Why did you choose UNI? 

I chose UNI because of the size. Although I am from Des Moines, I attended a small high school outside of Des Moines, Carlisle High School. With attending such a small school I knew I needed a smaller university in order to succeed. After my visit I was able to grasp how intimate your classes can be and how impactful it is to have connections with professors. I knew UNI was the right fit for my success moving forward. I then never even thought about touring or applying to any other universities.

What have you enjoyed the most about attending UNI? 

I have enjoyed the connections I was able to make with my professors, organizations, locals, prospective students, administrators, etc. I enjoyed my classroom experience and the courses I was being taught. During my time at UNI I never doubted that that is where I belonged. I felt seen and knew people cared to see me succeed. 

How did you become interested in your major at UNI? 

I originally started off as a political science major. I knew since 6th grade that was what I wanted to do. After my freshman orientation I had learned about political communication and sat with the knowledge for some time. Later, I realized UNI is one of the few institutions that provides such a unique major and I figured why not. The major allows for deep exploration on critical and relevant topics. I absolutely love political communication-if I could go back I would choose it again and again.

How have you been involved outside of the classroom?

Campus involvement: Throughout my collegiate career I have been heavily involved in Northern Iowa Student Government (NISG). Within this organization I have been able to make meaningful connections and strive to make a difference on campus. Although this is outside of the classroom I have been able to use the knowledge I have acquired inside the classroom. During my time as Student Body President and Vice President I sat in discussions that could be altering for the university. I was able to manage difficult conversations due to the skills that political communication and its courses brought to me. I truly learned what it was to be an advocate and be the bridge for the student body when speaking to Administrators, State Legislators, and or the Board of Regents.

Internship: During the summer of 2022 I was able to acquire an internship at a Immigration Law firm in my hometown. This experience was absolutely a dream. When I discovered my liking for politics in 6th grade my heart knew I wanted to go to law school, specifically for immigration law. As a latina, I have seen the impact and importance my community has brought. I had heard stories of their adversities and eventually decided to take as much action as a sophomore in college could. I applied for the internship. During this time I felt my work was impactful. I was helping change peoples lives and for many to gain peace. I learned about people's stories, cried with them, cheered them on. All their stories helped solidify to me that this is what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. 

What professors have been most influential through your time here at UNI?

There truly has not been a professor I have not admired during my time at UNI. Every professor I have had the pleasure of knowing has left a lasting impact and holds a special place. But I will say it will be very difficult to let Professors Peters and Professor Hoffman go. Although I had only but one class with each of them their knowledge always left me in awe. UNI is very lucky to have them. 

Professor Hoffman has set the bar for me, I look up to her very much. I always hope to be as knowledgeable as her. She truly taught me how to be a woman in politics. I was able to sit with her on a committee and she did not let down, she always meant business. Nothing that she says has never not left me in awe. I hope to be like her one day.

When I think of Dr. Peters I truly admire him. I always think, what has he not done to help others? He has been so impactful during my collegiate career whether it's inside or outside the classroom. Dr. Peters will always go out of his way to make conversation with students because he cares for them and hopes to see them strive for success. He has always been one of my greatest supporters and I know he is always cheering me on. He is a knowledgeable man who I know has impacted UNI greatly and continues to seek improvements and growth within his department. 

What are your post-graduation plans? 

I will be continuing my education at Law School. (waiting to hear back from Drake since this is my dream school)

How has UNI/your major helped prepare you for these plans? 

UNI has helped me with these plans by giving me access to individuals like Dr. Peters and programs like Legacy Scholars. Having access to such impactful people and programs has truly helped me see that my dream can come to life. As a first generation student I had no idea what the steps for Law School would be. Luckily I was able to have a support system behind me breaking down all the steps. Dr. Peters helped me make big strides with the knowledge he was able to provide during Pre-Law club. He also held multiple opportunities for students to meet with different Law Schools and interact with their Deans and or professors. I truly could not have done it without him and UNI’s programs. 

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

If you are curious, take the stride! It is such a unique major that holds so many unique courses and you get to interact with multiple departments. This major helps you stay curious and keep you on your toes since its relevant to your everyday life