Why did you choose UNI?

I chose UNI for a number of reasons. I really wanted to stay in Iowa, and I thought it was the best fit for me given the size and the atmosphere. I loved the concept of relatively smaller classes and being able to move across campus with ease. It also fit in with my academic goals: a lot of my college credit classes could transfer and at the time I was entering college, I was looking into being a teacher. I only ever visited one college, this one, and I was sold on it. 

What have you enjoyed the most about attending UNI?

This sounds cheesy, but I’ve really enjoyed the people here. I entered college knowing that a lot of people from my hometown wouldn’t be present. It was a big change, and I came right in the midst of COVID, the week of the Derecho. However, my roommates, floormates, classmates, and professors have helped me make a lot of wonderful memories. I’ve been pulled out of my comfort zone a number of times despite being very comfortable just staying in my form. I’m glad for the experiences they’ve brought me. 

How did you become interested in your major?

I’ve been interested in history since I was young. I was one of the kids who had an Egyptian phase, a Greek mythology phase, a pirate phase, an archaeology phase, and so on and so forth. I’ve been fortunate to have had so many inspiring and supportive history teachers throughout my education that only encouraged my enthusiasm. I went back and forth on what major I wanted to declare in college and was delighted to find that many career paths I was interested in entering often wanted people with history backgrounds. 

What have been some of your favorite aspects of the major?

I love history and research, so I’ve found so many classes here a joy to attend. It’s wonderful to be surrounded by people, also enthusiastic on the topic, who have their own knowledge and specialization. This is best demonstrated in the Donald Shepardson Memorial Student Research Conference, better known as ShepCon. I’ve been able to attend a few times to present on topics I was passionate about as well as listen to my peers share their own topics. 

How have you been involved outside of the classroom?

I’ve skipped around a number of student organizations over the years including History Club, Philosophy Club, Math Club, UNI Proud, and a number of events that other student organizations have hosted for the entire student body such as TESOL Club and Film Appreciation Club. During my freshman year, I also had the opportunity through one of my history classes to volunteer my time at the History Center in Cedar Rapids. I enjoyed it so much that I proceeded to get a summer internship there. This experience really helped my understanding of historical documentation, preservation, and what careers would be open to me moving forward. 

What professors have been most influential through your time here at UNI?

Professors Connors, Dise and Kysar-Moon. There have been so many wonderful professors over the years, but I had several classes with each of these and they stuck with me. I admire the way they teach and relate to students, and I felt like I was respected as a student when I was in their classes. If you have the chance to take their classes, I highly encourage you to do so! 

What are your post-graduation plans?

I plan on getting a Library and Information Science Masters from the University of Iowa next Fall Semester. Until then, I plan to continue to work at the Marion Library. 

As I plan to continue my education, I’m excited to see how the skills I’ve learned at UNI will help me in my Masters and in my professional life. I was able to meet and work with a wide range of people on this campus. I was also able to take a number of classes outside of my major and minor degrees, and I feel like having this variety will also help me move forward due to the range of topics I’ve learned about. I’m uncertain what exact path I’ll be walking down, but I’ve gained a number of tools and experiences that will help me. 

What advice would you give to students who are considering this major?

There’s a lot of reading, and a lot of papers. Thankfully, I’m a fan of both of these things, but even I felt a bit overwhelmed at times. As plenty of college students will tell you, it’s vital to have a calendar for all of the assignments and events going on. 

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’d like to thank the UNI squirrels for their continued presence as I feel they aren’t acknowledged enough. I’d be lying if I didn’t say the squirrels I saw on my original tour weren’t a factor when officially selecting this college. I’ve gotten very attached to them throughout the semesters and their continued support has not gone unnoticed. All joking aside, though, I do want to thank my professors and peers once again for being there for me through every step I’ve taken here, the highs and the lows. I’m genuinely going to miss this place and its people.