NIU, my university, has been getting a lot of attention in the past day. It probably hasn't and won't breach outside of the Chicago area, but it's something that is worrying me.

We have a student missing. Freshman, aged 18, photography major. Art major. My family. Lives in my dorm. Two doors down.

I don't know her; my experience with most students here is a passing glance or seeing them at meal times. Her, I at least saw in and around the complex and floor meetings. She's a nice girl, quiet girl. And she's missing.

Friday night, police came around asking about her. Now it's Tuesday, and the searches are becoming more intense and involved. But it worries me. In fact...I can't help but fear the absolute worst.

I don't her. But I all I can think of are the people who do. The most gut-wrenching was one of her art teachers who came into the office yesterday, he just looked so empty at the words.

People can be here and than gone faster than you know it. I pray she is alright but it's harder to fight off that dreading doubt.