From Kenya to NIU STEAM: Learning, Belonging and Growing
By Ricky (Shem) Ogutu, NIU M.S.ED in Instructional Technology student and NIU STEAM graduate assistant
Ricky is one of our amazing graduate assistants here at NIU STEAM. We wanted to learn more about his experience at NIU and how his work with NIU STEAM is preparing him for a career in instructional technology. Here’s what Ricky shared with us.
I arrived in the U.S. from Kenya in January 2024, excited but nervous because adjusting to American English and a new academic culture was not easy at first. What made that transition smoother was how warmly I was welcomed at NIU STEAM, where I continue to work and grow.
Why NIU
I chose NIU because, as a high school teacher in Kenya, I saw a real need for better use of technology in education. I wanted to learn how to design learning experiences that solve instructional problems. That is why I am pursuing a Master’s in Instructional Technology to gain skills I can apply both locally and globally.
Finding Community at NIU STEAM
From my first days, I felt supported. Dr. Kristin Brynteson welcomed me and introduced me to the NIU STEAM afterschool program, where I met Jasmine and Christine (NIU STEAM instructors). They immediately made me feel like part of the team. I was also introduced to other NIU STEAM staff members who were genuinely happy to have me join.
Within a short time, I built strong friendships with fellow graduate assistants DP and Vish, and NIU STEAM quickly became a place where I felt I belonged not just as a student, but as a contributor.
Learning by Doing
NIU STEAM allows me to connect coursework to real practice. One of my class projects involved a usability test, which I completed using NIU STEAM afterschool learners. I also assist with STEAM Cafés, where I interact with community members and NIU staff, helping me build confidence, professional connections and a deeper appreciation for community-based learning.
I continue developing new skills through NIU STEAM through different tasks like lab assistance, video editing and production. While I am not an expert yet, I genuinely enjoy these projects and learn something new with each one. I like being challenged and growing through hands-on work.
I continue to be inspired by the encouragement I receive from the NIU STEAM team, including the former STEAM Coordinator, Russ, who motivates me to give my best in every task. I am especially grateful that NIU STEAM granted me an assistantship regardless of my background, an opportunity that has made a huge difference in my journey.
From NIU STEAM to CTA
My work at NIU STEAM directly supports my professional growth. After a conversation with Jasmine about gaining experience, I began applying for internships and was fortunate to receive three offers. I chose to intern at the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) because some of the roles align with what I learn through NIU STEAM and my ETRA coursework. The skills I use at CTA, like instructional design, usability, troubleshooting and media-based learning, are the same skills I continue to build here.
For me, NIU STEAM is not just where I work, it’s where I learn, grow, and feel that I truly belong as an aspiring instructional designer.
To see some of the work I’ve been doing in my CTA internship, take a look at my online portfolio.
