What made you choose the University of Northern Iowa?

I chose the University of Northern Iowa because of its long standing history in creating successful, impactful, and passionate educators. I mean it wasn’t called the Iowa State Teaching College for no reason. From the beginning of my college search back in high school, I knew I wanted to attend a university that would not only provide me with a strong and valuable education, but one that would also support me as an individual as I grew personally and professionally. After touring campus, I immediately felt welcomed by the UNI community and could truly picture myself calling it home just as my mom did when she attended UNI. I could feel the support and encouragement from day one, and this is something I still feel today. 

Additionally, many of my teachers throughout the years attended UNI and often shared their own stories about their experiences here. I could tell how much they genuinely loved UNI. Hearing firsthand how UNI helped share them into the educators they are today inspired and reassured me that it would be the right fit for me as well. Overall, I knew UNI was a place where I could thrive academically, become involved in the community, and continue working toward my goal of becoming an impactful teacher. 

What have you enjoyed the most about your experience at UNI? 

The best part about my time at UNI is the sense of community. It truly is like one large family. From my professors, to my coworkers and peers, I have been able to build meaningful connections that will last a lifetime. My professors have not only helped me academically, but have also taken the time to encourage me, challenge me, and help me become more confident in myself and in my skills as a future educator. Creating friendships and connecting with peers where I have felt supported and encouraged to grow throughout my time at UNI has been so impactful and reassures me that I chose the right path. These relationships have made my college experience memorable and are connections I know will continue to grow long after graduation. I will forever be incredibly grateful for the support system I have found here at UNI.

What first sparked your interest in your major?

I knew I wanted to be a social studies teacher when I was still in High School. My teachers Mrs. Huenegarth and Mrs. Smith were two very influential mentors in my life. I knew that I wanted to be a teacher like them. Both of them are educators who support their students no matter who they are or where they come from. I want to be the educator who creates engaging learning environments where students feel supported and encouraged to grow academically and individually. Students deserve to be met where they are, and they deserve an educator who supports them and encourages them to grow. 

Choosing the field of social sciences was a no brainer for me. Growing up in a home where local government was a constant conversation at the dinner table threw me into the world of political science at an early age. The different content topics that make up the world of social science, from government to history to the behavioral sciences, allow for so many different opportunities to teach meaningful content and encourage my students to think critically about the world in which they live. Living in a world that is constantly changing, it is only human to want to better understand the events, systems, and people that shape our everyday lives. I hope to help students make those connections and become informed, thoughtful individuals through my time as an educator. 

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

One of my favorite aspects of my major is the variety. There are many different content areas that make up the world of social sciences, this allowed me to explore different ideas and interests. Like many fields, the field of social sciences is constantly evolving and growing each and everyday. From major historical events to groundbreaking new discoveries, there is always something new that you can learn about. 

Additionally, I was able to get very close with my peers in my major. Many of us even had the opportunity to student teach in the same schools. Creating these life long friendships is something that I have truly cherished. It has made my experience more enjoyable and supportive. We were able to rely on each other, collaborate in a variety of ways, and talk through challenges when we hit a wall both in and out of the classroom.

How have you been involved outside the classroom?

In my time at UNI, I have been fortunate enough to work with the Educational Technology and Media Services team within the Informational Technology department. Here, I gained valuable experience working with the classroom technology on campus as well as production media equipment. One of my favorite parts of my job, other than having access to a golf cart in the warmer months, is running Fall and Spring Commencement exercises. It truly is one of the best feelings to be able to celebrate UNI graduates. 

Kappa Delta Pi is an honor society in education. I was fortunate enough to serve as KDP’s public relations chair where I averaged around 20 hours of volunteer time a semester. It was great to be able to work alongside a variety of future educators to help the Cedar Valley. From spending time with the residents at New Aldaya with our Elderly Awareness committee, to gifting families and local teachers through our Adopt-a-Family and Adopt-a-Classroom committees, I have enjoyed every part of KDP.

As a social studies education major, I have had the opportunity to be a part of many different classrooms. I am truly grateful for the connections made and time spent at Waterloo East and West High Schools, Cedar Falls Holmes and Peet Junior High Schools, and Center Point Urbana Middle School. This semester, I finished my student teaching placements with 8th graders at Holmes Junior High and 10-12th graders at Waterloo East High. Each of these schools provided me with the opportunity to grow and develop my skills as an educator. I would not be who I am without them. I specifically would like to thank Ms. Fjerstad and Ms. Zondo for allowing me to be a larger part of their classrooms through student teaching this spring. 

Which professors or mentors have had the biggest impact on your time at UNI, and how?

My professor and advisor Chad Christopher has truly been a guiding light through my time at UNI. From being one of the first individuals I met during orientation to being a part of the same professional learning community during my time student teaching at Holmes Junior High. He has supported me in a variety of ways in my journey to becoming an educator. 

My bosses and team in the Information Technology department of Educational Technology and Media Services have also played a large role in my time here at UNI. I have spent many hours within the walls of the ITTC. You could always find me preparing to fix classroom technology, getting equipment ready for commencement or other University events, as well as doing any of our other daily tasks. I knew I could always rely on my ETMS team to support my goals and be there for me. 

I would also like to shout out some of the most impactful professors I have had here at UNI. Professor Brian Rumsey, Dr.  Donna Hoffman, Dr. Alexandra Kogl. Dr. Morgan Anderson, Dr. Scott Ellison, Dr. Emily Machen, Dr. Kyle Endres, Dr. Becky Wilson Hawbaker, Professor Ashley Jorgensen, Dr. Thomas Connors, and everyone of my professors who made my educational experience here at UNI memorable. 

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I will be living in Iowa City where I plan on teaching either middle or high school social studies in the Cedar Rapids/Iowa City area. I am excited to be able to work with Iowa students and help them grow into impactful and productive members of our community and society as a whole. 

In what ways has UNI and your major helped prepare you for your next steps?

While my teacher preparation program helped me grow into an impactful educator, it was my classes and professors within the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences that gave me everything I needed to be successful in my career. Having a variety of elective course options allowed me to explore different perspectives and ideas while also deepening my knowledge in areas that I have been interested in. These experiences have challenged me to think critically, communicate effectively, research thoroughly, and approach problems with empathy and an open mind. 

As I have stated before, the support and mentorship I have received from UNI professors and staff played a major role in preparing me for life after graduation. Through their encouragement, I was able to develop skills in leadership, adaptability, and relationship building, all in which I know will continue to benefit me throughout my career. 

Most importantly, the University of Northern Iowa and the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences have both helped me unlock the educator, and person, I want to be. I was able to make mistakes and grow and learn from them. I have gained the confidence to enter my career prepared to make meaningful connections, support diverse learners, and continue growing both as an individual and professional. I was able to truly be myself here at UNI, and I will forever be grateful for that. 

What advice would you give to students who are thinking about pursuing this major?

Teaching is such a rewarding path. In my short time in the classroom, I have already felt so supported by not only my colleagues, but also my students. Knowing that I am making a difference and impact on the future generations means so much. Through the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, I have been able to explore my interests and learn about new topics. 

My advice to students who are considering majoring in social science teaching would be to keep an open mind when it comes to new experiences and take advantage of every opportunity to grow. It is okay to fall, as long as you get back up again. There are many different resources available here at UNI to help you. And of course, I would tell future students to live in the moment. Your time at UNI is limited. Keep your dorm door open. Go to a football game in the UNI Dome. Have late night study sessions in the library with your people. Sit out in the Adirondack chairs on Lawther lawn. Attend a CAB event. Most importantly, take the time to build relationships with those around you. Many of my favorite memories came from the connections I made here at UNI. Be sure to create a healthy balance between your academic and social life. 

Anything else you’d like to share? 

I truly, from the bottom of my heart, want to express how much I have loved my time here at UNI. I knew the time would fly by, but never did I think that I would blink and it would be over. 

I have been fortunate enough to be awarded the Purple and Old Gold Award. I have also received 3 of the Excellence in Education Awards. I am also a legacy student as my mother graduated from UNI in 1987.