Education
BA, Political Science/Political Communication, 2011

Why did you choose to attend UNI? 
The way I chose to attend UNI is similar to the story of goldilocks. I visited a larger university and felt it was too big. I visited a small private college and knew I’d miss out on the opportunities available at a bigger institution. When I visited UNI, I knew it was just the right fit for me. There was so much you could do and be involved with, but still have classes with 20 people. It always felt like home. 

Why did you choose your major? 
In all honesty, I double majored in Political Science and Political Communication because those courses and professors interested me the most! I had no idea “what I wanted to be when I grew up.” So, I focused on an area I enjoyed studying and was passionate about. I knew no matter what I would leave UNI with the skill set I needed to find a career. 

What were some of your favorite classes? 
I really enjoyed classes with all my political science professors. Political Theory, Political Psychology, Terrorism, Campaigns & Elections, Modern Presidency…so many good ones and I can’t remember them all! 

What do you do in your current position? What do you enjoy about it?
As a fundraiser for the John Stoddard Cancer Center, I work to raise the money needed to support the free programs and services not covered by insurance or billed to patients. I love working with donors and connecting them to a cause they are passionate about and seeing the joy they feel in making a difference in the lives of our patients. No two days are the same for me. It is an incredibly rewarding job. 

How did your major help prepare you for your current role? What skills are you still using today?
I use skills I learned in the classroom every day. Writing papers, public speaking, understanding public budgeting, or critical thinking. I think I’m also able to lean on some of the political communications courses as well for understanding psychology and messaging/persuasion of donors. 

What is a memorable part of your studies or participation within your major?
I was lucky enough to have the honor to serve as President of the Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG). While not an official Political Science department club, that role and the organization definitely transformed my UNI experience. I learned so much during my time as President about working with public officials, lobbying, public budgeting, and more. I wrote a paper about the Regent University funding model. It really was fascinating and set me up to understand I could use my skill set to accomplish anything – all rooted in what I learned from my courses. I’d say every professor I was able to interact with positively impacted my experience – and I mean that honestly. I always felt pushed and challenged to do my best work but at the same time supported. Even on the most stressful of late nights writing a paper or studying, I knew my professors cared about me and wanted me to succeed. 

What advice would you give to students currently interested in the same major and/or going into your career field?
With a degree in Political Science, you can do almost anything. You will have received such a well-rounded education that it is ok for you to not necessarily know exactly what you want to do for a job/career. In my first year at UNI, I never would have had “fundraiser” on my radar as an option or something I’d be interested in. Yet here I am, in a role I deeply enjoy. Stay open to whatever opportunities present themselves to you. Lastly, I’d suggest to any student – get involved. Join a club, go to concerts, attend things at the GBPAC, cheer on the Panthers. Make the most of your UNI experience and all that it can offer you.