Hometown

• Fond du Lac, WI

Schools Attended

• University of Wisconsin – Fond du Lac
• University of Wisconsin – La Crosse

Things we can talk about

Pretty much anything! I’m open to talking about living in the halls, getting involved in residential activities and events, finding leadership opportunities, joining student organizations, making friends, feeling at home at Minnesota State Mankato, etc.

I am available for

• Email conversations
• Zoom calls
• Personal meetings on campus

Why I want to be a Maverick Firsts Advocate

I began my college adventure at a two-year community college because I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life and could not afford to figure that out at a more expensive four-year university. Like pants at a department store, I tried on a lot of different majors before settling on one that fit me just right. I later transferred to the university I would graduate from after selecting my Political Science major. Many of the obstacles I encountered as a first-gen student at a smaller two-year campus were magnified in some ways at a larger four-year university, but also lessened in other ways. It was a new place farther from home with services and offices that seemed familiar but were very different than my previous environment. I chose to become a Resident Assistant to try to help newer students in their transition and I fell in love with building connections with students. Even though I had set my sights on changing the world through political activism, I discovered a better fitting pair of jeans in Student Affairs. Changing plans so late in college helped me to realize that there were many, MANY different paths to achieve the same or similar goals.

I was lucky enough to stumble across mentors who pointed me in helpful directions. Not all of my first-generation peers were fortunate like I was. Working in a full-time position at a university now, I want to be that mentor to students on our campus so that you have someone to turn to for guidance or support. I’m happy to be a cheerleader rooting you on throughout your college experience. If I can in any way help you feel connected, empowered, and at home here at Minnesota State Mankato, then let’s chat!

Other items of interest

I have an eclectic taste in music and you can usually find me compiling playlists in my free time. As a former philosophy major, I’m also often found reading books, plays, and short stories by famous philosophers. I love all things nerdy, so if you’re into a fandom, I want to hear about it! I spend a lot of time with my dog, Gracie – she’s a Border collie, Labrador, and Bernese mountain dog mix! Creating equitable environments is important to me so in the past, I have been active in my campus and community’s diversity and social justice organizations!