Kari Garcia - NMU Admissions

I grew up in Rapid River, Mich., 60 miles south of NMU. So I am a Yooper at heart.

I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts from Central Michigan University in 2003.  After graduation I set off for the east coast to explore and start a new adventure. I started my career in the admissions office at the New England Culinary Institute. It was awesome and I had a great time, but I still can’t cook. I have always worked in college admissions and I love it. It is so amazing to be able to help students with such an important decision in their lives. After several years out east, I decided it was time to head back to the Mid-west to be closer to my family. I lived in Chicago for eight years and earned a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership from Dominican University. I grew tired of big city life and I am now living in the U.P. and enjoying all that Marquette has to offer, with my husband and two kids.

Studying abroad. I went to Prague, Czech Republic, for a month to study literature the summer before my senior year in college. It was unbelievable! I was able to learn Czech, see some very cool historical sites, take a road trip to Munich, Germany, learn poetry from some of the best poets in the world, take a Mike’s Bike tour of the city and hang out with some cool new people. I highly encourage you to check out the study abroad programs at NMU. It will be worth it.

Paddleboarding on Lake Superior. There is nothing like the serenity of the lake to help you decompress after a busy day.

As my parents dropped me off to move into the residence halls for the first time, my mom hugged me and said, while crying of course, “This is the first day of the rest of your life. Make the most of it!” I have always agreed with that statement. I would also say, try to manage your time the best you can. Make sure to schedule time to study, go to class, sleep, exercise and, of course, socialize. Your parents won’t be there to tell you to go to bed or get your homework done, so you need to make sure that you are keeping your body and mind healthy.