I was born in Aberdeen SD, and have lived there my whole life. I currently attend Northern State University for Elementary and Special Education. On campus, I am involved with the South Dakota Education Association (SDEA) and am an officer for the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Both clubs have allowed me to attend workshops and gain experience teaching children, both of which will be very valuable for my future. In addition, I also co-lead the Campus Crusaders for Christ (Cru) club on campus.

While earning my degree at Northern, I have substitute taught in the Aberdeen School District. I am thankful for the opportunities that subbing has afforded to me. I have gained many skills in classroom management and communication/collaboration with other teachers.

Outside of school, I love volunteering at my church. I teach 7th grade Sunday School and assist the Youth Group at special events. I also spend my weekends from January to March at Upward Basketball and Cheerleading. I work the Concession stand and I referee games as needed.

At different points throughout the year, I also have a few different jobs. The one that takes most of my time is at Roll Out Bike Rentals at Wylie Park. I love this job because I get to meet people from all around the U.S. and even the world. I get to meet all different types of families and witness their joy while working together to ride a Surrey (a 3-6-person bike) for the first time. I have also gained many skills in fixing the bikes- which I love! I have had a great time looking at the bikes and taking them apart to solve the puzzle of what is wrong and how to fix it. Another job I hold is one of the most relaxing jobs. I pour bottles of wood stain and other remodeling products. Being able to listen to my favorite music while doing a fairly simple job is a great stress reliever for me. During the school year, I also referee middle school volleyball and judge high school speech debate, an activity I was very involved with during my high school career. During my senior year in debate, my partner and I even made it to top 20 in the nation- a huge accomplishment for our team! In addition, I tutor for a few local families. I enjoy teaching in a relaxed environment as I support kids as they work through some tough schoolwork.