Student spotlight: Lilly Niese
Hailing from Eau Claire, WI, Lilly Niese is a recent graduate from the School of Kinesiology’s physical activity and health promotion (PAHP) program.
As a child, Lilly's aspirations ranged widely, from becoming a writer to a veterinarian, illustrating her diverse interests. Today, she sets her sights on a career in medical sales or public health.
Lilly’s academic journey began at the University of La Crosse, where she initially majored in Biology. However, she transferred to the University of Minnesota after a year, switching from special education to PAHP. This shift was driven by her interest in wellness and the practical applicability of the PAHP degree.
"My favorite aspect of the PAHP major is the diversity of the course material," Lilly shares. In particular, she cites the lifetime health and wellness class, which gave her a comprehensive view of how wellness impacts individuals over a lifetime. On the flip side, she says that exercise physiology was her most challenging course, requiring her to grasp the intricate impacts of exercise on the human body.
"My favorite aspect of the PAHP major is the diversity of the course material."
Lilly’s interactions with faculty have been a highlight of her academic experience. She notes how professors took the time to know her name and career goals and her appreciation for the personal relationships she built with faculty.
One of the surprising aspects of the PAHP major for Lilly is its broad applicability. "The wellness and health of society will be a pillar of existence for years to come," she notes, emphasizing the profound impact her degree can have on various sectors.
Outside the classroom, Lilly has actively engaged in experiences that complement her academic pursuits. She was a member of the University of Minnesota Special Olympics Club and works as a tutor. She also interned at positions in medical device sales and public health. Lilly cites these experiences as having helped her develop her interpersonal skills and providing practical insights, as well as how they’ve been valuable in teaching her how to positively impact individuals' lives.
For Lilly, the friendships she has forged at the U stand out as her favorite part of her college experience. "I met some of my closest friends through class and volunteer work," she says, expressing gratitude for the relationships that have enriched her educational journey.
As she graduates, Lilly offers valuable advice to incoming students: "Stay driven. I transferred to the U my sophomore year and had changed majors three times. However, I stayed eager to earn an education, better myself, and aid my career goals. There will always be struggles and unknowns, but being able to persevere is the greatest teller of success."
