I attended Mount Mercy University as an undergraduate student; it was the college that offered me the most financial aid and also happened to be the institution that was up the street from my childhood home. It was comfortable and familiar; there were many staff members there who made me feel valued during the admissions process. Because of my experience(s) in higher education as an undergrad, I left with a wealth of gratitude and commitment to work with first-generation students. My bachelor's degree was in English literature and my master's is in Counselor Education (from the University of Iowa - Go Hawks!). I'm passionate about advising students from all walks of life and hope, above all else, that anyone reading this profile will know that while the University of Iowa is a large place, there are many pockets and people who genuinely want you to have success in whatever way you define it.