What is your background?: I grew up in Anamosa, Iowa, and graduated from high school in 2007. I have a younger brother Jacob and my mom Lu Ann who is a nurse. My dad, who passed away in January of 2021 from cancer, worked at Jones County NRCS for 33 years.
What brought you to Kirkwood and why?: When I graduated in 2007 I wanted to be a baker, Kirkwood was the only school in the area that had a program. Unfortunately, I graduated from the program after the flood and the national economy had tanked. So, I worked at the job i used to put myself through school. and took classes for, because for once going to school was fun. I was bullied badly all throughout high school and that hadn’t happened at Kirkwood. As the the economy was starting to get better I got hurt at work, and that left me with a permanent back injury. I began trying to find a new career path and that brought me back to Kirkwood.
What is your program of study and what interests you about it?: I am in the digital arts program. I love that there are so many different career paths.
Are you involved in anything else on campus? If so, what and why?: I am the managing editor of the Communique as well as a writer and photographer, I also tutor a couple of subjects. I have also been a producer on a KSP video. In addition, I have gone on four study abroad programs with Kirkwood. My first was to Italy for a culinary study. My next was to England for business and then to Denmark (also for business), and then to Rome for culture. I am hoping that we will be able to go to France and England in May.
Are you involved in anything off of campus?: I have a small business on Etsy and sell vegetables at farmers markets.
What do you do for fun?: I love to walk my dog Daisy. I also really enjoy spending time with family. My eight year old cousin and I love playing Pokemon Go together. I also enjoy gardening, making jelly and photography. I have also spent the pandemic learning how to crochet.
Where do you see yourself in five years?: I see myself growing my business and working as a photographer.