Hometown

• Wabasso, MN (home of the Rabbits!)

Schools Attended

• St. Mary’s University of Winona (BA, theatre and psychology)
• Minnesota State Mankato (MS, experiential education)
• Intercultura Language Institute (Spanish language courses) Heredia, Costa Rica
• Escuela Mexicana (Spanish language courses) Guanajuato, Mexico

Things we can talk about

• Anything you care to discuss - any questions you may have
• Figuring out/paying for college on your own; working through college; balancing work, school, and play
• Studying abroad; learning another language
• College adjustments & support systems
• Film and/or theatre (I love movies and good theatre!)
• Minnesota Vikings (and the pain of being a Viking fan)
• Growing up on a farm outside a small town in a big family (I have 10 siblings)

I am available for

Coffee, conversations, and advising:

• In-person
• Over Zoom
• Over Email

Why I want to be a Maverick Firsts Advocate

I wise friend once said, “Community is the work”. I am excited to participate in this community toward the good work of supporting first-gen students.

I was a first-generation college student before we the term was created. I relied on my friends, dorm-mates, and the generosity of others (particularly those in the financial aid office) to get me through my undergrad years. My college experience was hard (but fun!) and left a deep impression on me; it became a driving force in my desire to be the person, friend, advisor to others I wish I would have had. I want to be a Maverick Firsts Advocate so I am in a better position to support first-generation students and to connect with and advocate for YOU and to hear more about YOUR experiences, questions, and needs.

Other items of interest

• I worked in study abroad for 20 years, and now work in the student success division. I hire work study students each year to staff a phone-based Student Connections Team. Let me know if you’d like to hear more about student employment and/or the benefits of study abroad/away.
• My artist side is involved in videography, writing, and theatre – mediums which illustrate the power of stories. I love a good story. We all have our own experiences and stories which shape and define us. I would be honored to hear part of what makes you YOU – part of your story.