What is your background?: My name is Kiaya Walters and I am a senior at Williamsburg High School. I have lived in Williamsburg my whole life and have one younger sister. My father is a deputy sheriff for Iowa County and my mother is a teacher in North English.
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: I am a high school student trying to gain as many college credits as possible. It’s such a nice, convenient way to save some money before going off to college while getting credit for general education courses.
What are you studying?: At Kirkwood, I’ve been taking a CNA class that has really gotten me interested in Nursing. I am planning on going to the University of Iowa in the Fall and majoring in Nursing. I love the opportunity to enrich people’s lives by giving them the care they need.
Are you involved in anything on campus?: Throughout high school I have been involved in cross country, track, basketball, softball, show choir crew, concert choir, and I am the secretary for both our National Honor Society chapter and student council. I have been involved with so many activities which allowed me to make so many friends throughout high school. I enjoy new experiences and getting to know new people.
Are you involved with anything off campus?: I am currently in the process of getting hired at Highland Ridge, which is a senior living center, as a CNA. I am in the Health Careers class through Kirkwood and will hopefully pass CNA state testing on April 19.
What do you do for fun?: For fun, I enjoy being with family and friends. I love to run, read and go shopping. In the summers I go ponding with my friends and in the winter we go see moves and go out to eat. I visit my grandparents a lot. I love the elderly and my close relationship with my grandparents is what started my love for caring for others which led me to pursue a nursing career.
Where do you see yourself in five years?: In five years, I see myself getting a stable career as a nurse to support my future family. I am hoping to be with the man I will marry and settle down by then. Family and financial support are very important to me and will be throughout my life.