Education Major
I chose Heidelberg because I loved the small, tight-knit community and the opportunities I would have. I wanted to also run and be a part of the cross country team and study early childhood education at Heidelberg because I heard how amazing the education program is.
I majored in primary education because I have wanted to be a teacher my whole life. I've always loved working with kids and I wanted to be able to impact as many as I could. I minored in athletic coaching because I have participated in sports since I was young and I would love to continue my love of sports by coaching either running or swimming.
A major challenge I encountered while at Heidelberg was my mother being diagnosed with breast cancer. My mom is the rock of my family and it was very difficult to watch her go through something so hard. This challenge made it difficult for me to maintain focus in my classes and athletics. However, I handled this challenge by distracting myself on campus by going to all different events, hanging out with my friends regularly, and going home to be with my mom whenever she needed it. My sorority and professors all supported me when I started to struggle with my studies and pushed me to continue to work hard and finish strong.
Above all, Heidelberg prepared me to tackle any challenges that life throws at me. Heidelberg taught me to not let the challenges you face make you discouraged, instead use them to motivate you to push through and come out on top.
Outside of the classroom, I was involved in cross country, track, Kappa Psi Omega, and the Sig Hons. This year I also got the privilege to be a team leader for the G.A.P. tutoring program.
My favorite extra-curricular activity was being a part of Kappa Psi Omega because I got to make a ton of lifelong friends and memories. We got to help out in the community and plan fun events for people all over campus to participate in.
One faculty or staff mentor or advisor who impacted my 'Berg experience is my professor, Dr. Stacey Pistorova because when I doubted myself she was always there pushing and encouraging me to do my best. She is a big reason why I stayed with education and got through school. Dr. Pistorova has given me multiple opportunities to show what I am capable of and I will forever be grateful for her.
My advice to new freshman would be to not be afraid to try new things and to constantly put yourself out there. Meet new people and make new friends. Starting a new chapter of your life can be scary but if you put in the effort to explore new possibilities and opportunities you may surprise yourself with the experiences you get to have.
My favorite Heidelberg memory is going through New Member Education when I joined Kappa Psi Omega. I got to learn all the history of Kappa and what it meant to be a part of the group. Kappa NME showed me why I wanted to be a part of a group of such strong individuals. It definitely wasn't easy but I wouldn't have changed my experience for anything.
My plans after graduation are to find a teaching job in an elementary school. I would like to teach first or second grade. I also plan on becoming a coach for either a swim team or a cross country/track team.