Bogusia Wrzosek

Bogusia Wrzosek is an applied management major from Crystal Lake, IL

Hometown: Crystal Lake, IL

Class Of: 2023

Major: Applied Management

Transfer from: Harper College

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 a pediatric surgeon. Unfortunately, I am not pursuing that as a major. I have chosen a different path.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
My current major is applied management: instructional technology, training and evaluation (BSAM-ITTE). I returned to school almost 10 years after completing my associate degree and needed a degree that was accessible for me. As I am a single mom with full-time employment, I wouldn't be able to attend college as a regular student. After finding this program, I was actually very excited because it will help me grow professionally. I can apply my studies within the company I work for and many other fields.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
When enrolling in one of NIU's fully online programs, I was a little skeptical of not having access to resources. The most pleasantly surprising thing about NIU has been how nice and helpful everyone is.

How have you connected with other students virtually to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
It only has been a little over a month since I joined the Huskies, and I am still learning and exploring ways to connect with fellow students. 

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?
At this moment I am not involved in any student organizations or extracurricular activities. I am hoping that I will find something I can get involved in and include that as part of my NIU experience.

Where is your favorite spot on campus or in the community? Why are you drawn to it?
I have only seen the campus online so far, but I hope that I will get to visit when it gets warmer. I'd love to bring my kids and show them around as well.

What advice would you give to a student who is applying to colleges?
The advice that I would give to students is to never give up. As a transfer student returning to school after 10 years, I want to tell you that it is never too late. If you feel like life is getting ahead of you, take a deep breath and never give up. Be proud of yourself and your achievements no matter how late in life they come.

Coming to college, what is something that you have had to learn to do differently?
I definitely had to learn how to manage my time differently. The ability to plan ahead and manage my time made it easier for me to adjust when yet another task was added to my day.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
In the summertime, outdoor activities are what help me relax. I love kayaking and biking. On colder days, woodworking is my stress relief. I also love seeing new places with my two boys. Every year we try to visit a new state or city to create lifelong memories.