Why did you choose UNI? 

I chose UNI because it was the perfect place for me. UNI is a perfect mix of a small and big school. 

What have you enjoyed the most about attending UNI? 

I loved my professors, they were all great and I loved to pick their brains. I especially enjoyed Dr. Connors and his awesome lectures. 

How did you become interested in your major? 

I have always loved history and I love coaching. So teaching history and being in a position to coach youth sports sounded great to me. 

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

My favorite aspect of my major was being surrounded by people that knew so much more than me about history. It was mind-blowing to see what my classmates knew. 

How have you been involved outside of the classroom? 

I participated in Iowa High School Model United Nations. It is a great organization for anybody interested in current events and history. The Tuesday night meetings were always a good time. 

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

There are so many professors I have been blessed to take a class with, but for the sake of people reading this I will limit it to four. Dr. Rinehart, Dr. Ellison, Dr. Connors, and Dr. Neymeyer are four wonderful professors at UNI. Where they inspired me the most was how they modeled not just being a great professor, but also a great human being. All four of their passion for teaching is so obvious to see when you first meet them and their classes were not just great classes, but great experiences. I hope I can become even half the teacher they all are. 

What are your post-graduation plans?

I recently accepted a job teaching High School Social Studies at Janesville, which is thankfully right next to Cedar Falls. 

How has UNI/your major helped prepare you for these plans? 

UNI has helped me prepare by creating an environment where I could ask questions, and where I could succeed. I was always able to learn from so many great people while at UNI. 

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

If you are interested in history, do it. You can talk about your passion every day while being a role model to young students. The world needs good educators, and you can be one.