Where are you from? Waukee, Iowa!

Was there a specific moment or person that inspired you to choose engineering as a career path?

When I started my education at Iowa, I was a public health major. During my first semester, I was enrolled in an honors seminar focusing on the grand challenges of sustainability, and that was where I first learned about environmental engineering. Professor David Cwiertny of the civil and environmental engineering department gave a guest lecture to my seminar about how water quality issues related to agriculture had major downstream impacts all the way down to the Gulf of Mexico. I was fascinated by the topic, and I decided I wanted to explore issues surrounding water quality and hydrology. I also found myself wanting to pursue some more math and science classes, so environmental engineering was a perfect fit for me. At first, I worried that switching majors would put me behind my peers, but it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

What drew you to the University of Iowa? What makes the University of Iowa a good fit for you?

I am from Iowa, so I liked that the University of Iowa was close enough to home for me to visit. I also knew that I wanted to continue marching band in college at a school with a large band. The College of Engineering, in particular, has been a great fit because of its strong sense of community. While I love being at a large university, big lecture halls can sometimes feel overwhelming. I appreciate that many engineering classes have smaller class sizes, and professors, teaching assistants, and tutors are always accessible.

What activities are you involved in besides academics?

I have been an undergraduate TA for several of my favorite classes. I have also been a member of the Hawkeye Marching Band for the past four years (proud mellophone player!). This year, I was co-band manager for the band, overseeing the logistical crew that keeps our athletic bands running. Additionally, I am the president of the University of Iowa Women’s Rugby Club. Being a part of a team sport was important to me after high school, and being involved with a sports club has been a great way for me to play competitively—even representing the University of Iowa nationally at the Collegiate Rugby Championships—while balancing a busy course load. I also train jiu jitsu at Citadel BJJ, an independent gym in the Iowa City area.

Have you gained professional experience as an intern?

I have not yet completed an internship. I have spent the last few summers touring and performing with the Colts Drum & Bugle Corps. During my time with the Colts, I held multiple leadership positions and learned invaluable communication and conflict resolution skills that have prepared me well to work with diverse groups of people. This upcoming summer, I’m excited to complete an internship with Locus Technologies, working directly with an Accredited Lead Verifier under the Cap-and-Trade programs along the West Coast to learn more about environmental regulation and enforcement. I’m also excited to expand my horizons by learning more about air quality, as I have spent a lot of my education focused on water. 

What do you like most about living in Iowa City?

I love the way the campus and downtown are integrated. I can easily walk to my classes, the Main Library, and other campus amenities, as well as nearby grocery stores, pharmacies, and coffee shops.

What are your plans after graduation?

I am currently enrolled in the Undergraduate-2-Graduate degree program. I will be graduating with my BSE this spring, and then I will complete my master’s degree in environmental engineering in spring 2026. My plans beyond that are still pretty open, but I am excited to take challenging classes next year that will help my career path take shape.

To someone considering enrolling in engineering at Iowa, what would tell them about your experience?

The University of Iowa College of Engineering offers an incredible learning experience with countless opportunities to get involved. Whether it’s through student organizations, research, or teaching assistantships, there’s always a way to grow outside the classroom. What really stands out to me is that Iowa doesn’t just focus on technical skills—it also emphasizes communication and other essential 'soft' skills that are invaluable in the workforce. The CoE is committed to shaping well-rounded engineers, and I’m excited to apply everything I’ve learned in my future career!

Tell us a fun fact about yourself.

I have an identical twin who is also studying engineering!