Like Nearly 40% of Huskies, Business Student Lilly Klassen Will Graduate Debt-free
When Lilly Klassen began courses in the NIU College of Business in 2022, she knew an affordable undergraduate education was her priority from the start.
“It was important to me to graduate without debt so I can pursue other educational opportunities, like a future MBA, without financial burden,” she said.
This December, Klassen will reach her goal as she earns her B.S. in human resource management, as well as her B.S. in finance and a certificate in professional selling, without using any college loans.
“Graduating without debt will greatly impact many of my decisions and opportunities post-graduation,” Klassen said. “My parents often worked two jobs while I was growing up so they could support my three siblings and me. I hope graduating without debt and receiving a bachelor’s degree will help me financially support my future family but also allow me time to be present at home.”
Additionally, Klassen hopes being debt-free will allow her to travel and explore the world. Until now, she hasn’t left the U.S., but she hopes to in the years after graduation.
Klassen was able to pay for her degrees without taking on debt thanks to a generous merit scholarship and financial aid. She has also lived at home in Sycamore, Illinois, with her parents throughout her college years. Working part time during school and full time during the summer, she paid off any personal expenses while building her résumé with internship experience.
Nearly 40% of undergraduate Huskies earn their bachelor’s degrees without any student loan debt, and Klassen’s story — while inspiring — is not atypical for our determined Huskies.
Along with her scholarship and aid, Klassen credits her parents for their support.
“My parents played the biggest role in helping me navigate college without debt,” she said. “Not only did they provide me with a home, but they paid for my phone bill, groceries and car insurance.”
Klassen plans to work as a full-time human resources assistant after graduation, and she is already applying to companies to begin in January. Her long-term goal is to become a director or vice president of human resources for a corporation or smaller firm.
Her advice to other students who want to graduate debt-free?
“If possible, take advantage of living at home or splitting housing costs with friends,” she said. “Even if you don’t live on campus, you can still be involved with student organizations, campus events and more. NIU has so much to offer. Just remember — you get out what you put in.”
Learn more about scholarships at NIU.
