Why did you choose this degree -- and to pursue this degree at UNI?
I have always wanted to be a teacher! It is so fulfilling to know the impact I can have and the connections I will build with my future students. UNI really helped me make my dream a reality. 

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree (always knew this was what you wanted, discovered your passion along the way?)
I always knew this was meant for me! I started with a Strat 2 minor and added SEL because I thought they really went hand in hand. I applied for student teaching and really felt like I wasn't done yet or I was still missing something. So, I decided to stay at UNI for a little longer and get an Art Ed. minor as well. It was a longer journey, but I really feel like I got every single thing I could've wanted out of my time at UNI!

If you had an internship/practicum/field experience, describe your experience and how it has prepared you for your career.
I've had tons of practicums in the teaching field, but one that sticks out is when I co-taught with a friend of mine. We have both gone on to accept special education positions. It was a very fun, collaborative time that I look back on fondly.

What does completing your degree mean to you?
It really means finding my voice, making my own path, and creating a space in this world where my students feel like they belong. I am so excited to go out into the world and become the teacher I've always wanted to be! 

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
I had a very heavy course load with 3 minors! I was also involved in student leadership, so at times it felt like I was being dragged in a million directions, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I was able to experience so much!

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
UNI professors, staff, and cooperating teachers are so supportive. I really feel like they just want all of their students to succeed and find where they shine. I could not have done it without them! 

We often say UNI is ... 1) student focused; 2) a place where professors care--and teach; 3) a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom;  and 4) is perfectly sized. Do you have an example or experience of how one or more of these statements rings true for you?
One of my practicum experiences in particular was very challenging, but my professors were there all hours of the day to support us. They knew that we would grow a lot during this placement and never failed to give us feedback and support. 

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
I really loved winning a student leadership award! It was one of the most fulfilling and grounding moments I had at UNI.  

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
Get involved in everything! Even if you're scared, even if you're not sure you'll like it or fit in, do it anyways. You will always learn something and you never know what you can accomplish or who you will meet! 

What do you plan to do with your degree? Do you already know next steps/have a position?
I have accepted a position next year as a special education teacher at Waverly-Shell Rock Middle School!