Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI?
To assist in achieving my career goals.

What kind of path did you take to achieve your degree?
I discovered my degree along the way, two years into school.

What does completing your degree mean to you?
Completing my degree at UNI means a lot to me. It shows me how much a person can grow and mature throughout four short years. It shows me how hard work and focus can lead to great results.

What challenges did you face as you worked toward this degree – and how did you overcome them?
During the fall of 2021, on the 3rd day of school, my son was born. This presented the greatest challenge that I have faced during my life. Through immense support from friends and family and dedication to my classes, I was able to complete my last 3 semesters on an extremely high note while also traveling from Cedar Rapids to UNI campus every day.

How did UNI help you achieve your goals?
My advisor was my biggest help, crafting my schedule and ensuring that I was enrolled in the proper classes to guarantee graduation from UNI and admission into graduate school.

What’s your best memory of your time at UNI?
Meeting lifelong friends my freshman year.

What advice would you give to students considering UNI?
Visit campus. That's how I knew it was the right place for me to succeed.

As Cade prepares for the physical therapy graduate program at High Point University in North Carolina, he adds a final note: “My wife Ellie and my son Rudy together make up the cornerstone of my life. Just the thought of them could motivate me to conquer any challenge I face. I want to thank Ellie for her endless support of my academic success and Rudy for always keeping me on my toes. I love you both, forever.”