Where are you from? I am from Donahue, Iowa.
Why did you choose Kirkwood? I chose Kirkwood because I had heard so many wonderful things about Kirkwood’s health-related programs. I was eager to attend college, but was looking for somewhere that was affordable and could help me grow in my academic life and personal in a “home” away from home—and Kirkwood was the perfect fit.
What is your major and how did you choose it? Surgical technology is what I am currently majoring in and I chose it because I have always had a strong passion for surgery and a desire to be involved in the surgical team. After contemplating the different roles I could peruse in the OR, surgical technology seemed like the perfect fit—and that held to be true. I am in love with the program here at Kirkwood and am learning so much from teachers who have provided the best educational experience.
What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood? My proudest moment here at Kirkwood has been earning a spot on the Deans list each semester. I have pushed myself to dig deep into my education here and it has been exciting for me to see it pay off, especially now that I am nearing graduation.
What are your plans after Kirkwood? After Kirkwood I plan to take my certification exam to become a Certified Surgical Technologist. Afterwards, my plan is to work in the area as a CST for a couple of years before potentially perusing traveling as part of my career.
What inspires or motivates you? I am inspired by my professors. Melissa and Mike have so openly shared their knowledge and passion of this career with us students, sharing their own stories and experiences with us to ease our minds and ignite the fire in our hearts– and it reaffirms my own desire to become a surgical technologist with every single interaction we have. I am motivated by my partner who supports me constantly so that I can put my all into working towards my future. Their support motivates me to persevere through every stage and never give up on fulfilling my dreams.
Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood. Outside of being a student I enjoy painting and viewing art—especially local artists, listening to a wide variety of music, thrifting clothes, and playing with my sweet cats Bean and Soup.
What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? Being named an Outstanding Student is truly an honor. However, an outstanding student is not without incredible people who surround them. I am extremely thankful for my professors who have created an environment that makes learning truly exciting, interesting and a place where I feel comfortable to ask questions and expand my knowledge. I have never met anyone like them, and I am endlessly thankful to be part of this program. An outstanding student puts in a great deal of work—in and outside of the classroom. You have to be very serious about what you want. It might mean you have to do hard things such as staying up late, or rushing to work after a long day of school. You’ll certainly have to endure a healthy amount of stress—but ultimately in the end, when you are working in a rewarding career, it is worth every single second of the process.
Categories: Outstanding Students
