Mitchell, please tell us a little about you. Where did you grow up, and where was high school?
I grew up in Fort Dodge, Iowa and graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High in 2006. I was in football and track, and also a cheerleader. I was also involved in the Model United Nations, plus playing the trombone in our marching band, concert and jazz bands.
Tell us about your time in Iowa City and the U of I.
I have been in Iowa City since the fall of 2006. I was enrolled at The University of Iowa for two years, and was a Hawkeye Cheerleader for those years. Due to some family issues I withdrew from the U of I, and have been working as a phlebotomist at Biotest Pharmaceuticals. I live in Iowa City with my fiancee’, Erin O’Connor, and our Weimeraner, Delilah.
What brought you to Kirkwood and the Nursing program?
Healthcare has been in my family for some time. My grandmother was a nurse and my mother has always worked in healthcare. I also have a mind for the healthcare profession. I have a desire to help those who cannot help themselves, to care for those who are sick or injured.
We see some fun photos of you from RAGBRAI. Tell us about those rides.
I’ve been involved with RAGBRAI for 6 of the last 8 years. I ride with Team TUTU. It’s a family based team founded by my future in-laws and varied family members. The team originates from Fort Dodge; however, the team has members from Arizona, Illinois, Minnesota, Michigan and Colorado.
Mitchell, imagine it is five years from now. Where are you, and what are you doing?
I am in Florida, probably the Fort Myers area. I hope to be working in an intensive care unit, or in a mental health or neurology department. We will be married, with maybe a child or one on the way. Most likely I will be pursuing a master’s degree in some area of nursing.