Why did you choose UNI? 

I chose UNI because it is a big school with numerous opportunities, but classes are small and personal. UNI is a great school for social science and education programs and has outstanding professors. 

What have you enjoyed the most about attending UNI? 

It is close to home so I knew many other students going there, but it is big enough that I met many new people and made new friends through my major and various activities and organizations. I have been able to take advantage of many opportunities through coursework, activities, and organizations at UNI. 

How did you become interested in your major? 

I have always wanted to become a teacher, but it wasn’t until UNI that I was solidified in social sciences. UNI has so many interesting and challenging classes that my love and passion for social sciences grew. 

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

There is a great community of students and faculty within CSBS. I have made many good friends within my major and the college as well. One of my favorite aspects of social sciences is that there is something for everyone to be interested in whether it’s history, psychology, geography, and more. The professors within the major make the content interesting, collaborative, and applicable to our lives. 

How have you been involved outside of the classroom?

I was involved in the Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society, St. Stephen the Witness Catholic Center, and some intramurals while at UNI. These organizations foster a supportive community. It was beneficial to collaborate with like-minded people and push each other to grow. These organizations allowed opportunities to give back to the community and learn more about public service. 

I spent my last semester at UNI off-campus completing student teaching. UNI prepared me for this experience by preparing me to collaborate and build relationships with the many students and staff I encountered. I have used many skills developed at UNI such as professionalism, empathy, communication, collaboration, and a strong work ethic. UNI set me up for success in my student teaching experience. 

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

The most influential professors during my time at UNI were Ashley Jorgensen, Lisa Tabor, Ramona McNeal, and Thomas Larsen. These professors opened my eyes to new ideas and interests and they motivated me to become a more well-rounded learner. These professors made the content and materials relevant to college students and I was able to make connections and use it in my student teaching and everyday life. 

What are your post-graduation plans?

My post-graduation plans include long-term substitute teaching at the school where I student-taught in Northeast Iowa for the spring semester. I will apply for full-time teaching positions around the area as they open up.

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

UNI has prepared me for my future by challenging me to step out of my comfort zone and build relationships with those around me. I am confident in my skills and abilities because of my challenging and great experiences at UNI and within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. UNI and CSBS prepared me well for student teaching and I feel ready to step into the world of teaching. 

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

Don’t be afraid to get involved in your classes and organizations. You can learn a lot and make a lot of connections by stepping out of your comfort zone.