Chloe Hardy

Chloe Hardy is an elementary education major from Sycamore, IL

Hometown: Sycamore, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2025

What scholarships did you receive and why did you receive them? How has the financial support impacted your experience at NIU?
I received an NIU merit scholarship for the GPA I received while in high school. I also received a Huskie Legacy Award because my stepdad, Bob Bemister, received his business degree at NIU. 

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 growing up, I wanted to be an astronaut. I wanted to be able to explore things that have never been explored. The reason I decided to go into teaching was because I want to inspire others to explore the unexplored, while keeping my feet on the ground. 

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My major is elementary education with an emphasis in ESL/bilingual education. I decided to become a teacher because I have always loved working with younger minds. I feel like we, as adults, can learn from future generations to help impact our generation.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
In my time at NIU, I have found it surprising to see many familiar faces. NIU has made it so I have classes with many of the same people within my degree, while ensuring new faces as well. There is no way to come out of this university with no network. Because of my time here at NIU, I can say that my career has been made easier because of the professional connections I have made.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
To connect with students, I have loved using Blackboard and NIU Facebook groups to keep in touch and stay informed about things happening on 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 was a part of the women's rugby team here at NIU. Not only did I love meeting new people through this sport, but I got to work with the NIU recreation department on the logistics of sports here at the university.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you succeed? And how?
The advising offices here at NIU have been a great help. I switched my major from non-profit studies to elementary education. The transition was a big fear, but the advising office made it very smooth and they made themselves accessible whenever I needed them.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite professor here at NIU has been John Stoia. He taught my human biology class as I was going through my prerequisites. His love for his content was easily seen in his lessons. His lectures were guided through peer conversation. Never have I had a teacher question me about my own opinions more than Dr. Stoia. 

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
By attending class regularly, I have received the benefit of enjoying my time as a Huskie. When doing remote learning, I lack the in-person connection that cannot be made through a screen. 

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite spot on campus is Barsema Hall. Growing up with a parent who came to NIU, I got to regularly visit him there. Remembering his honor, I enjoy going there to just remember the times I had as a soon-to-be Huskie.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
Go to the universities you are interested in and sit down, eat a meal and just imagine yourself spending your college years there. 

Why is a college education important to you?
A college education is important to me because college is not just a time to learn about a career, it is a time to learn about yourself. NIU gives students the flexibility to explore different career paths as well as a variety of clubs and organizations to bring out the most unique version of themselves. 

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
I love my handy-dandy planner I got from Target. I find it easiest to have everything written out right in front of me. 

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
I stay informed about campus events through the NIU [Weekly Scroll] newsletters sent out every week to my NIU email. 

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I like to spend time with those closest to me, as well as use retail therapy on days I can afford it. 

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am a teaching assistant at a daycare located in Sycamore, Illinois. I spend most of my time singing along to “Baby Shark” and “Going on a Bear Hunt” with many brave two-year-olds.