What is your background?: I was born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. I graduated from Jefferson High School as a valedictorian in 2017. I am the daughter of Steve and Dana Wise. I am the oldest of three children. I have two younger sisters- Kendall and Kalyn. We are all about two years apart. I am blessed with such a supporting and loving family!
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: After graduating high school, I did not know the career path that I wanted to take. I made the decision to attend Kirkwood due to the fantastic scholarship opportunities, affordability, location, and to help me decide on a major.
What is your program of study and what interests you about it?: I am currently in my second year of the Liberal Arts Program. As I mentioned, I was undecided on a career path entering Kirkwood. Through my first-year classes and experiences, I’ve discovered that I have a passion for business. I absolutely love how helpful my professors are and I can tell that they truly do want you to succeed.
Are you involved in anything else on campus? If so, what and why?: I have always loved getting involved, branching out, and meeting new people. I am a member of Kirkwood’s Student Ambassadors, Student Leadership Council, Dance Marathon, and Alumni Leadership Council. During the school year, I work in the Kirkwood Admissions office as an office clerk. Over the summer, I worked on campus as an Orientation Peer Leader. I believe getting involved is extremely important, and it would have to be my top advice for students! I have met such wonderful people within my past year at Kirkwood and look forward to meeting new incoming students. I am grateful for all the opportunities available for me here at Kirkwood.
Are you involved in anything off of campus?: Along with the jobs at Kirkwood, I also work as a nanny and a babysitter. I watch two boys that I absolutely love spending time with. I am involved in Gems of Hope, a non-profit cancer organization. I also volunteer at the YMCA for youth soccer.
What do you do for fun?: I definitely like to keep busy! In my spare time I enjoy going to concerts, going out to eat, and spending quality time with family and friends. You can frequently catch me watching movies or shopping! Traveling is also a passion of mine. I try and visit Arizona at least twice a year to see my grandmother. However, I just love to travel in general!
Where do you see yourself in five years?: Right now, I am on the business track and we will see where that takes me. I am considering attending Arizona State University WP Carey School of Business, once I complete my Associates of Arts Degree here at Kirkwood. I would ideally like to venture out of state, but I will see where life takes me!