Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI? 
UNI immediately felt like home after touring. I knew I wanted to become a physical therapist and the athletic training major offered a hands-on approach I knew I would love and would help prepare me for grad school.

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree? 
Since I was five years old I’ve always said I wanted to be a doctor or a teacher. After being in physical therapy myself for many years, I knew that is what I wanted to do. It combines the medical field with teaching patients and is the perfect balance for me.

What does completing your degree mean to you?
Completing my degree is just a stepping stone for me. I plan on earning my Doctorate of Physical Therapy at Allen College in Waterloo, IA.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree? How did you overcome them? 
I was thinking about graduating in three years, instead of four. Unfortunately scheduling did not work out so I had to choose to either stay around for another entire year, or take a one semester break and then take one final course. I chose to stay around for an entire year and was able to add my coaching minor because I needed credits. I was more than happy that I was able to get my coaching minor and I stuck around.

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
UNI helped prepare me for grad school and enabled me to build connections with numerous people that will continue to help me throughout my life.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
My favorite aspect of UNI was meeting with prospective students and teaching them about our athletic training program and campus. I was the President of “College of Education Student Ambassadors” for two years and absolutely loved the organization. 

What advice would you give to students considering UNI? 
Go on numerous visits and meet with students. Ask questions and remember how the visit made you feel. Don’t be intimidated by students, we’re all here to help you and have fun and only want what’s best for you!

What are your next steps? 
I plan on attending Allen College to earn my Doctorate of Physical Therapy and hope to specialize in pediatrics.