As a Parent ...
Many students find that working a part-time job helps put structure in their schedule and create deadlines. Many student report that a part-time job is helpful as long as the student keeps academic priorities as their number one commitment. NIU provides students with many opportunities for employment in an academic friendly environment.
As a Student ...
As a student at NIU you may find the jobs on campus are more academic friendly than other jobs. You may also find that it takes time to find a successful balance between academics and work. Some students find that a job actually helps them manage their time because it helps students create deadlines.
Students you may also want to consider becoming a community advisor in one of the residence halls.
Useful Links
As a Parent ...
Roommates can become wonderful friends and in most cases they do. As parents you are well aware that it's natural for people who live together to disagree sometimes. Many students have found that if they communicate their needs clearly and set up some ground rules with their roommates students may prevent alot of unnecesary issues from surfacing. When issues do surface students have access to a number of mediation services at NIU.
As a Student ...
STEPS to taking care of roommate issues:
1. PREVENTION: When you first move in make sure you discuss your expectations for sharing a room with your roommate. This worksheet may help you figure out some topics to cover wth your roommate in advance.
If you are having a difficulties with your housing arrangment make sure to visit the housing office in Neptune East and put your name on a waiting list to get a new room.
Useful Links
- Student's Legal Assistance, (815)753-1701
- Housing & Dining Services, East Neptune Hall, (815)753-1525
- Surviving your Roommates
- Roommate Challenges?
- Roommate Agreement
As a Parent ...
No matter how independent a student was at home he/she may experience loneliness and other feelings related to homesickness. Students report that they miss their parents, friends and Mom's cooking. Many students enjoy receiving care packages and phone calls from their loved ones. Often students find it helpful to establish a regular schedule or routine. For example, it may help to remind to ask your student about their routine or schedule. Often when so many things are changing in your students life the basics such as maintaining a regular schedule for sleeping and eating becomes mixed up and forgotten all together.
When your child leaves home...
As a Student ...
Student's... homesickness is a normal part of going away to school for many students across campus. Even students who have been on campus for a few years experience some degree of missing home when they get back. The most important thing you can do if you are feeling homesick is to reach out to others. You can always talk to your CA, CHANCE Counselor, Professor, Advisor or other staff. You can also call schedule an appt with Counseling & Student Development to talk about your feelings. Many students report that finding groups or activities to get involved in can be helpful. Calling loved ones, decorating your room with mementoes or pictures can help ease the pain. Keep in mind that these feelings aren't going to last forever.
Useful Links
- NIU Health Enhancement Services
- CHANCE Program, East Williston Hall, 753-0201
- Counseling Student Development, Campus Life 200, 753-1206
- Family Center, 753-1684
- Psychological Services, 753-0591
- CREATE YOUR OWN ROUTINE SCHEDULE
- Saying Goodbye to the Old & Hello to the New! this web site has several articles to help you think more about the upcoming changes that will occur in your life
As a Parent ...
NIU has an organization specifically for parents, Parents Association. We encourage parents to get involved in this organization. It can be a difficult transition when your student leaves home and this organization may assist you as you work through the changes you encounter with your son or daughter leaving home.
As a Student ...
It is important to get involved in order to feel welcome. Opening yourself up to diverse experiences and cultures is part of an important learning process that can take place for you at NIU. All students are welcome and invited to visit and take part in any of the centers listed.
Useful Links
Student Association
(815) 753-0483Residence Hall Association
815-752-1097Affirmative Action & Diversity Resources
1515 West Lincoln Hwy, Dekalb, IL. 60115
Phone: 815-753-1118 Fax: 815-753-1001Commuter & Non-Traditional Student Services
(815) 753-9999Center for Black Studies
(815) 753-1423Women's Resource Center
(815) 753-0320Lesbian, Bisexual Gay and Transgender Resource Center
(815) 753-5428Center for Access-Ability Resources
(815) 753-1303Latino Resource Center
(815) 753-1986
As a Parent ...
Moving out of your home and moving into another home can be both challenging and rewarding for you and your son or daughter. Change and transition can be difficult for anyone. It may be helpful for you and your student to get as much information about housing before this change occurs. Understanding what residence life is like may help you and your student prepare the change. You may want to look at the residence hall floorplans, check out the Housing Website and read more about residence hall life. We recommend that your student also talk to his or her roommate in advance of moving. Having an open mind and the willingness to try new things can help students adjust.
As a Student ...
Students if you are having difficulties with housing. Contact the Community Advisor (CA) on your floor. As you CA to discuss options with you. Also, you can contact Housings' main office. Your CHANCE Counselor can work to support you through any difficulties. CHANCE's Financial Aid Counselors may also be able to provide assistance for any financial problems you may encounter with housing. All incoming students are expected to live in the residence halls. Please know that exceptions are made, to find out if you qualify for one of these exceptions call Housing & Dining Services.
Useful Links
- Move in Day Information
- Housing & Dining Services, East Neptune Hall, (815)753-1525
- Residence Hall Floor Plans
- Ombudsman
As a Parent ...
NIU has an excellent transportation service that extends into DeKalb's shopping district. In most cases students do not need cars.
As a Student ...
FEES for Common Parking Violations:
Failure to report changes that affect parking privileges: $5
Failure to use flashers in a loading/unloading space: $5
Handicapped space use violation: $250
Improper parking: $10
Meter violation: $10
No NIU Registration: $40
Permit not displayed: $2.
No parking zone: $40 Overtime in 15-minute space: $20
Parked in reserved spaces: $80
Permit not valid for lot: $40
Resident restricted zone: $10*Students will not have access to the release of many records until fees and fines are paid.
FYI: Students can't register for classes until fees paid.Useful Links
- The Huskie Bus Line
- Campus Parking Services
121 Normal Road, DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone: (815) 753-1045
Fax: (815) 753-3315
Monday - Friday 7:45am - 4:30 pm
As a Parent ...
Many student's decide to live off campus with friends. Students can benefit from having an open discussion with you concerning the costs and liabilities associated with living off campus.
As a Student ...
It is strongly recommended that you discuss living off campus with Student's Legal Assistance. to learn about the responsibility of signing a lease. They also provide services to help student deal with roommate issues. They also have a guide for students that helps them complete a thorough check-in. These legal services are free for students.
Useful Links
Renter's Ratings to see how other students rate management companies in the area.
Student's Legal Assistance, (815)753-1701