Alexandra Alcantar

Alexandra Alcantar is a first-generation computer science and political science double major from West Chicago, IL

Hometown: West Chicago, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2024

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received the NIU Scholars merit scholarship when I enrolled. Receiving this award has allowed me to pursue different activities that I would otherwise not have been able to.  

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 a little kid, I constantly rotated between three careers: chef, lawyer and basketball player. Sadly, I never grew taller than 5'3”, so being a basketball player was a no-go. And the closest I can get to becoming a chef is when I make a quesadilla. Nevertheless, I'm currently pursuing one of the three, being a lawyer.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am double majoring in computer science and political science. Initially, I knew I wanted to go to law school, so I did the most logical thing and became a computer science nerd. I often enjoy solving puzzles, so computer science allowed me to learn logic through programming. I recently added political science as I thought it would improve my reading and writing skills. And I found that it could be helpful to prepare me for law school. 

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
The people. Over the summer, I was fortunate enough to receive a paid summer internship I heard about from two different sources, my mock trial coach and a close friend. My summer consisted of working with the Illinois JusticeCorps and a judge. This experience opened the door to what my future career will look like and surrounded me with like-minded individuals. In addition, I learned about the civil legal system while helping people without attorneys begin civil cases. Without the support and kindness of others at NIU, I would have never had such a fantastic opportunity. 

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
NIU was ultimately online during my first year, so I struggled to connect with others through my screen. Luckily for me, some computer science students made a Discord specifically to meet and help each other. Although I attend class in person now, I often ask the person sitting near me if they want to exchange information to study. This technique has yet to fail!

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?
Currently, I am the vice president of outreach for NIU Mock Trial. It is my second year on the team, and I am excited as the season is just starting. Through Mock Trial, I have surrounded myself with like-minded individuals who enjoy challenges and improved my public speaking skills. I highly recommend everyone to consider joining a student organization as you will find lifelong friends.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you succeed? And how?
The NIU political science department has helped me succeed. Moreover, the faculty members I've interacted with have aided me in my pursuit of attending law school in the future. The department even led me to join the Mock Trial team at NIU. 

What Honors Program opportunities or support have helped you get closer to your academic or career goals so far?
One of my favorite opportunities would be honors-only sections such as seminars. For example, I am taking an honors seminar, Statistics and Social Justice, with Dr. Polansky this semester. It’s an amazing opportunity that the Honors Program offers, because I am learning how to identify and evaluate studies that relate to issues in social justice. Last semester I took an honors-only intro to international politics course. I was surrounded by about 20 other honor students, allowing for more in-class interaction and discussion than a typical 100- or 200-level course.

What do you enjoy the most about the Honors Program?
Last year I participated in the Honors Advocacy Initiative, a student-led group that engages in policy and advocacy for students on campus. HAI was a fantastic opportunity for me as I was able to give suggestions on how to improve enrollment in the Honors Program. In addition, I wanted to focus on how to attract more people of color and commuters. I have always believed that having people who look or share similar backgrounds with you in different aspects of life is essential. Working with HAI has been one of the most enjoyable parts of the Honors Program, as I can talk about issues that are important to me.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors would be my mock trial coach, Dr. Mitchell Pickerill (POLS 419). I genuinely enjoy how direct he is and his honesty. I have learned a lot from him; he was one of the first attorneys I have had the pleasure of meeting. Dr. Pickerill honestly believes that all his students should strive to improve themselves and that they can reach their goals. He has also advised me about the law school application process and the next steps I should take. 

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
While by the end of the semester, you can feel just over class, I find it is necessary to stick to a schedule and go to class during that time. Attending class allowed me to have a better relationship with the material I was learning, while having access to professors. 

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
Founders Memorial Library would be my favorite place on campus; it is a great place to relax and focus on tasks. While most sites at NIU are busy and constantly moving, the library is calm. In addition, looking at the books allows me to reflect and focus on my courses, while reminding me why I decided to further my education. I would highly recommend it, especially when stressed or overstimulated.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
As a first-generation student, applying to college was a scary process. For the most part, I had no idea what I was doing. Luckily, I reached out to my teachers and community leaders to help me in the process. Therefore, my most significant advice would be to reach out and not be afraid to ask for help. One specific task that helped me during the process was to sit down and make a spreadsheet containing basic information about the colleges you are considering. This allows you to look at the facts and focus on what is essential to you. 

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Adjusting to college was difficult; I had a difficult time organizing myself. Personally, learning how to balance academics and my mental health was complex, especially when dealing with academic burnout and procrastination. I had to learn how to organize my time. That's one of the reasons I love the library. It's a place where I can study without finding a distraction.