Why did you choose UNI? 

I made the choice to come to UNI during my tour. On the tour, everyone was so ready to talk about how much they loved campus and the university. I was able to meet with the head of my department during the tour and learn more about the Sociology program, and see the honors suite. All the students and faculty were very welcoming, and UNI was the perfect size school for me. 

What is one of your favorite memories of your time at UNI? 

One of my favorite memories was my first Homecoming. I went to the bash with my friends and the dance party. I loved playing the games and dancing to the live band. It was great to see the campus community come alive during the weekend. I felt like I was part of something bigger than myself, and I enjoyed completing so many traditions. 

How did you first become interested in your major, and what ultimately led you to pursue it? 

I first became interested in sociology when taking an intro course in high school. Until that point, I was unsure of what major I would choose. All I did know was that I wanted to help people and make a difference in my community. I took that introductory sociology class and a light bulb turned on. I realized that to make an impact in my community, I must understand the larger society as a whole. My desire to make a difference led me to sociology.

What aspects of your major have you found most engaging or meaningful? 

One of the first classes I took at UNI was the Sociological Career. This class taught me how to use my sociology major in the workplace. I learned how to build a resume, apply for jobs and graduate schools, and how to market myself. The professor who taught this class was my advisor, and she shaped my college experience. My faculty cared about my time in their classes but also at UNI as a whole. Every one of my sociology classes helped me grow and challenge myself. I wouldn’t be a strong writer or critical thinker without them. 

In what ways have you been involved outside the classroom? 

I became involved in multiple student organizations when I came to UNI. One of these was Connecting Alumni to Students, or CATS. This organization is all about encouraging students to make the most of their time at UNI and give back to their campus. I was elected VP of Traditions in this organization, and facilitated the Traditions Challenge for a year. Through that leadership experience I developed my communication and management skills, and learned to event plan. Besides the skills I gained, I met some of my favorite people through my student orgs. Being involved on campus is what made my time at UNI so special. 

Which professors, mentors or advisors were particularly influential during your time at UNI, and how did they support your growth?

Dr. Marybeth Stalp was incredibly influential during my time at UNI. I met her on my first day of classes as my professor. She became my advisor, and she helped me plan my classes and schedule. I then worked with her as my thesis advisor. Through her, I developed my academic writing and sociological imagination. She acted as a sounding board and as a reference many times. Whenever I needed assistance, she was always there with a listening ear or sound advice.

What do you plan to do with your degree?

I plan to move back to Davenport for a year and work in a nonprofit setting. I am currently searching for jobs and internships. After my time away from academia, I’ll apply to grad schools for a masters in public policy. I hope to start a career in public policy to make large scale changes. 

How did UNI, and your major, prepare you for your next steps? 

Through UNI’s resources I am confident that I am ready for my next steps. Through my coursework, I developed my written and oral communication skills, as well as time management and motivation. The coursework was rigorous which challenged me to think critically and outside the box. I’ve had opportunities for professional development as well, I presented my research at a conference. UNI’s career services taught me to search for jobs and market myself. The people at UNI want the best for the students, and as long as you put in the work they will be by your side. 

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

Choosing sociology as my major has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. You constantly ask “why?” and work to uncover the answers. My advice would be to keep asking questions. Ask them of your friends, your professors, and yourself. These questions will help to broaden your thinking and understanding. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your experience at UNI or within your major? 

Getting involved on campus is critical to your success in college. Join a club! Get an on-campus job! Talk to your neighbors and classmates. Build a large community, you’re all here to get the most out of UNI. 

I wouldn’t have been able to succeed in college without the support from back home. My parents and my dog who were always there for an emergency facetime call, thank you.