Tell us about your family and growing up: I grew up in the little town of Esmond, Illinois, just south of Rockford. My mom is from Iowa and my dad comes from Indiana. They met at Ellsworth Community College in Iowa. I’m the oldest of four. My sisters are 15 and seven, and I have a brother who’s 10. My family means so much to me—I’d do anything for them! At home I learned to value respect, honesty, reliability, hard work—the list goes on and on.
What were you involved in during high school?: I played basketball and golf and did a lot in FFA. I also volunteered a lot with my church youth group and worked part-time for framers in our area. But the activity I valued and worked with most was 4-H, active with my club since the third grade.
How did you decide to come to Kirkwood?: I had about five different colleges in mind my senior year. My dad talked with a guy in Davenport and he said we should come to Cedar Rapids and check out Kirkwood. I got online and signed up for a TGIF visit. I know the day I came for a visit was the day I decided to come here. The way the Admissions staff and everyone here treated me and my family was mind-blowing!
What are you studying now, and what are your future plans?: I am in the Ag Business Transfer program and plan to transfer to Iowa State after Kirkwood, where I plan to major in Ag Studies with a minor in Animal Science. I would really be honored to come back to Kirkwood as an Admissions advisor. Also, I would like to have a small farm and start raising show calves for 4-H kids. I would also like to be coaching young kids and just being active with the younger generation!