NIU Celebrates the Fierce Gamer Scholarship Recipients

This year, Northern Illinois University (NIU) has proudly announced the recipients of the Fierce Gamer Scholarship: Frida Peralta, Jillian Thomason, and Ethan Gamble. Since its inception in 2022 by Dr. Levi Harrison, seven students have benefited from this $1,000 scholarship. It honors NIU students who promote physical, mental, and emotional health within the gaming community while fostering inclusivity. Dr. Harrison, an orthopedic surgeon known as "the gamers and esports doctor," is also a mental health advocate deeply engaged with the esports world. Partnering with NIU Esports, he contributes to events like Healthy Gaming Day and offers tools such as the Fierce Gamer app to enhance gamer well-being.

The scholarship reflects a commitment to integrating gaming into a balanced lifestyle. Recipients exemplify dedication not only to their studies but also to supporting the esports community. Each winner shares personal insights on how they've achieved balance and improved their gaming habits. Their stories highlight the importance of mindfulness, time management, and giving back to their communities, underscoring Dr. Harrison's vision for healthier gaming practices.

Promoting Balanced Gaming Practices

The Fierce Gamer Scholarship emphasizes fostering healthy gaming habits among students. Through initiatives led by Dr. Levi Harrison, NIU encourages students to maintain equilibrium between academics, rest, exercise, and gaming. The program teaches participants about prioritizing self-care while engaging in competitive gaming environments.

Dr. Harrison’s contributions extend beyond financial support; his partnership with NIU includes creating resources like the Fierce Gamer app, which provides exercises, meditations, and nutritional advice. These tools aim to equip gamers with strategies for sustaining both physical and mental health. By collaborating with NIU Esports, Dr. Harrison ensures that students receive comprehensive guidance on maintaining wellness during their academic journey. His efforts inspire students to integrate mindful practices into daily routines, promoting long-term benefits beyond gaming achievements.

Spotlight on Scholarship Winners

This year's awardees bring unique perspectives to the conversation around healthy gaming. Frida Peralta, majoring in sociology, discusses overcoming an unhealthy gaming schedule during the pandemic and rediscovering balance at NIU. Jillian Thomason, a statistics major and member of NIU's Overwatch team, advocates for mental health awareness in gaming through her presentations and writings. Ethan Gamble, studying computer science and also part of the Overwatch team, shares lessons learned from a past wrist injury sustained due to overuse.

Frida recounts how joining NIU's gaming community helped her reestablish boundaries after excessive screen time. Jillian highlights the critical role of mental clarity in teamwork-oriented games, emphasizing preparation techniques like stretching and mindfulness. Meanwhile, Ethan reflects on the necessity of preventive measures to avoid injuries, advocating for simple yet effective exercises before gaming sessions. Together, these three individuals embody the values promoted by the Fierce Gamer Scholarship, demonstrating leadership and responsibility within the esports realm while excelling academically.