DEKALB – Lexie Williams, 18, of Stillman Valley, is part of the Research Rookies Program at Northern Illinois University.

The freshman is a nursing major at NIU. She works under the guidance of Professor Donna Plonczynski. The goal of Williams' research is to improve the attitudes of adolescent mothers in the great Elgin area with and without birth experience.

As part of the program, Williams, a 2012 graduate of Stillman Valley High School, studies advanced research techniques and how to write a formal research proposal, and takes part in professional and academic enrichment activities. She will present findings at the annual Undergraduate Research and Artistry Day next spring. Research Rookies also receive a $500 scholarship.