The NIU University Honors Program boasts a nationally recognized experiential learning program. But what’s a great program without sufficient access? Please help us ensure that all students can afford to take part in the life-changing experiences housed in the Honors Program. From internships to job shadow experiences to mentored research, students require resources to participate.
The Honors Program is home to over 1,100 students, has welcomed record numbers of incoming classes in recent years, and helps graduate Huskies that are ready to take on the ever-changing landscape of tomorrow. In the last year, Honors Engaged won one of three distinguished program awards at the annual Pathways to Student Development Conference. Honors Staff was also recognized with the inaugural Staff Team Award for Creativity and Innovation for implementing the co-curricular program in 2023. Your contributions to the University Honors Program is a solid investment in student success.
Amit Chaudhary, Mechanical Engineering
Amit is conducting in-depth research on Autonomous Cars using a Robot Operating System.
“As a student in the field of Mechanical Engineering with concentration on Robotics, this experience represents a pivotal steppingstone in my education. It will allow me to bridge the theoretical knowledge I have acquired in my coursework with practical, real-world applications, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of self-driving car algorithms and their implementation. This experience aligns perfectly with my aspirations to contribute to the development and optimization of autonomous vehicles, making transportation safer and more efficient. Furthermore, it provides a unique opportunity to apply my academic knowledge in a practical context, thereby fostering my growth as a future technology professional.”
“A key highlight of this experience is the opportunity to meet with Ernesto Ocampo, a Senior Software Engineer at Google. Visiting the Google office in London and interacting with the team there aligns perfectly with my career aspirations. This experience is not just about academic learning; it’s about building a network and setting a foundation for my future in the tech industry, particularly at a dream company like Google, where my passion for technology and programming can be fully realized. This study abroad program, therefore, is not only academically enriching but also a crucial step towards achieving my long-term career goals in technology and understanding healthcare systems.”
Emma Walsh, Finance
Emma currently serves as an Honors Fellow providing mentorship and advising to Honors peers.
"Being an Honors Fellow has impacted my experience at NIU by allowing me to meet so many students of all different majors. It is rewarding to be able to help students navigate honors classes, plan their schedules, and advise on campus and community involvement. One of my favorite things about being an Honors Fellow is establishing relationships with my peers. It is important that the Honors Program provides students with engaged opportunities because these experiences encourage students to get involved on campus and in the community. There are so many opportunities for learning and growth and these experiences allow students to connect with and meet other people. These engaged opportunities provide resources for students to discover their passions and make the most of their college experiences."
