Student Spotlight: Amanda Trotz
By Tony Scott
Amanda Trotz has a goal of becoming a pediatric intensive care nurse. (Photo provided by Amanda Trotz)
NIU junior Amanda Trotz, who aims to graduate in May 2027 with a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing, has the profession in her genes: both her mother and grandmother are nurses.
“Their passion for caring for others deeply inspired my decision to pursue this path,” Trotz said.
Trotz has a career goal of becoming a pediatric intensive care nurse.
“I have a longstanding passion for working with children and feel that I can connect with them in a meaningful and compassionate way,” she said. “While I am currently undecided about pursuing education beyond my bachelor's degree, I remain open to opportunities for professional growth and further learning in the future.”
Trotz, who grew up in the northern Illinois town of Marengo, attended NIU football games in her youth and appreciated both the campus atmosphere and its proximity to her hometown.
After deciding to enroll at NIU, she applied for and received numerous scholarships funded by generous donors to help her attain her goals, including the M. Catherine Burkhart Excellence Fund, the Ruth I. Hall Endowed Nursing Scholarship, the Phyllis L. Ross Memorial Scholarship in Nursing, the Marian Frerichs Nursing Scholarship Fund, and the Harold W. Finney and Janet P. Finney Medical Memorial Scholarship Fund.
“Thanks to the generous scholarships I have been awarded, I’m able to focus fully on my education without the added stress of financial burdens,” she said.
Before she received the scholarships, Trotz had started her nursing school journey and was overwhelmed by the challenge of balancing work, school expenses and study time.
“At that same time, my grandfather, whom I called Papa, was critically ill and hospitalized,” she said. “Just days before his passing, I started receiving emails from the scholarship office. In that moment, amid hardship, I truly felt it was God’s way of reminding me that everything would be okay—and that I was exactly where I was meant to be.”
Trotz praised assistant professor Stephanie Uhr, Ph.D., for being a supportive mentor.
“Dr. Uhr was my instructor for NURS 302 last semester, and she is truly one of the kindest and most supportive educators I’ve had the privilege of learning from,” Trotz said. “She genuinely understands the demands of nursing school and consistently advocates for her students. Dr. Uhr made it a priority to check in with us regularly, offering encouragement and reminding us that we are capable of overcoming the challenges of nursing school.”
Even as she attends school, she has worked as a patient care technician at Northwestern Medicine in Huntley, Illinoi since she was 17.
“When I began my college journey, I transitioned to a PRN – or per diem nursing - role to better balance work and academics,” she said. “I continue to pick up shifts as often as possible to support myself through school and invest in my future. Balancing a rigorous nursing program with 12-hour shifts can be challenging, so managing my time effectively has become essential.”
Trotz also continues to be active in her nursing school community and other organizations. She serves on the Student Advisory Council and is a member and merchandising director of the Student Nurses' Organization Executive Board. She also works as a peer tutor for pathophysiology.
“I’m passionate about giving back to the School of Nursing, as it has given so much to me,” she said.
She is also a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority, where she has formed a number of close friendships and serves as its communications director.
“Additionally, I had the opportunity to participate in the Penguin Players organization at NIU last year—an experience that holds some of my most cherished memories during my time here,” she said.
The Penguin Players are part of the Penguin Project, which pairs college students with people with special needs for a live musical theater production.
Trotz is incredibly grateful to those who support scholarships, and encourages others to do so.
“To the generous individuals who donate to support student scholarships, I want you to know that your contributions have the power to truly change a student’s life,” she said. “In moments when the world feels like it is crashing down, your kindness and generosity provide not only financial relief but also a profound sense of hope and encouragement. Your support is making a meaningful impact and helping shape the next generation of professionals who will go on to serve and strengthen our communities.”
To help Huskies like Amanda achieve their goals, please visit the NIU Forward website.