Mckayla Fitzpatrick

Mckayla Fitzpatrick is a business administration major from Sycamore, IL

Hometown: Sycamore, IL

Year: Expected graduation: 2024

Transfer from: Kishwaukee Community College

Why did you choose to attend NIU?
I chose NIU because of location, culture and affordability.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you pursuing that as a major, or have you taken another path?
Fifth grade is when my passion for teaching began, and I decided it would be my full-time career as an adult. I was a teacher's assistant for a third-grade class my senior year, which was a great opportunity. I learned a lot from having that position, and it taught me a great deal. But it also revealed that teaching might not be my optimal fit. Consequently, upon graduating high school, I decided to alter my intended major.

What is your major (and/or minor) and why did you decide on this course of study?
I’m currently pursuing a major in business administration and a minor in marketing. I decided on this course of study once I came to the realization that elementary education wasn't my calling. I had many talks with my parents on potential career paths, valuing their insights due to their deep understanding of my life. My dad, in particular, expressed that if given the chance to redo his career, he would go to college and pursue a business degree. Inspired by his thoughts, I explored the field and discovered an interest in it.

What has been something you have found pleasantly surprising about your experience at NIU?
Something I have found pleasantly surprising about my experience at NIU is how nice everyone on campus is. There is a warm and diverse community here, and I love it. There is so much to do and experience here, and I hope to continue to get more involved around campus.

How have you connected with other students to study for classes, meet new people or form new friendships?
When I transferred to NIU, I didn't know anyone in the College of Business. Naturally, this sparked some nervousness. But I quickly met many people and made so many new friendships! I met my closest friends by getting involved in the Management and Business Administration Student Advisory Board (MBSAB). I would highly recommend involvement in school-specific organizations as an effective means of connecting with like-minded individuals.

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?
As a member of MBSAB and the College of Business mentoring program, where I now serve as a mentor, my engagement has enhanced my experience as a Huskie. Contributing to the success of my peers and building connections within the College of Business has been very fulfilling.

What NIU offices, departments or resources have helped you feel safe, supported and successful? And how?
The management department within the College of Business has done a wonderful job of making me feel supported and safe. My advisor, Steph Horgan, is truly the best and has definitely set me up for success. It feels great to know I have someone who has my back and is so willing to help me with my career.

Are there transfer-specific resources, offices or services that you use to help you succeed at NIU?
When I initially transferred to NIU, I neglected to thoroughly research resources for transfer students. Reflecting on this, I wish I had become more involved from the start. Now that I know the resources that are available, I hope to help others.

Who has been one of your favorite instructors/professors and why? What course did they teach?
One of my favorite professors I have had thus far in my time at NIU has to be Professor Scott Rosenfelder. I was in his UBUS 110: Business in Action course. UBUS 110 is a very hands-on consulting course, and who better to learn from than someone with extensive industry experience? Professor Rosenfelder helped me build myself up as a business professional and taught me all the skills I will need in the business world. I appreciate how he went about teaching this course; it was very effective, and I could see the difference between my confidence at the beginning of the course and the end of the course.

How have you benefited by attending class regularly?
Attending class regularly has provided me with a structured learning environment and helps me manage my time effectively. I also love the social aspect of attending class. I am able to network and make great connections with professors and students.

What advice would you give to a student who is researching colleges to apply to?
For prospective college students, my advice is to carefully consider your priorities when selecting a college and to visit campuses to gain a firsthand feel for the environment.

Why is a college education important to you?
As a first-generation student, a college education is extremely important to me. I view it as an opportunity to make my family proud and showcase my dedication to education. Additionally, I aspire to establish myself as a driven and accomplished businesswoman.

What strategies do you use to manage your time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family?
To manage my time between the responsibilities of school, work, friends and family, I prioritize the tasks I need to complete and keep a detailed schedule in Excel. It takes a little bit of trial and error at first, but I have been able to perfect it, and my schedule is overall pretty seamless

How do you stay informed about events and services that are available on campus?
Remaining informed about campus events and services is essential, achieved through daily email checks and monitoring passport events on Suitable within the College of Business. I also keep an eye out for flyers around campus as well.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
To relax and recharge, I love to go on walks with my dog and listen to some music.

Please tell us about your job and hobbies.
I am currently a server at a local restaurant. Some of my hobbies are coaching, choreographing dances for high school students and working out. In addition, I’ve been dancing since the age of 10 and have enjoyed every second spent in the studio. Dance has not only shaped my identity but also instilled leadership qualities, evident in my roles as a coach and choreographer. I believe it’s an effective way to learn leadership skills and will be beneficial for me in the future.