Hometown: I was born in Manhattan, KS but grew up mostly in Missouri
Major: PhD Entomology
Anticipated Date of Graduation: May 2026
Why did you decide to come to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
The phenomenal quality and amount of research being done an UNL was the first thing that attracted me to the university and once I started speaking with the people here, I was really impressed with their level of care and attention to student development.
What is your favorite thing about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln?
I really appreciate how much the faculty, staff and students are engaged in working towards improvement. I feel like this is a place where everyone wants to grow and is empowered to make that happen.
What about diversity and inclusion is important to you when you think about your CASNR experience?
The opportunity to learn from and with students and colleagues with different racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds has been formative as I’ve grown my understanding of the world. I believe that our goal in college should be the pursuit of ever greater understanding and the best way to do that is to connect with as many diverse minds as possible. I am pleased with the way my colleagues have helped me to grow and I look forward to new and unexpected influences on my knowledge, understanding and character from an ever-widening group of unique folks.
Exposure to cultural differences is a huge part of college. What activity have you recently participated in that is different from what you are used to in your culture? This could be something you read, listened to, watched, eaten or otherwise taken part in. What did you learn from this activity?
In the spring I was invited to attend a Holi celebration by an Indian friend of mine. I had of course seen photos of the Festival of Colors and was excited! It was very cold, and I was feeling a bit uncomfortable still as it was the first group event I had attended since the beginning of the pandemic. However, I had a wonderful time surrounded by singing, dancing, pigment throwing humanity and left feeling pretty emotional about the beauty of our world and hopeful for the future. I was covered in blues and greens and reds when I got home, evidence of all the connections I’d made with people. It will likely be a memory I carry for life.
What is your favorite class you have taken so far and why?
I was able to take a scientific illustration course with Lana Johnson last semester. I had a lot of fun taking a more artistic view of insects as I have been deep in research mode for several years now.
What are your plans post-graduation?
I hope to pursue a career in academia and continue conducting research. I am hopeful that I will be able to work towards a more sustainable and supportive agricultural system and decreases the time, effort, and cost burden on growers while preserving the health of Nebraska ecosystems.
What's life like outside of school?
Outside of school I like to read Sci-Fi and fantasy books, travel, draw and design and bake.
What scholarships, if any, have you received?
I’m partially supported by the Othmer fellowship and have also received the David H. & Annie E. Larrick Memorial travel scholarship.