Title: Resident Director
Department: Residence Life
Where are you from? Hiawatha, IA
What brought you to Student Affairs?
My passion for working with college students started in undergrad when I was a Resident Advisor. I wasn’t sure in what capacity I wanted to work with college students, so I pursued my MSW so I would have options. During grad school, I explored working in and advocacy/peer education office at a university as well as mental health/substance use at a treatment facility. I love working with mental health and crisis while also working with college students. Being a Resident Director, I get lots of experience working with college students in a variety of situations. Ideally my next step is to work in an advocacy office or counseling center.
How many years have you worked in Student Affairs at Northwestern? 1
What’s your favorite part about working in Student Affairs?I love working with the students and seeing their growth. So much happens in a student’s life and helping them grow into who they want to be is a magical thing!
What recommendation(s) do you have for someone new to Student Affairs?
Don’t take things personally and find passions outside of work. In Student Affairs, students can say/do things that get to you, but it is important to not take it personally and to continue to do your best work. Also, this field can take a lot out of you and be difficult to find work/life balance, so finding things you like outside of work is very important to help you draw those boundaries!
Who or what has had the greatest influence on your career?
I think personal experience (both what I did have and what I wish I had during my college experience) and the experience I want my little sister to have is a big influence on me and what I want to do with my career.
What inspires you?
Music and people. I find meaning and inspiration in so many songs and can always find something to fit my mood. Three out my four tattoos are song lyrics and remind me to take care of myself everyday. I also think seeing others follow their dreams and passions is very inspiring to me to always do my best and be better than the day before.
What can’t you live without?
My dog, Sam. I got him June 2018, he will be 3 this coming June! He is a cream color cockapoo and I love him to pieces! He is truly like a child to me and can’t imagine where I would be without him, even though I haven’t had him for even two full years.
How do you like to spend your free time?
Walking my dog, going to the movies, singing, painting, and sleeping!
What’s your favorite spot on campus?The lake! So nice to go out on cool nights (I live on campus) and see the skyline. Hearing the waves crashing is very relaxing and I feel at peace there.