Why did you choose this degree -- and UNI?
I chose education because I’ve always been passionate about helping others learn and grow. UNI stood out to me because of its student-focused approach and the way it emphasizes hands-on learning through practicums. I wanted a program that would prepare me thoroughly for the classroom, and UNI delivered just that. It also showed me that I was never going to be treated like just a number on campus. The people here truly care about how successful you are going to be and how they can help get you there. 

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree)
I figured out that I wanted to be a teacher back in high school when I started tutoring younger kids and helping out in a special education class. It honestly just clicked for me how much I enjoy helping students. Whether it was breaking down something tricky or seeing that moment when a kid finally gets it, it felt so rewarding. Being in the special education class also taught me a lot about patience and understanding different ways people learn, which was really eye-opening. But overall, it was those experiences that made me realize I could actually make a difference, and that’s when I decided I wanted to go all in and pursue a career in education.

If you had a field experience, describe your experience and how it has prepared you for your career.
My student teaching experience was the most effective experience when it came to preparing me for my career. I had the privilege of doing four student teaching placements doing four weeks at a time -- which might seem crazy, but it was so beneficial. With that untraditional set-up I was able to learn from a variety of teachers in three content areas. As I had 4 weeks with each teacher I was able gain a wealth of knowledge as each of them have different teaching styles and approach different situations in a variety of ways. 

What does completing your degree mean to you?
Finishing my degree means a lot to me. It’s proof of all the effort I’ve put in and how much I care about teaching. There were a lot of ups and downs over this four-year journey, so the degree seems to make it all worth the struggle. It’s the start of making my dream career happen and actually making a difference for students. 

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
In my first few years, I struggled finding my people and the organizations that I should be a part of to make UNI feel like home. I felt out of touch and did not have a place. However, once I put myself out there, I found my niche. I was able to get involved in organizations like Orientation and Cat Crew, along with working on campus, which then helped me get out of my shell. Once I got out of my shell, I found that the academic side of things fell into place better, and it was easier to manage things. By being involved, it helped me gain skills in time management, communication and professionalism that then helped me get through to graduation easier. 

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
UNI played a huge role in helping me achieve my goals, not just through academics, but also with extracurricular activities. Being involved in clubs and organizations gave me the chance to connect with peers who shared similar passions, work on leadership skills and contribute to the community. These experiences were just as important as the classroom learning—they helped me build confidence, teamwork and creativity, which are all essential for being a great teacher. Between the supportive professors, hands-on teaching opportunities and extracurriculars, UNI gave me everything I needed to grow into the educator I want to be.

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. Do you have an example or experience of how one or more of these statements rings true for you?
UNI truly stood out to me because of how supportive and student-focused the professors were. They didn’t just teach—they took the time to guide me and help me grow, not only as a future educator but as an individual. The faculty and staff genuinely cared about helping me become the best version of myself, and I never felt like just a number. They made an effort to know me as a person and support me every step of the way. Another aspect that made UNI unique was the collaboration with neighboring K-12 districts. Through these partnerships, I gained hands-on experience that shaped my understanding of teaching and learning. Working directly with students in real classrooms taught me so much about adaptability, building connections, and the practical side of education. These opportunities, along with the incredible mentorship from faculty and staff, made UNI the perfect place to prepare for my career and personal growth.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
Being a part of the Orientation staff was my best memory at UNI.  I gained so much from being a part of that team and I met some of my best friends. Without that experience I would not be the person I am now. It helped me grow more as an individual than I could have thought. It was great being a part of something bigger than myself. I got the opportunity to show students and families why UNI is the place for them. 

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
Your experience is what you make it. College can be the biggest growth years of your life and it all starts with how involved you get. There are plenty of student organizations and ways to get involved on campus. Try to avoid just working and going to class--you are allowed to do fun things! This is how you can build relationships that will last a lifetime. 

What's next?
For next school year, I have accepted a third grade position in the Greater Cedar Valley.