I’m originally from Vandalia, Ohio, but now reside in Chicago, IL. I graduated from the Univeristy of Chicago in 2025 with a degree in Sociology, I also minored in Education and Society.

In my free time I love watching movies and spending quality time with friends. I’m also trying to tap into my creative side and pick up new hobbies!

I spend 3 months studying abroad in Istanbul, Turkey as a Gilman Scholar. It was my first time outside of the United States and was one of the most memorble experienecs of my life, from the people, my courses, traveling to differnt destinations, and of course the food!

A major difference I noticed early between me and my peers was our access to resources. Not only between me and continuing generation students, but other first-gen folks who had mentors and programs in high school to assist their collegiate journey. Most of my path to college was self motivated, but through enrichment programs during my first-year I learned how important targeted resources and mentors can be.

Uplifting the first-generation, low-income community on my campus became both my academic and professional intrests. The more invested I became the better I felt and the stronger a support network I built! I learned about scholarships, grants, services, and free travel opportunities because of these networks.

My goal as a college coach is to empower students to seize all the opportunities presented to them and to build a supportive community who celebrates all their wins. One person really does make all the differnece!

Some advice I’d like to pass on is to remember that you can try new things alone. It’s scary, but the most rewarding things in life are! Depending on friends to attend a new club meeting or to eat at a new restruant, or on your courses to read that article or book, only limits what you’re exposed to. Remember, you can always just leave if this new thing isn’t for you. But you’d never have know if you didn’t try.

Similarly, if a friend or someone you’d like to know better invites you somewhere new– say yes! (If you’ve done your homework already of course) Spontenanity can lead to new advantures, friends, and the best memories. Allow yourself to leave your comfort zone.