Where are you from? I grew up in Solon, and currently reside in West Liberty, Iowa.
Why did you choose Kirkwood? I chose Kirkwood because I was going to finish my General Education courses before moving into a degree and believed that Kirkwood was the best choice for that.
What is your major and how did you choose it? I am currently double majoring in Computer Support Specialist (CSS) and Network and System Administration (NaSA). I chose my first degree because I took Computer Concepts on a whim to explore the CSS and NaSA programs and discovered that they fit my personal interests perfectly. I was also heavily encouraged to join the program by Professor Matt Kempf.
What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood? My proudest moment at Kirkwood so far was when our Cyber Defense Club team was awarded 1st Place at the C3 ISEAGE competition hosted by Iowa State University in December 2022.
What are your plans after Kirkwood? My post-graduation plan is to jump directly into the workforce.
What inspires or motivates you? First is the wonderful faculty for the CSS and NaSA programs – without all their encouragement, I doubt I would have gotten as far as I have. Second, I am inspired and motivated by my peers and seniors in the Cyber Defense Club. My involvement with them has driven my engagement with course content to another level. Finally, I am motivated and encouraged by my fiancé. Her commitment to my success at times surpasses my own and I am endlessly appreciative.
Tell us about who you are outside of Kirkwood. My hobbies and interests include playing games on my computer and consoles, soccer and reading. I work at the local library in West Liberty when I am on breaks.
What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? Being named Outstanding Student is proverbial fuel for the fire that continues to motivate me as I progress through my programs. I am proud to be named as a positive representative of my program and determined to continue achieving excellence.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I would like to thank Matt Kempf for his endless mentorship through this program, as well as the West Liberty Public Library Director Allie Paarsmith for being flexible with my class schedule and allowing me to prioritize my schooling. I would also like to add a special thank you to Benjamin Merz and to the Cyber Defense Club for encouraging me to pursue and surpass my limits.
Categories: Outstanding Students
