I was born in McCook, Nebraska, in May 2005 to two loving parents. My mother works as a postmaster, and my father is a school bus driver for our local school district. I am my mother’s only child and my father’s only daughter, although I also have a half-brother who is approximately twelve years older than me. When I was about three years old, my family moved to Benkelman, Nebraska, because of my mother’s work.
Growing up in a small community had a significant influence on who I am today. Benkelman has a population of approximately 800 people, and I attended Dundy County-Stratton Schools throughout my entire education. My graduating class consisted of approximately 17 students. While growing up in such a small town provided me with a close-knit community, it also encouraged me to become involved in many different activities and pursue opportunities outside of my comfort zone.
I have always considered myself an ambitious and involved person. Throughout high school, I participated in a variety of extracurricular activities, particularly those related to the arts and communication. I was involved in band, choir, show choir, Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), one-act, and student council. These experiences helped me develop my confidence, communication skills, creativity, and ability to work with others.
I also began working at a young age. My first job was as a fry cook at the Dub Drive-In. Later, I was given an opportunity to work as a board operator at Hometown Family Radio Station. This position was particularly meaningful because it introduced me to the media industry and allowed me to gain hands-on experience in broadcasting. I primarily worked nights and helped manage the operation of live football, volleyball, and basketball broadcasts. I was also responsible for updating the station’s social media accounts with scores and other information during games. This experience played an important role in developing my interest in media production and communications.
In May 2024, I graduated from Dundy County-Stratton High School. During the three-month period between graduating high school and beginning college, I worked at the local golf course as a bartender. Once I began college at Drake University, I continued working while pursuing my degree. During the fall semester of my freshman year, I worked as a front desk attendant for Drake University Housing. During the spring semester of my freshman year, I began working as a bridal stylist at David’s Bridal, where I gained valuable experience in customer service, sales, and helping customers make important decisions.
During my sophomore year, I also worked with Drake Broadcasting System as a social media manager. This position allowed me to combine my interest in media, sports, and digital communication while gaining additional experience creating and managing content for social media platforms.
For the past year, I have worked as an associate at Express, where I have continued developing my customer service, communication, and leadership skills. Recently, I was promoted to Operations Expert, giving me additional responsibilities related to store operations and leadership.
My education, work experience, and involvement in media and extracurricular activities have all contributed to my professional goals. Each opportunity has helped me become more confident, adaptable, and willing to take on new challenges. As I continue my education at Drake University, I hope to build upon these experiences and prepare myself for a career that combines communications, media, politics, and law.