Special minors or areas of emphasis:
Strength and Conditioning; Health Education

How did you decide on your path of study?
I actually had no clue that I wanted to teach physical education. Up until orientation, I was certain I was going to do elementary education. However, when asked what I wanted to major in, I panicked because I knew it was just not the right fit. When it came down to those final seconds, I knew how much I loved to be active, and I wanted to pursue that passion and share it with others. I blurted out "physical education" at the registration desk, and the rest is history.

Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?
I knew that being physically active was one of my biggest passions. All throughout my life, I played sports and especially loved Olympic weightlifting. I wanted to share what I love with others because physical activity has so many benefits for one's overall health and well-being. It truly is a lifetime activity.

What challenges have you faced as you've worked toward this degree – and how have you overcome them?
School is incredibly expensive. So, the biggest challenge I have faced is supporting myself financially. Year-round I juggle four jobs to try and help pay for tuition and living expenses. At times it can be really stressful and scary. However, if I keep working hard, it will pay off one day.

What’s been your favorite memory at UNI?
My favorite memory at UNI is playing battleship in Dr. Hall's lifetime activity course. This was before COVID, so it is one of my last "normal" memories. We got six canoes in the leisure lap swim pool and tried to sink our classmates' ships. It was incredibly fun, and I never thought I would enjoy something like that, but I did.

How has UNI helped you achieve your goals?
UNI has helped me pursue my passions. There is now a strength and conditioning minor, which allows me to narrow my focus in my degree towards what I love. Every day I am one step closer to my ultimate goal of teaching strength and conditioning.

How has your experience at UNI shaped you?
My experience at UNI has definitely taught me to try new things. With my major, there are a lot of activities we do that I have never heard of that end up being incredibly fun. It has shown me that there really is something out there for everyone to enjoy and to try new things because you could end up enjoying it.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
Take the leap! UNI is home for myself and many others, and it is where I have met lifelong friends and ultimately found myself. I was hesitant at first, but I jumped in with two feet and gave it my all every day. It has been one of the best choices of my life so far.

What do you plan to do with your degree?
I plan (hope!) to teach strength and conditioning in a high school setting.