What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?

My mom is a nurse practitioner, so I basically grew up in a hospital. Being around her and seeing what she did every day made nursing feel like the most natural path for me. I never really questioned doing anything outside of healthcare; it always felt like where I belonged. Watching her connect with patients and make a real impact on their lives inspired me to want to do the same. 

Why did you choose UNI’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program?

I chose UNI’s BSN program because this campus already felt like home. I was already playing soccer here, and originally I came in as pre-med. But when UNI announced they were starting a nursing program, something instantly clicked for me. Nursing lined up so much better with what I actually wanted, to care for people directly and build genuine relationships with patients. Since I was already connected to the campus, everything about the new BSN program felt like the right fit at the right time, and I knew I didn’t want to be anywhere else.

What are you most excited to experience or accomplish next?

Some of my favorite parts of the program have been how hands-on everything is and how much the faculty actually care about us. I love the labs and simulations because they make me feel more confident and prepared for real clinical situations. I’ve also really enjoyed how close our cohort is; we’re all going through the same challenges, so it feels like a built-in support system. Balancing nursing with soccer can be a lot, but the program has pushed me in the best way and helped me grow so much already.

Have you had any healthcare experience outside the program — before or during your time at UNI? How has it influenced your nursing journey or your experience in the program so far?

Yes, I’ve had a lot of healthcare experience before and during my time at UNI. I worked as a CNA during COVID and now in a dementia unit. That role has honestly shaped the way I see nursing. Being hands-on with patients, especially in long-term care and memory care, taught me patience, communication, and how much the small moments matter. All of that experience has made the nursing content feel more real, and it’s helped me feel more prepared in labs, simulations, and clinical conversations. Instead of just learning concepts, I’m already connecting them to situations I’ve actually been in, which has made the program feel even more meaningful.

Is there a professor or mentor who has made a difference in your nursing journey so far?

Kimberly Mueller has made a huge impact on my nursing journey. She’s grown my knowledge and skill base so much this semester, and she has a way of explaining things that makes everything click. I’ve also learned a lot from Allison Heit. Both of them have pushed me to think critically, build confidence, and really understand the ‘why’ behind what we do as nurses. Having instructors who are that invested in our success has made such a difference. 

What are your career goals or dreams for the future of your nursing career?

After graduation, I want to go straight into the ICU. I’m really drawn to critical care, the fast pace, the complexity, and the strong teamwork it requires. I also feel like that environment will help me transition out of sports because it’s similarly demanding, collaborative, and high-energy. I want to be somewhere I’m constantly learning and building strong clinical skills, especially since my long-term goal is to become a CRNA. Starting in the ICU feels like the best way to challenge myself, gain high-level experience, and build a solid foundation for the kind of nurse I want to become.

What advice would you give to students who are thinking about studying nursing at UNI?

My biggest advice is to go for it if you are considering it. UNI’s nursing program is challenging, but the support you get makes such a difference. You have to work hard, stay organized, and want to learn, but the difference here is that the faculty really want you to succeed. Also, lean on your classmates. Our cohort feels like a family, and having people who are going through the same things makes the tough days easier. If you’re passionate about nursing, UNI gives you everything you need to grow, feel confident, and ultimately reach whatever goals you set for yourself.