• Hometown: Hamilton, OH
• High School: Lakota West High School
• Class: 2026
• Major: Social Work
• Current Place of Employment: Target

Why Miami University?

I was really interested in Miami University, but did not have the funds available to me in order to apply there. However, after hearing from a friend that the Hamilton campus was close and affordable, I was sold!

How did you choose your major?

I was originally drawn to psychology, but after talking with a family friend, as well as some of my close friends, I narrowed down my interest to social work. Social work is such an incredibly diverse field, and I knew I was passionate about helping others. I was also especially interested in working in numerous fields (like mental health, substance abuse, gerontology, children/families, and the criminal justice system), and knew that a major like social work would be the most fitting for me.

How have any faculty, staff, or mentors at the University played a significant role in your journey?

Heather Wells was one of my professors during the beginning of my college experience. She is so incredibly smart and has years of experience in the social work field. I always enjoyed talking to her. Dr. Ally Murphy is also another professor who played a huge role in my learning career. She is also incredibly smart and just has a way with people. She was made for the social work field.

Other Notable Experience 

​​The most significant thing I’ve experienced as a student has been self-discovery. Studying and experiencing the real world through volunteering has helped me to better understand who I am and where I fit into society.

Advice to Prospective Students

​​​​If you ever feel overwhelmed or stressed out with schoolwork or figuring out how to balance your social life, home life, job, class, and homework, reach out to professors. Most often than not, they are extremely accommodating and understanding as long as you communicate.

How have you used what you learned in different subjects to solve a problem or come up with a new idea?

The concepts in my social work classes have helped me to become more involved in my community, as well as inside my church. I am starting community outreach with my church, and thanks to my education, I am applying much of what I’ve learned there to my church.

How have you used your knowledge or skills from Miami to positively impact your community or the world around you?

Starting community outreach with my church.

How has Miami helped you build meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds or viewpoints?

Through connections with professors and classmates.

How have you taken on leadership roles or responsibilities — whether in your classes, work, or community — during your time at Miami? What motivated you to step into those roles, and what impact did they have?

Within my church, that is serving the community.