Why did you choose this degree -- and to pursue this degree at UNI?

I love working with kids and want to be able to create my own welcoming classroom for years to come. I chose UNI for the flexible online education program that it offered with the 2+2 program (now Online Transfer Program).

What path did you take to achieve your degree?

I worked as a support staff at an elementary school for a few years and teachers started saying I should go back to school and get my teaching license. I realized they were right and I couldn't see myself doing anything else so here I am now.

Describe any field experience and how it has prepared you for your career. 

I did student teaching at a great elementary school in Davenport in kindergarten and 4th grade. Over the four months I made relationships with the staff and kids there that will last a lifetime. I learned much about who I am as a teacher and areas I still need to grow in.

What does completing your degree mean to you?

It means moving on to the next chapter in my life. A few years ago I never would have thought I'd go back to school to be a teacher and now I couldn't see myself doing anything else.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?

The biggest challenge was working a full-time job and doing classes in the evening. The workload could often be a lot so you needed to pace yourself. I had to learn the right way for me to be successful doing online classes and managing my time wisely.

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?

UNI helped me achieve my goals with the 2+2 program and being able to attend a school in Iowa. Even virtually, the staff were all in Iowa and the others in the program were as well so even though we were never in the same room and all over the state we had that common bond.

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 these statements ring true for you?

I think for me statement two hits home because every professor I had was amazing. They did care and they wanted us to have questions. Teaching people how to teach virtually is hard, but they always did it with a smile on their face even as 25 students stared at them through Webcams, exhausted because it was almost 9 p.m. They understood many of us were full-time workers and full-time students. We were balancing life with school and they helped us find that line.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?

My best memory of my time at UNI is likely going to be when I walk across the stage for graduation. I didn't think about doing it originally since we would have to drive, but my grandparents had other opinions for me.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?

For me, my advice is for students looking at teaching but who need a more flexible school schedule. The 2+2 program is for you. They will help you become a great educator and guide you every step of the way.

What’s next? 

I plan to be in a classroom somewhere with a teaching job. Not sure where yet!