Thomas Chicka

I decided to come to NMU because it was the place that felt the most like home for me. From the first time I set foot on campus, I felt like Northern was not only a place for me to learn, but somewhere I could thrive. I wanted to go to college where I felt like I could be part of something bigger than myself, and NMU has given me the opportunity to make that happen. There is truly something magic about how this campus feels sometimes, and I am so glad that I get to be a part of what makes that magic happen.

I chose to pursue a nursing degree because I always wanted to have a career where I could help people heal. Nursing will allow me to not only help people heal, but truly make a profound impact in their lives. I think that nurses are the unsung heroes of the medical world, allowing for everyone else to be successful. NMU's nursing program will give me the knowledge and skills I need to thrive in this profession, and my other experiences during my career here will help me stand out from other candidates.

One cool thing is that NMU's school of nursing puts students in a wide variety of clinical settings during every semester of the program. Just a few of the clinical experiences I have gotten to do so far are flu shot and blood pressure clinics, intensive days at the nursing home, and immersion experiences at the hospital in Marquette.

I am a part of the Student Leader Fellowship Program, which is a 2-year intensive program involving leadership, service, and mentorship components. It has helped me learn how to function better as a leader and given me access to unique and eye-opening experiences. I'm an officer for Northern Michigan Artist Discovery (NoMAD); a student organization that bring in national touring artists to come play on campus, free of charge for students. This has given me a peek into the music and live event planning industry and connected me with a community of music lovers. I am also part of the student ambassadors, and get to share my NMU experience with the world, much like I am doing right now.

Being a Wildcat means bringing the pride and spirit of NMU with me everywhere I go. This means living every day to the fullest and taking advantage of opportunities that come my way. Immersing myself in the culture of NMU has opened doors for me that I didn't even know existed, and I think that Northern is unique in that it's so easy to get involved. Wildcats are smart, successful, love the outdoors, and ready to take on challenges as they come. 

I found belonging at NMU by seeking out communities of students that had were interested in the same things I was. Signing up for clubs and activities is the best way to meet people in college. I have met some of my closest friends through clubs that I am a part of, and was able to bond with them over our shared interests and passions. 

I would tell someone considering NMU to take the leap of faith and do it. I knew that this school was right for me in my gut, and haven't regretted coming here for a minute.
 

NMU has exceeded my expectations for my college experience. I have had an overwhelmingly positive time here full of growth, self-discovery, and lifelong friends and memories.