Alex Aykroyd

• Hometown: Chandler, AZ
• High School: Central High School
• Years as NA: 1.5
• Major(s): Health Sciences (Pre-Health Track) -- Pre-Medical Emphasis
• Minor(s): Biological Sciences / Chemistry
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “My college search was extensive because I aspire to attend medical school. I researched universities nationwide with pre-med programs, clubs, and organizations, then narrowed my list to those within five hours of family or close friends to ensure I had a support system when I started college. I applied to every school that fit these criteria and was accepted to over 50 undergraduate institutions. After reviewing financial aid and scholarships, NIU offered the strongest financial support. When I visited campus, I was drawn to the vibrant student organizations (many of which I now participate in) and Patterson Residence Hall. NIU's affordability means I can earn a quality education while minimizing debt before medical school.”

Career Goal: Pediatrician (M.D.)

Campus Involvement: NIU Presidential Scholar, NIU Honors, NIU Pre-Professional Association, NIU Pre-Medical Association, NIU Anatomical Society, NIU Alpha Epsilon Delta (AED), National Honor Society of Pre-Health Students, NIU Club Baseball (VP, Relations Officer, Social/Community Involvement), NIU Research Rookies, NIU Rising Scholar

Hobbies: Sports, Working out, Camping, Listening to music

Favorite Spot: Holmes Student Center's Club 1895 (Bowling Alley) or Huskie Stadium on game day

Fun Fact: “I am the first Eagle Scout from Boy Scout Troop 0038 in Elgin, IL!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part is representing NIU, connecting with future Huskies, and helping them feel welcomed and excited about their college journey.”

Amber-Christine Reed

• Hometown: Bismarck, IL
• High School: Bismarck-Henning Rossville-Alvin Cooperative High School
• Years as NA: 1.5
• Major(s): Psychology
• Minor(s): Spanish / Counseling
• Certificate(s): Adolescence
• Year: Senior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU for the location, affordability, and support systems. NIU has a great campus with plenty of benefits. Additionally, there are many full-time professors who are truly passionate about their fields!”

Career Goal: Youth Mental Health Therapist

Campus Involvement: Vice President of Psi Chi Honor Society, Student Psychological Association, Justice and Sustainability Association, NIU Counseling Association, former NIU cheerleader, and NIU Childcare Center

Hobbies: Concerts, Ice Skating, Art, Writing, Working out, Nature, Childcare, Reading, and many more!

Favorite Spot: Olive Goyle statue near Altgeld Hall

Fun Fact: “I did gymnastics for around 8 years and then cheerleading for 7!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA is getting to interact with families and helping students have some peace of mind about what the best decision is for themselves!”

Angel Bindas

• Hometown: Chicago, IL
• High School: Plainfield Central High School
• Years as NA: 2.5
• Major(s): Health & Human Sciences -- Healthcare Administration Emphasis
• Minor(s): Psychology
• Year: Senior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU not because I lacked options, but because I had an abundance of opportunities waiting for me here. The community feels welcoming and genuine, the education is strong and supportive, and being close to home allows me to stay grounded while pursuing my goals. As a Health Sciences student, NIU has given me the space to grow and feel connected to a campus that cares.”

Career Goal: Management within a mental healthcare facility

Campus Involvement: NIU Honors, Open Mic Nights

Hobbies: Writing poetry, Creating art, Gaming, Attending on-campus events

Favorite Spot: East Lagoon

Fun Fact: “I enjoy vulture culture and oddities! I also love practicing creative expression through piercings and tattoo art, which has become one of my favorite artistic outlets.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being a Northern Ambassador is getting to support prospective students and their families during such an important and often emotional time. The college search process can feel overwhelming, and being able to offer reassurance and helpful information has been fulfilling for me. Knowing I can make their experience a little easier is what I love most about this role!”

Avery Belom

• Hometown: Plainfield, IL
• High School: Plainfield East High School
• Years as NA: 1
• Major(s): Speech Language Pathology
• Minor(s): American Sign Language (ASL)
• Year: Sophomore

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because I have always been inspired to attend since I was young. From watching the gymnastics meets as a kid to seeing the diverse and loving community, I knew NIU was for me! The affordability and education have always been big reasons why NIU was such an easy choice for me.”

Career Goal: Working with children as a Speech-Language Pathologist

Campus Involvement: American Sign Language (ASL) Club

Hobbies: Drawing, Journaling, Gymnastics/Dance

Favorite Spot: NIU Recreation Center

Fun Fact: “I was a competitive gymnast for 14 years; I was born deaf in my left ear, and I was voted most outgoing senior in high school!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA is talking with all my coworkers. No matter what kind of day I'm having, they always make my day so much brighter, and I love how I can always be my crazy, outgoing, goofy self.”

Ciara Jordan

• Hometown: Chicago, IL
• High School: Gwendolyn Brooks College Preparatory Academy
• Years as NA: 3
• Major(s): Economics
• Minor(s): Nonprofit and NGO / Art History
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because of the amazing resources that we offer students leaving high school and entering their freshman year of college, from social-emotional support to academics. I knew I needed support with the transition, so I happily took advantage of those resources.”

Career Goal: Economic Theory within social and political issues

Campus Involvement: Embrace Models, Campus Live Network, BSU

Hobbies: Fashion, Watching movies

Favorite Spot: East Lagoon

Fun Fact: “I've watched Hamilton over 50 times!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “Getting to genuinely connect with visiting students and help shape their first experience on a college campus.”

Gaylene Vieyra

• Hometown: Minooka, IL
• High School: Minooka Community High School
• Years as NA: 1
• Major(s): Marketing
• Minor(s): Graphic Design
• Certificate(s): Asian American Studies
• Languages: English, Spanish
• Year: Sophomore / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because it was one of the schools that truly demonstrated diversity rather than simply using it for promotion. It was also one of the universities that offered me the most financial aid.”

Career Goal: Pursue a career in event marketing or public relations

Campus Involvement: Women in Business, Circus Club, InterVarsity

Hobbies: Baking, Reading, Learning languages, Playing with my cats

Favorite Spot: NIU Music Library

Fun Fact: “Spanish was my first language, and I have since become fluent in English while also learning some Indonesian, French, and Mandarin.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part so far has been connecting with so many incoming students. Now that I attend NIU, I can help answer questions I once had myself and be part of their NIU journey.”

Keagan Schoenhaar

• Hometown: Hanover, IL
• High School: River Ridge High School
• Years as NA: 2.5
• Major(s): Communications -- Media Studies Emphasis
• Year: Senior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because it gave me the best opportunity to pursue my degree while being able to support myself financially.”

Career Goal: Become a radio or TV broadcaster for sporting events

Campus Involvement: Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity

Hobbies: Going to sporting events, Hanging out with friends, Attending on-campus events

Favorite Spot: Huskie Stadium on a Saturday

Fun Fact: “I got to meet Bill Murray because of a volunteer event I did for class.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “The people I get to work with and meet along the way, as well as being able to be one of the reasons students choose NIU.”

Hetvi Patel

• Hometown: Des Plaines, IL
• High School: Maine West High School
• Years as NA: Less than 1
• Major(s): Business Administration
• Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi
• Year: Sophomore / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because it was closer to home but also far enough away that I could live independently.”

Career Goal: Contribute to the growth of an organization

Campus Involvement: Asian American Resource Center, former president of the Bhakti Meditation Club

Hobbies: Watching YouTube, Drawing, Listening to music, Going for walks

Favorite Spot: Holmes Student Center (Oasis and Huskie Den)

Fun Fact: “I was born in India, and I moved to the US when I was 11 years old!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA is meeting and connecting with new people and representing Northern Illinois University.”

Kaycee Lott

• Hometown: Southside Chicago, IL
• High School: Brooks College Prep
• Years as NA: 3
• Major(s): Business Management -- Social Responsibility & Entrepreneurship Emphasis
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because of the amazing business program, as I learned that it had the same accreditations as many Ivy League universities and tailors the program directly to its students. The business program also goes beyond just the classroom; they want to see you succeed and are always providing opportunities.”

Career Goal: CEO of my own business

Campus Involvement: NPHC (President), Delta Sigma Theta Sorority (Chapter Treasurer), NAACP (Finance Committee), Campus Live Network (Director of Marketing), former member of Final Warning Dance Team, BBSA, and NBC

Hobbies: Dancing, Performing, Learning new things

Favorite Spot: The Huskie Den

Fun Fact: “I've never broken a bone!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA is that I get to meet so many students from diverse backgrounds. I enjoy being a bridge that helps them learn more about NIU, so I always make it my mission to leave them with an impactful experience.”

Hans Herrera

• Hometown: Glen Ellyn, IL
• High School: Glenbard South High School
• Years as NA: 2.5
• Major(s): Theatre Studies / Art History
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “While I chose NIU as a high school student seeking financial and academic flexibility, I am proud to continue calling NIU home because of its abundance of resources for student success in living, studying, and networking beyond the university.”

Career Goal: Theatrical direction and scholarship

Campus Involvement: Penguin Players, NIU Honors, School of Theatre & Dance Productions

Hobbies: Writing, Cycling, Painting, Baking

Favorite Spot: Northern View Apartment Prairies

Fun Fact: “I have worked on 13 theatrical productions during my time at NIU!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “I love matching prospective students' interests with opportunities at the university! The world is your oyster!”

Lidia Marquez

• Hometown: DeKalb, IL
• High School: DeKalb High School
• Years as NA: 3
• Major(s): Operations Management & Information Systems (OMIS) / Spanish & Hispanic Studies
• Minor(s): Business Analytics / Latin American Studies
• Languages: English / Spanish
• Year: Senior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because it reflected who I was as a first-generation Latina pursuing a career in business! From the start, I knew NIU would allow me to earn two degrees and graduate debt-free while supporting Latinx and first-generation students. It was the place that aligned with my story and invested in my future.”

Career Goal: Supply Chain Management

Campus Involvement: Study Abroad, Ballet Folklorico Aztlán, Adela de la Torre Latino Honor Society, Former president of the Hispanic Business Student Association

Hobbies: Watching true crime documentaries, Learning makeup techniques, Visiting new coffee shops

Favorite Spot: Davis Hall fountains

Fun Fact: “I have profound unilateral hearing loss in my left ear.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA is seeing the impact I can have on a family's experience at NIU. We're often the first impression they have of campus and a representation of the many communities we serve. I love knowing I helped guide a family, especially those whose shoes I was once in.”

Mahek Parekh

• Hometown: Gurnee, IL
• High School: Warren Township High School
• Years as NA: 1.5
• Major(s): Mechanical Engineering
• Languages: English, Gujarati, Hindi
• Year: Junior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “NIU is far enough away from my home to give me independence, yet close enough to go home on weekends if needed.”

Career Goal: Work in engineering

Campus Involvement: NIU Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC)

Hobbies: Crochet

Favorite Spot: Einstein Bagels

Fun Fact: “I'm the first one in my immediate and extended family to join the military.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “Getting paid to talk and give back by helping prospective students!”

Mei Lin McDermott

• Hometown: Moline, IL
• High School: Moline Senior High School
• Years as NA: Less than 1
• Major(s): Music Education
• Year: Junior

Why NIU: “It felt like NIU really wanted me to come. I never felt like an item to be checked off a list when they were communicating with me as I was making my university decision. The Financial Aid Office helped a lot in making sure my journey here at NIU would be more affordable for my family.”

Career Goal: Be involved with music and explore writing

Campus Involvement: Study Abroad, NIU Honors, NIU Philharmonic, NIU Community School of Arts Beginning Violin and Piano Instructor

Hobbies: Crochet, Reading, Writing, Watching movies, Making coffee

Favorite Spot: Einstein Bros. Bagels or Residence hall room

Fun Fact: “I've been a barista at two major coffee chains and love making and recommending coffee for others!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “Getting to play a part in showing future Huskies just how great NIU can be in helping them work toward their career goals. We may be some of the first people those students and families interact with on campus, and I take pride in knowing that I can help make that experience a positive one for them.”

Michelle Heelan

• Hometown: New Lenox, IL
• High School: Lincoln Way West High School
• Years as NA: Less than 1
• Major(s): Elementary Education -- ESL Endorsement
• Year: Junior / Transfer / First-Gen

Why NIU: “NIU was founded as a State Normal School, which trained students to become teachers. This aligns with my goals and career path. I also liked the size of the school, as it is very manageable.”

Career Goal: ESL elementary teacher

Campus Involvement: NIU Honors

Hobbies: Reading, Cooking, Watching TV, Attending on-campus events

Favorite Spot: Founders Memorial Library

Fun Fact: “I'm a transfer student!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “I love meeting new people and making an impact on their lives. I like to help with the college search as much as possible because it was difficult for me as a first-gen student.”

Naomi Libman

• Hometown: Lake Zurich, IL
• High School: Lake Zurich High School
• Years as NA: 1
• Major(s): Biological Sciences
• Year: Junior

Why NIU: “There is an amazing pre-health program, which was a key point for me. In addition, the campus community offers many activities that help me get involved! NIU is also close enough to home that if I need to go back, I can do so easily.”

Career Goal: Optometrist

Campus Involvement: Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority

Hobbies: Going to concerts, Reading

Favorite Spot: Fushi Yami or Burritoville

Fun Fact: “I used to do ballet and ballroom dancing.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “Talking to new students and helping them find their place on campus!”

Nyasia Johnson

• Hometown: Zion, IL
• High School: Zion-Benton Township High School
• Years as NA: 1.5
• Major(s): Sociology -- Criminology Emphasis
• Minor(s): Political Science
• Certificate(s): Social Science Research and Analysis
• Year: Senior / First-Gen

Why NIU: “I chose NIU because receiving a full-tuition scholarship gave me an incredible opportunity, but I was also really drawn to how diverse and welcoming the campus felt. I liked that I could meet people from so many different backgrounds while still finding a community of my own. Over time, NIU has become a place where I've met some of my closest friends, found organizations I genuinely care about, and gotten to know people who have made campus feel a lot more like home.”

Career Goal: Public Policy / Legislative Work (Health Policy and Civil Rights)

Campus Involvement: Pre-Law Honors Society (President), Model Illinois Government (Vice-President), Political Science Advisory Council (Student Representative), NIU Honors

Hobbies: Spending time with friends, Working out, Watching movies, Visiting museums, Trying new matcha places

Favorite Spot: Holmes Student Center

Fun Fact: “I spent this summer (2026) interning in Washington, D.C. with the U.S. House of Representatives!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “My favorite part of being an NA has been the people I've been able to meet and connect with. I've really enjoyed connecting with prospective students and their families, answering their questions, and helping make their visits and tours feel more personal and welcoming. I've also built some really great friendships and connections with other NAs.”

Raphael Mann

• Hometown: Bloomington, IL
• High School: Normal West High School
• Years as NA: Less than 1
• Major(s): Kinesiology
• Year: Sophomore

Why NIU: “I had very positive experiences every time I visited and really loved the Huskie community! I also wanted to take advantage of the many opportunities offered through the Honors Program and the KNPE Department here!”

Career Goal: Earn Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) and work as a Physical Therapist

Campus Involvement: NIU Honors, NIU Anatomical Society, Pre-Physical Therapy Club

Hobbies: Cooking, Reading, Detective-Style puzzles and games

Fun Fact: “I have four less teeth than the average adult!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “I would say the people! Everyone on staff is so welcoming and made me feel right at home, even when I was new to the role. I'm also really proud to represent NIU to those who visit!”

Sam Taylor

• Hometown: Oak Park, IL
• High School: Oak Park & River Forest High School
• Years as NA: 2.5
• Major(s): Mechatronics Engineering
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “NIU's engineering program and facilities got my attention, with the location and cost of attendance being my deciding factors.”

Career Goal: Working in Robotics Industry

Campus Involvement: Former E-Board member of the NIU Tabletop Gaming Club

Hobbies: Playing games with friends

Favorite Spot: East Lagoon

Fun Fact: “I played hide and seek in a ruined castle in Edinburgh when I was younger.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “The community of my fellow Northern Ambassadors.”

Sebastian Vega

• Hometown: Mayaguez, Puerto Rico
• High School: Centro Residencial de Oportunidades Educativas de Mayaguez (CROEM)
• Years as NA: 2.5
• Major(s): Acting B.F.A.
• Minor(s): Political Science / French
• Languages: English, Spanish
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “When I was making my college selection, NIU was the only university that provided financial aid for me to come here. That is something that I am proud of NIU for doing. Our institution will find a way to help you and give you options in the financial aspect. Additionally, NIU has made it clear that everyone belongs here, and by doing that, we create a welcoming space where people feel like they belong, making NIU feel like a home away from home. I will be forever grateful to our institution for all the great opportunities and great people I've met throughout the years.”

Career Goal: Working actor in Theatre and Film

Campus Involvement: Community Advisor, Alpha Psi Lambda National Inc.

Hobbies: Learning new languages, Playing the flute, Climbing indoors/outdoors

Favorite Spot: East Lagoon

Fun Fact: “I am the oldest of my siblings.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “For every tour and event day I am looking forward to receiving families not only from the state but from across the country. I love that I get to meet the families and providing the best service we can offer as Huskies. Something that hits closer to home are the events that we cater to our Spanish speaking audience. I am thrilled to see how happy parents get when they see that they can have all of our services in the language they feel most comfortable in.”

Theresa Hoang

• Hometown: Chicago, IL
• High School: CICS Northtown Academy
• Years as NA: 4
• Major(s): Accountancy / Management -- Leadership and Management Emphasis
• Minor(s): Esports Industry Professions
• Languages: English, Vietnamese
• Year: Senior

Why NIU: “NIU was close enough that I could go home in case there was an emergency, but I was also far enough away from home where I could learn how to be independent and create my own community out here.”

Career Goal: Own a company and work with my family

Campus Involvement: Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, Beta Alpha Psi Accountancy Honor Society

Hobbies: Sleeping, Listening to music, Hanging out with friends, Reading

Favorite Spot: Holmes Student Center

Fun Fact: “I played the piano and trumpet when I was in elementary school.”

Favorite part of being an NA? “The people I work with are all amazing people that make me want to keep coming back. I also like the career development that the Northern Ambassador Program provides by making me go out of my comfort zone to do more public speaking and be comfortable with it.”

Vic Contreras

• Hometown: Aurora, IL
• High School: Oswego East High School
• Years as NA: 1
• Major(s): Business Management -- Social Responsibility and Entrepreneurship Emphasis / Environmental Sciences -- Sustainability and Energy Management Emphasis
• Year: Senior / Transfer

Why NIU: “It's close enough to home that I can still go visit family while being able to live independently and without the worry that my parents will randomly drop in! Additionally, NIU was a lot more affordable than the other universities I was looking at during that time and offered a lot of financial aid. Admissions staff was very helpful and encouraged me throughout the admissions process as well! Lastly, I saw there was a lot of opportunity to make friends and find others who shared my interests through campus involvement.”

Career Goal: Environmental Consultation or Environmental Management

Campus Involvement: Community Advisor (CA) at Northern View Community, Community Outreach and Recruitment Chair for NIU CAUSE

Hobbies: Creative writing, Gaming, Drawing/Painting, Gardening, Hiking with dog, Napping, and Learning (currently central dogma of microbiology!)

Favorite Spot: Neptune Lounge or East Lagoon

Fun Fact: “I want to have my own in-house saltwater aquarium with garden eels, stingrays, seahorses and shrimp!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “All of the people I get to meet and talk to, whether they are other Northern Ambassadors, current students, staff, or prospective students and families. This job frequently reminds me of the inherent kindness and friendliness of real people in my community.”

Yael Monzalvo

• Hometown: Bensenville, IL
• High School: Fenton High School
• Years as NA: 3
• Major(s): Biomedical Engineering -- Biomaterials Emphasis
• Languages: English, Spanish
• Year: Senior / First Gen

Why NIU: “I chose to go to NIU because of the affordability. It was close enough to home if I wanted to go back for a weekend. It has a good engineering program, and I could continue playing my instrument, as it is something I am passionate about.”

Career Goal: Design Prosthetics

Campus Involvement: Community Advisor, Huskie Marching Band

Hobbies: Riding motorcycle, Hanging out with friends, Video games

Favorite Spot: Neptune Central

Fun Fact: “I ride a motorcycle!”

Favorite part of being an NA? “I enjoy being able to help families with any doubts they may have and bring comfort to those who are still deciding on their future path.”