Major: Geography
Year in school: Junior
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Why did you select your major? Were there any experiences that convinced you to declare?
I chose to major in Geography because I had taken a few courses in the school of natural resources that were cross listed with Geography and I thought it would be a good major to choose since I was a
little behind having transferred and already changed my major. Geography has so many interdisciplinary fields of study to choose from, if you can find one facet that will serve you well in the future it is a great major to choose!
What is your favorite course you have taken from your program and why?
My favorite course I have taken is a course I am enrolled in currently called Geographies of Health (GEOG 441). It is especially relevant during a global pandemic, but it discusses the spatial and temporal aspects of public health outcomes and access. I know it is just began, but I think it will be a wonderful perspective to take on the health and medical fields, especially with the field of public health growing so rapidly.
Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
My strongest mentors and role models here have been my career coach, Kristen Aldrich, and my boss, Justin Ellerbe, at the Campus Rec. Kristen has helped me determine what I want for me future for the last 1.5 years. She has encouraged my exploration, never faltered in her support for me, and is the reason I feel comfortable not knowing exactly what I want to do (but I do have a plan!). Justin mentors me through my daily struggles and those same big questions I need answered about my future. He is always there to talk and share his experiences and advice!
Have you had an internship/job? If so, please describe it and explain how your major helped you with it.:
I am an intern for the Quarters Neighborhood Association, a neighborhood between Midtown and Downtown in Omaha, NE. I mainly help with social media accounts and running the website.
Geography has helped me in this role, because it allows me to visualize the neighborhood through a spatial and cultural lens. It matters how people view the place the live and how it makes them feel—place is more important than location.
Did you/are you going to study abroad? If so, describe the experience.:
I studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark after my freshman year for 3 weeks during the summer through DIS Copenhagen. I took an Environmental Philosophy class in one of the most sustainable cities in the world, it was a fantastic experience.
What are you involved in on campus?
I am the president of the UNL Crew Club on campus. It is the club rowing team. I started rowing my freshman year at my previous university and have really enjoyed it ever since. We have our own
boathouse on campus and row at Pawnee Lake when the weather is nice. It is a great workout, a fun way to meet friends, and the views are always great on the water! Follow us on Instagram @nebraska_rowing
What are your plans after graduation?
My post-graduation plans are to serve with City Year Philadelphia. I will be working in schools mentoring and tutoring students next school year! After that I want to serve with the Peace Corps and then move into public administration and community development.
