
Brigitte: Before I became a dance major, I was on NMU’s Dance Team as well as took part in extra performances with some of the other dancers.
What do you love about Dance or the NMU Dance program?
Brigitte: What I love about dance is that it’s challenging in so many ways. It’s artistically, physically, and emotionally very demanding. The dance program at NMU is the perfect mix of all those things. I’ve participated in performances and other projects that I don’t think I would have ever been a part of if I wasn’t studying dance here.
Outside of school, what do you enjoy?
Brigitte: Outside of school I love to spend my time outside by Lake Superior, going on hikes with friends, and wakeboarding!
Of your activities on- or off-campus (residence life, student organizations, internships, etc.), what has been the most rewarding and why?
Brigitte: I just recently started teaching at a local dance school in Marquette called Studio Dance Arts. I’ve always wanted to teach dance to kids so having this opportunity is very exciting for me! I get to share my knowledge of what I’ve learned in dance class throughout the years to younger kids who are just learning to dance, while I am still continuing my dance education.
What does “be Northern” mean to you
Brigitte: Going to school in a beautiful town with such a supportive community is so special. Being close to the lake and to so many hiking trails makes being a student at NMU so much fun because there’s so much to explore that’s what “Being Northern” means to me.
What are your hopes or plans after graduation?
Brigitte: My hopes after graduation would be to have any kind of job relating to dance, I’d love to try something new that I’ve never done before. I can really see myself living anywhere in the world, if I end up staying in Marquette that would be great too!
Further comments on your NMU experience:
Brigitte: Overall, the highlight of my college experience so far has been dancing in the program and being taught by Jill Grundstrom. I have had so many great experiences being a part of the Theatre and Dance department here at NMU. I have not only met great friends through dance at NMU, but I have participated in projects and performances that would’ve never happened if it wasn’t for all the amazing and talented people in this program who have worked so hard to make all of this happen.
Why do you wear a mask?
Brigitte: I wear a mask to protect others and stop the spread of COVID-19. I look forward to when we can perform on a stage for a live audience again.
How have you been practicing social distancing?
Brigitte: Some ways I have been practicing social distancing are limiting the amount of people I come in contact with and avoiding large groups of people.
How has COVID-19 changed your perspective or your lifestyle?
Brigitte: Like others, COVID-19 changed definitely changed my lifestyle. From dancing almost everyday to not even being able to step foot in a studio for months was really hard. I’m glad to finally be back in the studio, even wearing a mask while dancing. I’m so glad NMU is doing everything they can to keep us on campus.