Hannah Kofoid

Hannah Kofoid is a marketing major from Oconto Falls, WI

Hometown: Oconto Falls, WI

Class Of: 2023

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 always went back and forth from becoming a teacher to working in the sports industry. Luckily for me, a particular course in high school, Retailing and Sports Marketing, helped me discover what I was passionate about, which is sport marketing. Today, I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in that area.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I am pursuing a bachelor’s degree in marketing, a minor in sport management and a minor in sport sales. I also intend to get a certificate in digital marketing.  

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
What I've found pleasantly surprising at NIU is how welcoming and helpful the instructors are, regardless of the course type or size. I feel comfortable enough to reach out to my professors if I have questions or need support throughout the semester. I recommend that students connect with their professors. In addition to helping you succeed in the classroom, they’ll make sure you are set to go out into the workforce.

How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
Coming into NIU, I only knew a select handful of people, so I was really looking to meet new students. Joining student organizations has been the most successful way to meet other COB students. Another way I have connected with other students is through the various group projects in my courses, which is one of my favorite things to participate in.

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?
The biggest thing that helped me connect with other students on campus was joining student organizations in the College of Business. Since my first year in 2019, I have joined four student organizations: Leaders in Ethics and Academic Discipline, Women in Business Professions, COB Dean's Student Advisory Board and the Collegiate Association of Unreasonable Social Entrepreneurs. From the monthly events to the leadership positions I hold in these groups, I have met some of the greatest individuals and friends at NIU. Getting involved at NIU has helped me make lifelong friends, better understand what the university has to offer to students, and helped prepare me for my professional endeavors.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
My favorite COB teacher so far has been Jason Gorham (Business in Action instructor). Coming in as a scared freshman, he made sure we had the right resources to get adjusted to NIU and our coursework. He also introduced us to real-world scenarios early on, so we were comfortable and aware of other ones that would come up during our time at NIU. My favorite non-COB teacher has been David Serowka (Introduction to Sport Management and Sport Sales and Sponsorships). He has really helped me develop a passion for sports business by presenting a wide variety of real-world opportunities in the industry. He makes sure we are aware of current trends and well-informed on every aspect of sport business. 

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
My favorite NIU spot has to be the atrium in Barsema Hall. Being in a productive area helps me get my work done, and since there are so many like-minded students in the area, I am able to find assistance and bounce ideas off of others whenever I need to. 

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
Don't pick a place solely on the majors they offer. Research what each college provides their students and how you will get real-world experiences during your academic time. 

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
Coming to college, I had to learn to adjust my schedule to make sure I have time for academics, extracurriculars, my occupations and personal things. Having a current schedule of everything has helped me stay on track and not forget anything along the way. 

What do you do to relax or recharge?
One thing I like to do to relax is listen to music. Sometimes life gets so busy and hectic, so being able to turn on a calming playlist really helps me stay focused and grounded. 

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
I'm glad that I was selected for this opportunity! I am proud to be an NIU Huskie!