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Can you describe your journey before Ball State University?

I went to Plymouth High School in Plymouth, Indiana. I competed on the speech and debate team for 4 years, I then became the team captain my senior year.

What made you decide on your major at Ball State? 

I have always been passionate about government, so I declared as a Political Science major. I also joined the debate team and I spent a lot of time in Letterman just enjoying the people around me. That is when I decided to be a Communication Studies major. I have always seen communication as a vital part of our society, so learning more and developing my passion was a great experience.

What has been your favorite class or career opportunity during your time at Ball State?

My favorite class at Ball State has to either be Political Communication or Political Campaigns. My favorite career opportunity would be getting an internship with the East Central Indiana Regional Planning District. I loved working on grant writing and economic development to help improve Muncie and the surrounding areas.

Could you give us the top three projects you have worked on?

1. Grant writing Judicial Users Manufacturing Partnership program. I have been the lead grant writer to help fund this program, and thus far we have received $30,000 with another $60,000 pending. 2. Completing my rhetorical criticism about the speech former president Trump gave on January 6th, in COMM 412 Rhetorical Criticism and Theory. 3. Running a simulated election in Political Campaigns.

What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?

I was named a top 100 student, and that was a proud moment for me.

Have you won any awards for your work? If so, what are they and which ones are the most significant to you?

Many individual debate awards for competitive success. State Champion in Parliamentary Debate and winning several invitational tournaments. I was also a National Educational Debate Association All-American Top 100 student at Ball State, winning my first grant for $5,000.

What are your plans after college? 

I will be continuing my education by getting a Master’s in Public Administration.

Who are your mentors?

My mentor is Dr. Beth Messner.

Are you involved in any student organizations at Ball State? 

Current SGA Senator – Chair of the Collegiate Caucus and Academic Affairs Committee CCIM Dean’s Advisory Council – Chair CSH Dean’s Advisory Council – Political Science Representative. Debate Team – Member and Co-Captain Former Kinghorn Hall – President Accelerate Summer Bridge Program – Co-Director

What do you think is most important about Ball State?

Students can create change both on-campus and out in the community. So go out and get involved, the opportunities will come to you.

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