Where did you complete your Undergraduate Studies?
Eastern Kentucky University
What degree are you working toward?
I am working towards an M.S.Ed Higher Education and Student Affairs degree. A couple of different focus areas pique my interest, including, alumni relations and development, first-generation college students, black students, and queer students of color.
Why did you choose graduate school at IU Bloomington?
I chose IU because of the financial support I received from my graduate assistantship in Residential Programs and Services. In addition to that, my program (HESA) is the #5 program in the country, so in many ways, the degree speaks for itself. Coming to IU for graduate school has afforded me many connections with people who have obtained both masters and doctoral degrees from many different disciplines and this has allowed me to engage and inform the work that I do from multiple lens.
What's been your favorite academic accomplishment since you've been here?
Academically, I have had some courses at IU that have challenged me from within and outside of HESA That said, with the effort put into my classes, I am most proud to say I have earned a cumulative 4.0 GPA for both semesters of my first year as a first-generation, low-income, graduate student.
What do you enjoy most about life in Bloomington?
The people in Bloomington, specifically students of color are phenomenal. I have never felt more challenged and supported from people coming from different walks of life. While it took a while to find refuge, I find it well worth it. I also think Bloomington is a college town, however, the town welcomes students and vice versa. Bloomington is also in a nice proximity to leave--it's not completely Podunk.
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