What is your background?: I grew up in Story City, Iowa and went to Roland-Story High School. I was actively involved in my church youth group, choir, FFA, and ballet!
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: I came to Kirkwood for a campus visit day and later had the opportunity to tour The Hotel at Kirkwood Center. After seeing our beautiful hotel and hearing about the hands-on clinical experience, I knew this was the place for me! 🙂
What is your program of study and what interests you about it?: I am studying Hospitality Management. I’m extremely passionate about travel and the hospitality industry plays such a major role in it, which is what sparked my initial interest! I love meeting new people and being able make their time away from home enjoyable!
Are you involved in anything else on campus? If so, what and why?: I fill The Hotel at Kirkwood Center’s work study position which has been such a wonderful experience! I work alongside such accomplished people and learn so much! I’m involved in AHLA and get to meet with them once a month. It’s so fun to interact with the second years in my program and learn about all the opportunities they’ve had in the hospitality industry! I am also involved with The Core campus ministry group. I love being a part of such a kind, caring, close-knit group! They meet every Tuesday and Thursday at Cedar Hall for lunch and we get together on Tuesday evenings for Life Group.
Are you involved in anything off of campus?: Off campus, I am involved in outreach ministry. I have been traveling to the Czech Republic every summer since 2015 to teach English and spread the gospel, as well as several mission trips through YouthWorks! I enjoy experiencing new cultures, meeting new people, and of course, trying new foods! Throughout my travels, the Czech Republic and the relationships that I’ve formed their have become very near and dear to me and I would love to end up there one day.
What do you do for fun?: In my free time I enjoy road trips, hiking, camping, reading, and yoga!
Where do you see yourself in five years?: In five years I see myself overseas (hopefully) at a Hilton property! Dream big!
“Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right!” – Henry Ford