Northern Michigan University graduating senior Lynda “Lyndie” Unterkircher of Sturgis finds herself in a position she never could have predicted when she first arrived on campus. The first-generation college student and self-described “quiet person” is the newly selected student speaker for NMU's Dec. 11 commencement. Her decision to apply for the honor is emblematic of her Northern experience, which has been defined by opportunities to push herself beyond her comfort zone and achieve personal growth.
“This was something I never thought I would do, but I completed the application and submitted a video of my speech,” she said. “During my time at Northern, I have tried to take as many risks as I could. Each one has turned out as either a great additional memory or a moment of growth. The Student Leader Fellowship Program is a big reason for that because it involves a lot of communication, teamwork and leadership. I'm just getting myself out there more and letting my voice be heard.”
Unterkircher will earn her bachelor's degree in biology with a concentration in physiology. She said her speech to fellow graduates will revolve around three themes: slow down; be intentional; and lead with love.
“One of the things I live by is intention versus impact. The best intentions don't always lead to a positive impact, so it's important to consider the outcomes of our actions before we take them. And love can look different for everyone. We know bad actions can be made out of love, but so can revolution. It's important to be intentional about our approach so that it's with compassion and love for others.”
As an Early Middle College participant in her hometown, Unterkircher earned both her high school diploma and an associate degree in science. She transferred to Northern, where both her academics and involvement in activities intensified.
“I came up here for a visit and fell in love with the area. Everyone in Marquette is so inviting. I liked Northern's smaller size. Interacting one on one with professors is especially important in the sciences.”
Unterkircher was on the Hunt Hall government and a member of the Pre-Med Club, Feminism for All, Superior Edge and Mortar Board. She served as social media chair and as a member of the selection and recruitment committee for the Student Leader Fellowship Program. Her required SLFP community service internship was directing events and communications for the Mind Your Health student organization, which works with administration to provide and promote mental health resources.
Her SLFP mentor, social work professor Sarah Carlson, helped Unterkircher secure an internship as a victim's advocate at the Delta Regional Child Advocacy Center. NMU's Social Work Department and the Center for Native American Studies, in conjunction with the Walking the Path Together project, connects interested students with rural tribal communities for internship placements.
Energized by that experience, Unterkircher is planning to pursue a master's degree in social work following a post-graduation gap year, then might revisit her original plan of going to medical school.
NMU's in-person commencement begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, in the Superior Dome. The ceremony will be live streamed on www.nmu.edu/commencement and broadcast on WNMU-TV.