I grew up north of Stapleton, Nebraska on a cow-calf operation where early mornings, late nights, and a little bit of dirt were just part of everyday life. From checking cows in the cold to fixing fences in the summer heat, agriculture taught me the value of hard work, responsibility, and showing up even when it’s not always convenient. Growing up on a ranch didn’t just shape my work ethic — it shaped who I am.

I was raised by my dad alongside my twin sister, which meant we learned pretty quickly how to be independent, work together, and figure things out as we went. Whether we were helping with chores or tackling new challenges, we learned that hard work and a good sense of humor go a long way. Living in rural Nebraska also taught me the importance of community and supporting one another, something I carry into my teaching today. 

My passion for agriculture continued to grow through my involvement in livestock judging. I had the opportunity to judge at Northeast Community College, where I traveled and competed at contests across the country, including the American Royal in Kansas City and Judging on the Green in Louisville, Kentucky. These experiences allowed me to develop strong decision-making, communication, and teamwork skills while gaining exposure to different sectors of the agricultural industry. Livestock judging played a significant role in shaping my confidence and leadership abilities, and it continues to influence how I approach teaching today. I'm currently a junior at UNL and plan on student teaching in Battle Creek this coming spring.

I am currently an Agricultural Education major because I believe agriculture classrooms are some of the best places for students to learn real-world skills. Agricultural education isn’t just about animals or plants — it’s about leadership, problem-solving, and preparing students for life after high school. My goal is to create a classroom where students feel comfortable learning, asking questions, and trying new things — even if that means getting a little dirt on their boots along the way.

When I’m not in the classroom, you can usually find me outside, helping on the ranch, or staying involved in agriculture any chance I get. I believe in working hard, showing up for students, and keeping things real. I’m excited to share my passion for agriculture and help students build skills, confidence, and opportunities for their future — and hopefully have a little fun while we’re at it.