As a queer/nonbinary first-gen student, I had no idea what to expect when I arrived at the University of Iowa at eighteen. I graduated from a high school class of 56 students in rural Iowa. Suddenly I was dropped into a sea of thousands. It was overwhelming and lonely until I found my footing. I would have appreciated having someone I could ask the "dumb" questions that everybody else seemed to already have the answers to; someone who understands what it's like to be dropped into an environment they were given no preparation for. I left Iowa after I graduated and swore I'd never return. And I didn't for twenty-five years. I lived in multiple cities and made my living as a theatre artist for much of it. Then I began to feel a pull toward mentorship and teaching. I was ready to give back and help the next generation find and pursue the kinds of lives they dream about. So I came back to do just that. It gives me such joy to see the spark brighten a young person's eyes when they feel truly seen and supported.