Where are you from? I am from Mount Vernon, Iowa. I grew up in Mount Vernon and then transferred to West Delaware after moving to Lake Delhi before my junior year of high school.
Why did you choose Kirkwood? I chose Kirkwood because of its affordability, small class sizes, flexibility, and location! I was able to take classes through NICC in high school, which transferred toward my Kirkwood education.
What is your major and how did you choose it? I chose to study Business Administration: Marketing Management because of its various employment opportunities following graduation. With such a broad study, I’ve had the opportunity to learn and develop a variety of business-related skills. I love to work with people, see what appeals to them, and try new techniques!
What has been your proudest moment at Kirkwood? My proudest moment at Kirkwood has been being nominated as an Outstanding Student! It’s incredible to know that multiple professors from the Marketing Management department see me as an Outstanding Student. I’ve had my fair share of busy semesters filled with group projects and large assignments, all balanced with work and personal life! It’s great to see that all this hard work hasn’t gone unnoticed. While putting in this work to make the most of my education, I also see the importance of growing and learning in other ways such as professionally and as a teammate, peer, and co-worker.
What are your plans after Kirkwood? Upon graduation in May, I plan on entering the workforce full-time. I’ve been working at Shive-Hattery in Cedar Rapids as an HR Specialist and will likely continue my career with Shive!
What inspires or motivates you? I’m inspired and motivated by building relationships, inspiring others, generating enthusiasm and seeing results.
Tell us who you are outside of Kirkwood. Outside of Kirkwood, I spend a lot of my time working at Shive-Hattery and serving at Iowa Athletic Club. Aside from school and work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, being outside, and summers on Lake Delhi!
What does being named an Outstanding Student mean to you? Being named an Outstanding Student is a great accomplishment that I’m proud to receive; It’s great to know that my professors see my daily contributions and commitments. While working to make the most of each class I’m enrolled in, I also attempt to build relationships with my peers & professors. Through cultivating these relationships, I can build connections between students that may not have met otherwise.
Is there anything else you’d like to add? I’d like to shout out a professor I’ve had for a total of 16 credits throughout my time at Kirkwood and would choose time and time again, Mark Abel. Mark makes that effort to learn about you as a student and person, making valuable connections with each student he teaches. His teaching style is effective, yet fun; I’m sure others would agree that Mark has made a positive impact on their education. He’s been a major support throughout various classes, projects, internships, and employment opportunities. Congratulations on your upcoming retirement, Mark!
Categories: Outstanding Students
