What brought you to UNI?

I grew up less than 20 miles from Cedar Falls so the University of Northern Iowa was always a top pick for my post-secondary education. Not only was proximity in my favor but I heard outstanding things about the field of study I desired to pursue. I have had a plethora of opportunities that led me to UNI but one of the most influential was spending a summer in Denver, CO working at a transitional homeless shelter. I worked in the youth department of this shelter and it was one of the most eye opening experiences I have had to date. This short time in my life rooted my passion for helping others. 

What did you enjoy most about attending UNI?

Some of the most cherished things I have from UNI are the friendships I have made. In both undergraduate and graduate studies I have met the most amazing people and am forever grateful for that. As far as my academic journey, I would say the most influential people were my graduate study professors. They have encouraged me to grow and stretch beyond my comfort zone both personally and professionally, even when I didn’t know how to or want to. I have appreciated the person I have become. I attribute a lot of that to the University of Northern Iowa. 

How did you become interested in your program? 

I graduated from UNI in 2018 with a bachelor's degree majoring in Family Services and minoring in Communication Studies. In my undergraduate I took multiple courses taught by Patricia Gross, Heather Kennedy, Bill Henninger, and many others who sparked my interest in pursuing my masters degree in school counseling. I have always been interested in helping others and thought working in a school setting would be a great fit for me. As I learned more about school counseling I found that it aligned with my personal and professional goals and decided to apply after taking a gap year between my undergraduate and graduate studies.  

How have you been involved outside of the classroom?

I have had many opportunities to practice my advocacy and leadership skills outside of the classroom. I have been able to lobby with law-makers at the Iowa Capital about issues that influence schools and school counseling. I have also gotten to experience multiple different cultures and religions through community partnerships. Whether it be through conversations, interactions, immersive experiences, etc. the involvement both inside and outside of the classroom has been helpful to growing my personal and professional identity. 

Post-graduation plans?

Elementary school counselor, BCLUW and GMG community school districts, Conrad, IA and Green Mountain, IA.  

How did UNI prepare you for your future career? 

As mentioned above, there are innumerous moments that have prepared me for my career as a school counselor. Whether inside or outside of the classroom, I have been stretched, challenged, engaged and pushed to fulfill my fullest potential. I am excited to be a lifelong learner and even more eager to start my career as a school counselor! 

What advice would you give to students currently looking into grad schools?

Make sure you take time to do some self-exploration before making a commitment. I took a year to find myself and that time was very valuable to me. I was able to solidify my passions and feel confident walking into my graduate studies. Life was never promised to be easy but this profession is worth every second of hard work you put into it. Helping students is my passion and I am so honored to officially wear the title of Professional School Counselor! 

Anything else you’d like to add? 

Walk confidently into this next stage of life, you will do amazing things!