I chose Heidelberg because it felt like home. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s true. The people here were so welcoming when I came on my first visit. They made me feel like I belonged here on campus. I visited multiple times before I decided that I wanted to go here. Each time I came to campus, I could picture myself thriving in this environment. It was unlike any other college campus that I had visited.
I majored in Biology because I fell in love with science. I came in undecided and took a wide variety of classes to see what I enjoyed the most. I also found myself drawn to the explanations behind why and how biological systems worked. When I took genetics my sophomore year, it solidified my choice to major in biology. I knew that I wanted my career to incorporate genetics in some way. I realized that with a degree in biology, I would be able to pursue my dream career of genetic counseling.
A major challenge I encountered while at Heidelberg was learning to prioritize my mental health while balancing my responsibilities. I handled it by reflecting on my emotions and feelings consistently. When I felt too stressed and was swamped with assignments, I would ask for help. Professors were more than willing to accommodate me when I needed it. I am forever grateful for the faculty here at Heidelberg. They showed me that it’s OK to admit that you need help.
Above all, Heidelberg prepared me to challenge myself, not only in the classroom but as a person too. I have learned to challenge my perspective and be open to other ways of thinking. Heidelberg has prepared me to learn every single day, whether it is academic content or a stranger’s name. As I continue through life, I will strive to make learning a priority every day.
Outside of the classroom, I was involved in softball for my first two years. I have also been involved with Residence Life for the past three years. I also have been in Tri-Beta since my sophomore year. Since I stopped playing softball, I have been dedicated to being the softball team's biggest cheerleader. I love going to their games and cheering them on!
My favorite extracurricular activity was playing softball because it gave me life-long friends and mentors. I miss playing the game with my entire being. I loved everything about game days, from getting my hair braided to gearing up to go behind the plate. The amazing women that I have met through the softball team have empowered me to be the person I am today.
One faculty or staff mentor or advisor who impacted my ‘Berg experience is Kristen Snyder. Since my sophomore year, she has been a huge mentor to me and supported me in everything that I have done. She has been there for me in my lowest points and also celebrated my greatest successes. She is truly one of the people who has made the greatest impact on my experience here. I am so lucky to have such an amazing relationship with her!!
My advice to new freshman would be don’t be afraid to make mistakes. You don’t have to try to be perfect. The truth is, no one is perfect. There will be days when you don’t feel like you can give 100% effort and that’s OK. Reflect on those days and be productive the next day. Let yourself feel all your feelings and use your support system when you need it. But most of all, enjoy it and have fun!
My favorite Heidelberg memory is going to Florida for softball during my sophomore year. We were having a great trip until we found out the pandemic had cancelled our season. It was horribly sad, but everyone banded together and we played the rest of our games as a family. Since our season was coming to a close, we planned a last-minute senior day celebration and even though it wasn’t planned, it still came together nicely. I also performed a tap dance to win the talent show, which was probably the highlight of the trip for me!
My plans after graduation are to take a gap year and increase my experience with the field of genetic counseling. I will also be applying for Master’s programs in genetic counseling for the upcoming application cycle!