How did you end up at UNI?
I'm from Springfield, Illinois, which is about 4.5 hours from UNI, and it was actually by coincidence that I found UNI. My mom saw something about it online, and I decided I wanted to take a tour of campus. Instantly I fell in love with it. It wasn't too big like other campuses I had looked at, but it also wasn't too small. The classrooms were super cool, especially the ones in my major. The labs looked interesting, and I automatically wanted to know how everything worked and what they did. Other schools I looked at didn't impress me as much as UNI did, mainly because UNI was so much more welcoming. It felt like home here.

Why did you choose to pursue this degree at UNI? 
Growing up, I played a ton of sports, and with that came a ton of injuries. Because of this, I was constantly in a physical therapy clinic, so I guess I've always known I wanted to be a physical therapist. I couldn't have gotten back to playing sports without my therapists, so I want to return the favor and help others get back to what they love doing the most.

What’s been your favorite experience at UNI so far?
I have loved UNI so far! At first, it was hard moving far from home and not knowing anyone, but I was quickly welcomed with open arms and have enjoyed every minute of it. My favorite experience at UNI so far would probably be becoming a certified personal trainer my first semester on campus. Personal training is something I have always enjoyed. I never knew that would be an opportunity for me here, but I'm thrilled that it was. 

How has UNI helped you achieve your goals?
Since I began attending UNI, I have been able to accomplish goals that I didn't even know I really had. The university is filled with so many different opportunities and, to add to that, the faculty is nothing but caring and helpful. Although I have only attended two semesters so far, I have met professors that I will never forget. They go out of their way to help students, and I couldn't be more grateful for that.

What challenges have you faced as you've worked toward this degree – and how have you overcome them?
Although I love the degree I am working toward, there have definitely been challenges. Classes can be hard, and it took me a second to realize that sometimes I have to study extra long for a class or pass up on other activities I want to do. Hard work pays off, and although sometimes it's frustrating, the hard work is worth it. 

Everyone has an idea of what college will be like — and then you get here. What has surprised you about UNI? About being in college? About yourself?
Honestly, I was expecting college to be really hard for many reasons. I wasn't used to cooking for myself, doing my own laundry, and other tasks similar to those. I also felt pretty nervous because I wasn't in the same place as my family. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how fun college turned out to be. I quickly figured out how to do things and became pretty independent. I really like that I don't have to be in school all day long, like in high school. It's really fun to gain that bit of independence and start the next chapter of our lives.

We often say UNI is ... student focused; a place where professors care--and teach; a place where learning happens in and out of the classroom; and is perfectly sized. How do one or more of these statements ring true for you?
I would 100% agree with the fact that UNI is a place where professors care. The first professor I met my first semester on campus is one I will never forget. She cared so much for her students and their education that it actually made me wish I had class with her every day. Along with this, at UNI learning does indeed happen in and outside the classroom. For only being on campus for the short amount of time that I have, I am already going to be able to help work on an undergraduate research project this upcoming semester!

What advice would you give to students considering coming to UNI?
UNI is a really amazing school. It's big enough that you will constantly be meeting new people but small enough so that you will be able to get to know your professors on a personal level. Everyone here is very helpful, and there's always something fun to do. Even during the COVID-19 year, UNI was still able to provide opportunities for their students, which was amazing. There are endless possibilities here, and overall, it's a really fun school to attend! 

What three adjectives describe yourself?
Caring, active, and passionate

What do you plan to do with your degree? 
After I get my degree from UNI, I plan to continue my education and go to graduate school. I'm not sure where I want to go to (physical therapy) school yet, but I know I can't wait to become a physical therapist!