Q: Why did you choose to come to the University of Missouri?
A: I chose to follow in my oldest sister’s footsteps as she attended the University of Missouri as she enjoyed her time here so much.
Q: Why did you choose to pursue your major?
A: I chose to pursue a major in parks, recreation, sport and tourism because I feel deeply passionate about the industry and believe that I can use my passion as a tool to build a successful in career where I will get to provide opportunities for participants to create lifelong memories.
Q: Were you involved in any extracurricular activities?
A: Within CAFNR, I was involved in Sport, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Association (SPRTA), Rho Phi Lambda, and Women in Sports. Other student organizations that I participated in were a book club called Leading Through Literacy and Mizzou CHAARGE, which is an all-women’s wellness club that varies its weekly workout around Columbia.
Q: Did you partake in any research, study abroad or internship opportunities? What did you enjoy about those experiences?
A: I completed a yearlong internship with Mizzou Athletics in their Event Operations Department. I enjoyed getting to see what happens behind the scenes before and after various sporting events and being a part of making the overall event run smoothly and creating great experiences for fans. This fall, I conducted my capstone internship with Missouri State Parks where I was able to share and build upon my passion for the outdoors and the many activities and events that take place outside.
Q: What is a favorite memory you have during your time in CAFNR?
A: I loved bonding with classmates during various volunteer trips, but the 2024 Missouri Parks and Recreation Association Conference was my favorite.
Q: How did your degree program prepare you for the future?
A: I personally have greatly benefited from the numerous opportunities provided by my program and professors to gain real-life, hands-on experience within the parks and recreation field, while also getting to network with many industry professionals. During my time at Mizzou, my confidence within myself and my abilities has significantly increased, leaving me excited for my future career.
Q: What are your future plans?
A: I hope to move to a new city to become a recreation coordinator for either a municipal city’s parks and recreation department or something in outdoor recreation.