How did you end up at UNI?

I chose UNI for both my bachelor's and master's degrees as UNI was a great fit with the size of campus, everyone is so welcoming, and it felt like home once I stepped foot on campus when I was 18. It just seemed natural to complete my master's degree here, as well!

Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?

I worked in the alumni relations office for two years before starting this degree. My supervisor at the time had a degree in student affairs and with the work I was doing, it sparked my interest in the program. I reached out to (David Schmid) "Schmiddy" for more information and decided I wanted to be a part of the program and I am so happy that I completed here at UNI.

What’s been your favorite experience at UNI so far?

I have been both an undergraduate and master's student, and for the last four years, I have been an employee at UNI. It has been so fun going from being a student to now serving the student body as an academic advisor for the athletics department. There are too many great experiences to name just one. I really enjoy connecting with my students and hearing their stories about what UNI has done for them.

How has UNI helped you achieve your goals?

UNI has helped me achieve my goals by preparing me for my future in both of my degrees. It was a place where I developed so many friendships and found myself and the career I was meant for.

What challenges have you faced as you've worked toward this degree – and how have you overcome them?

As I worked towards this degree, I have overcome the challenges of being a working professional, a wife, and a mother. I was able to work full-time while being a part-time student. I already had a son at home, and in year two of the program, I had twin girls, all while finishing the program on time. I am very proud of the challenges I overcame and it showed me how strong I could be by persevering! 

We often say UNI is student focused; a place where professors care--and teach; a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom;  and is perfectly sized. How do one or more of these statements ring true for you?

I agree with all of these things. An example of learning that happens in and out of the classroom would be while working as an academic advisor while going through the program. I was able to put the things I was learning in the classroom to immediate use while working in my full-time position.

What advice would you give to students considering coming to UNI for graduate studies?

I would tell future students that UNI is a great place to earn a degree as the professors truly care about their students and their goals, plus there are so many different ways to complete a program that can be achieved in a variety of ways.

What three adjectives describe yourself?

Dedicated, Motivated, Approachable

Next steps? 

I plan to continue my full-time work as an athletics academic advisor for the Office of Student Athlete Development for UNI Athletics after graduating this December. (Update: Amy now serves as a professional academic advisor in the Office of Professional Distinction in the Wilson College of Business.)