A chemistry major in the Class of 2026, Michaela Klein won’t miss the Illinois campus after graduation, because she will be pursuing a second degree in Atmospheric Sciences at Illinois.
“There are many routes my future can take, but currently, my career goals are becoming an aviation meteorologist and obtaining a pilot’s license,” said Klein, who was a member of Outdoor Adventure Club (OAC) at Illinois.
“Spending time in the natural world is one of my top priorities and sources of fulfillment. OAC gave me the outlet to do so,” Klein said.
She said she met lifelong friends in OAC and logged some great experiences, including going off the grid for over a week with camping gear strapped in kayaks as they traversed between the Apostle Islands. She also backpacked in Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois and canoed along the Green River in Kentucky.
“This organization fostered work-life balance for me, enabling me to return to my studies with a fresh mind and excel in my courses,” Klein said.
Klein said CHEM 232-Organic Chemistry taught by Jordan Axelson opened a whole new world of curiosity for her, while PHYS 101- Mechanics taught by Katie Ansell led her to realize physics is where her interest in chemistry stems from, and ATMS 201 – Physicial Meteorology taught by Jessie Choate tied it all together and revealed the intersection of all her scientific passions.
“Taking these courses marked key points in my progression of further discovering, developing and refining my inherent enthusiasm for science. I was lucky to take them with such influential professors and instructors,” said Klein, who made the university’s Dean’s List.
Despite the great adventures and the transformative experiences in class, it’s her work as a TA that Klein ranks as the “absolute major highlight” of her time at Illinois.
For six semesters she was a Teaching Assistant for CHEM 232 – Organic Chemistry, taught by Axelson, director of undergraduate studies and senior lecturer in chemistry. Klein was also an organic chemistry Merit Instructor as part of the Merit Program directed by Elise McCarren.
As a TA, Klein prepared weekly mini-lecture presentations and problem sets, held office hours, and assisted with proctoring exams. She made the list of Teachers Ranked as Excellent by students in two consecutive semesters.
“Instructing merit discussion sections has refined my skills of adaptability, leadership and patience, as well as strengthened my ability to efficiently communicate information to others and cultivate a supportive community,” Klein said. “This experience truly shaped me into who I’ve become. I give my deepest thanks to both Jordan and Elise for extending their trust to me and taking me under their wing.”
Klein said she couldn’t imagine her undergraduate experience without Prof. Axelson’s influence. From her perspective as a student and a TA, Klein said Prof. Axelson is a gem.
“She pours so much into teaching her organic chemistry course and it shows. When I took her class during the fall 2022 semester, I knew from the first lecture with her that I was going to come out at the other end feeling inspired,” Klein said. “I’m filled with such pride to have spent the last few years at this university, as it has shaped me intellectually and personally for the better. I’ve gained insight, wisdom and skills that I wouldn’t have otherwise if it wasn’t for the opportunities I have had at the University of Illinois. I’ll continue to cherish them as I move onto my next chapter.”