When Ross Curnow, ’14, first toured college campuses in the Midwest, he thought baseball might guide his path. But something about the University of Northern Iowa felt different. “It wasn’t quantifiable in one way or another. It just felt right,” he says. The energy of the McLeod Center, the bustle of Maucker Union and the overall feel of campus — it all clicked. That instinct would guide him for years to come.

Curnow arrived at UNI in 2010 with a curiosity for history and a desire to explore big ideas. He majored in history and completed his studies with honors in the University Honors Program. His thesis examined “The Interpersonal Lives of College Students and the Interrelationship with Social Media,” offering an early look at a rapidly changing social landscape. Professors including Lindsay Cohn, Marybeth Stalp and Jay Lees challenged him to think critically, write clearly and explore complex questions, preparing him for the next stage of his career.

Outside the classroom, Curnow embraced the full campus experience. He found community and leadership in the Greek system, serving as fraternity president. He also made time to enjoy UNI as a vibrant, engaged campus. “At least when I was there, campus was pretty vibrant, and the weekends were very vibrant. You put your books aside for a couple days and go out there and learn how to interact like a human being.” For Curnow, this balance of work, study and social life helped him grow both personally and professionally.

UNI’s combination of rigorous academics and opportunities for growth prepared Curnow not only for law school but for life beyond college. He credits his history coursework with teaching him how to absorb material, synthesize information and approach problems strategically — skills he draws on daily as a law firm partner.

Even today, Curnow stays connected to the university. He enjoys taking his young son around campus, revisiting favorite spots and cheering for the Panthers. “UNI is a hidden gem of a school. It’s perfect,” he says. Those mornings spent studying in the Union, balancing work and reflection, remain some of his fondest memories and a reminder of how much college shaped him.

Curnow’s time at UNI shows how a sense of place, rigorous study and engagement with community come together to shape a person’s path. For him, the university wasn’t just a backdrop for classes — it was a space to think deeply, lead confidently and connect meaningfully, lessons that continue to resonate in work, family and community life.