Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?
UNI caught my attention because of its well-known and high-quality education program. After coming on my first visit to campus, it felt like home. There was a sense of community that drew me closer as well. I found closure in knowing that the school was small enough that I could still build relationships with my professors and peers but still gave the whole college feel and experience.

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree?
Ever since I was a little girl, I knew that I wanted to become a teacher. My favorite after-school activity was coming home and "playing school." I had several amazing teachers growing up that inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a difference in others' lives as they did mine. I couldn't imagine doing anything else!

What does completing your degree mean to you?
Completing this degree is a big deal. To me, it verifies that I am one step closer to reaching my lifelong goal of becoming an educator. All of my hard work and effort over the course of many years has finally paid off. This degree reassures me that I am doing something that I am meant to do.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I encountered during my time at UNI was overcoming changes regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. I was a freshman, starting my second semester and finally starting to get more comfortable with college, classes, and making connections, when we got the notification that we were being sent home. This transition was very difficult for me because as someone who thrives on building relationships, the distance behind the Zoom screen made it harder to build those connections. It also made it hard to get into the classroom and complete the necessary field experiences. However, I was very thankful to have an amazing support group among my teachers and other staff members. They were constantly reminding their students that things would get figured out and that regardless of the different circumstances, we would get through this together!

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
One of the best things about UNI, in my opinion, is the incredible staff. I took so many different courses where my professor made a lasting impact on me and my education. I learned so much from them beyond the curriculum. Their willingness to share their own personal experiences and advice as an educator made all the difference in my experiences. I feel very fortunate that I had many opportunities to build strong relationships with those professors. Their endless support and guidance really helped me in reaching my goals.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
My best UNI memory happened during the second semester of my junior year when I decided to join the PDS (professional development school) program to complete all of my methods courses. I spent this semester taking classes daily at Irving Elementary in Waterloo. What made this experience so rewarding was the community that was built. I made so many new friends, built strong relationships with my professors, and made connections with staff members of the school. My classroom experience heightened during this semester. Almost every day we were visiting a class and interacting with students. So many kiddos touched my heart and made me a better teacher. This is an experience I will never forget!​

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
The best advice I can give to students considering UNI is to follow your heart and do what you think is best for you. I knew as soon as I came to visit, this was the school for me. I could not imagine obtaining my degree and having these experiences anywhere else. When making your decision, if UNI feels like home to you, take the chance! Going forward the best advice I can give is to build connections, work hard, and always remember why you’re here.

What's next?
Next semester, I will be completing my student teaching experience as one last step in finalizing my college degree. After that, my goal is to obtain an elementary teaching job. As of right now, I don’t have any set plans on where I want to go or what grade I want to teach. The future for me is still up in the air! Nevertheless, I am beyond excited to see what the future holds and what is in store for me.