Where are you from?
Le Mars, Iowa
Was there a specific moment or person that inspired you to pursue a graduate degree in engineering?
When working as an undergraduate research assistant at Iowa, I was completing a project that benefited thousands of people across the Midwest by improving the effectiveness of existing infrastructure. I have always felt the need to help people which is why I went into engineering and started this project during my undergrad. As time drew closer to graduation, I had two faculty members reach out to me about starting a new project that had a similar magnitude of influence as the former one, but this time being located solely within Iowa. Initially, I contemplated if I had the skills to take on this job/project even with the guidance of my advisors. Then, I thought of my life goal - to improve lives in the Midwest by using applied engineering. The combination of influential advisors, a great location (Iowa City), fulfilling project scope, friendly supporting staff, cutting-edge resources, and an engineering desire is what encourage me to purse a graduate degree in engineering.
What drew you to the University of Iowa?
The University of Iowa offers a unique education partnership for a master’s degree in water resources engineering (my current degree path). IIHR – Hydroscience & Engineering is a world-renowned institution that focuses on cutting-edge research and design. What captured me is this institution promotes deep dives into projects that are socially and environmentally relevant engineering issues. Additionally, the faculty and staff at IIHR and University of Iowa welcome collaboration within my class when dealing with a multidisciplinary issue. I cannot imagine a better learning environment where we are encouraged to learn beyond the covers of a textbook.
What makes the University of Iowa a good fit for you?
Iowa’s collaborative environment and small class sizes make learning personal and engaging. The strong connection between students, faculty, and staff fosters both academic success and professional growth.
What activities are you involved in besides academics?
I participate in public outreach events for the Iowa Flood Center which brings awareness to the effects of changing landcover has on flooding in Iowa for a range of audiences from K-12 to adults. More importantly, we discuss the technical expertise the Iowa Flood Center provides for Iowa communities in need. Additionally, a past activity I was involved in during my graduate program is known as University of Iowa Chapter of American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). Fun projects like building a concrete canoe and the annual corn monument are some of the highlights of this student organization! Finally, intramural sports like Co-Rec football and sand volleyball promotes a fun and competitive environment among students.
What accomplishment are you most proud of during your time at Iowa?
Developing strong communication skills as an engineer—learning to effectively share complex ideas with broad audiences. Support from the Hanson Center for Communication within the College of Engineering has been instrumental in this growth.
What do you like most about living in Iowa City?
The social connection between the University of Iowa and the surrounding communities of Iowa City is unprecedented. Personally, I have a few (too many) hobbies I like to tend to over the school year which is made possible by this organic relationship between the city and this college. Festivals, events, concerts, parades, conferences, and the supporting facilities create a welcoming environment of joy!
What are your plans after graduation?
I plan to join the industry as an engineer focused on water resource projects for communities. Overall, flood prevention and mitigation are the specific areas I would like to be in. Ultimately, I aspire to become a flood infrastructure liaison with Midwest communities.
To someone considering enrolling in the engineering graduate program at Iowa, what would tell them about your experience?
Iowa provides diverse project opportunities, hands-on experience, and a supportive community that empowers you to make a real impact through engineering.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I grew up in the “Ice Cream Capital of the World”!
