When you meet with students, what's most important to you?

When I meet with students, their well-being is what's most important to me. Whether it is our first time interacting or meeting regularly, I want to make sure that each student is doing well. There is a lot of pressure to be the perfect student, but it isn't possible if you neglect other aspects in life. I want to ensure every student is taking the time to rest and do things that bring them joy and avoid burnout. This looks different for every individual, but my goal is to remind students to be kind to themselves.

What's something you tried in college that made a lasting difference in your life?

When I first started college, I was very disconnected from campus life. I went to class, studied in quiet spaces, and went home. As an anxious, introverted college student, I avoided experiences outside the classroom as much as I could, and I regret that. When I started grad school, I decided to put myself in situations I normally wouldn't have. I joined a student organization, a professional organization, and I presented a poster at the Graduate Research and Creative Activity Conference. Through these experiences, I formed connections with so many wonderful and supportive people, and it has had a lasting impact on me. I hope to encourage and support students to do the things they never thought they could!

What was a challenge you faced in college and how did you work through it?

During my time as an undergraduate student, I was convinced my pathway was nursing. I was set on it, and no one could change my mind. By the end of the first week of my second semester in the Nursing program, I realized it was not for me. At this point, I was in my senior year, burnt out, and unsure of what to do. I started by asking for help. Although I thought I could/should handle things on my own, I realized that I had a support network that I could rely on. I connected with my academic advisor, reached out to a career coach, and took the time to rest and take care of myself. That experience allowed me to clear my mind, build a support network, and make the decisions needed to find my new path, which inspired me to pursue a career in Higher Education Student Affairs.

Where did you grow up? What are some fun facts that others may not know about where you grew up?

I grew up in a small city in Downriver Michigan (so not very far away). Although there isn't much to mention about the area, there are multiple beautiful parks within a short driving distance-- a few of which are along the Detroit River. My "second home" is Alpena/Ossineke, Michigan. When I was younger, I would go up there every summer to visit my grandparents in Alpena, and go camping in Ossineke State Forest Campground. A fun fact about Ossineke: it hosts an attraction named Dinosaur Gardens. It's always a fun time to drive through the area and spot giant dinosaur statues amongst the trees!