What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

One of my favorite experiences was participating in a digital marketing course and internship program through the Mizzou Global Career Accelerator. I learned from trained individuals and business owners what kind of advertisements bring in the most revenue and what methods exceed expectations. During the program, I obtained certifications for digital ads and e-commerce practices. The program also provided in-depth knowledge and tricks to creating a successful LinkedIn profile as well as making eye-catching resumes.

During my junior year, I joined a few Mizzou Esports clubs where I met and became friends with alumni, students, and even prospective students. Being president of the League of Legends Club has been a wonderful and fulfilling experience. I’ve been able to practice my leadership capabilities and build and maintain a wonderful community. I was also invited to join two honor societies at Mizzou: Lambda Pi Eta and Phi Sigma Pi. During my senior year, I was inducted as secretary of Lambda Pi Eta. Being involved in a community that strives for excellence and helps other students strive for the same excellence has been rewarding and powerful.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My advisor Katie Brueggemann has been the best support and role model. She helped me at my lowest points in life and kept me on track to complete my degree.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My experience with A&S faculty has been unmatched, specifically within Textile and Apparel Management (TAM), which was the reason I came to Mizzou. One person who has changed my life is Nicolette Leiby. Nicolette was my advisor when I first came to Mizzou, but she also has been my assistant teaching professor and the advisor for the Association of Textile and Apparel Management. During these past four years, Nicolette has been my mentor, coaching me when I’ve been lost, mentoring me through my mistakes, and cheering for me through my wins. She is someone I can aspire to be like in my life. She is dedicated to student success and has continued to grow the TAM program. Nicolette has shown students how to embrace life and explore their passions, inspiring others through her decision to come back to school and teach after achieving success in the industry. I am so thankful to have had Nicolette by my side at Mizzou. I’m eternally grateful for how she has impacted my life.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I have had countless amazing Mizzou experiences, so it is difficult to choose. I have been involved in the Association of Textile and Apparel Management since the day I arrived at Mizzou. I started as a member, before being elected secretary and president. During my freshman year, there were few members due to the effects of COVID-19 but we have rebuilt and are stronger than ever as we achieve our mission to provide aspiring retail professionals with career-building opportunities outside the classroom. These experiences have included volunteering at Kansas City Fashion Week, touring corporate campuses, and advocating for sustainable practices within the industry. Advancing this organization is one of my proudest accomplishments and I am so proud of the new leadership that will continue to build upon our growth.

Another great experience has been teaching dance to my peers as a TigerX group fitness instructor at MizzouRec. I teach Tiger Tease which is a class where we focus on bodily autonomy, loving our bodies, and embracing sexuality. This truly is the biggest impact I have made on campus. There is nothing more rewarding than having students come up to me and say how I made them feel beautiful and confident. I’ve even been able to promote this programming by presenting at a collegiate fitness conference.

What is your favorite A&S memory?

It is so difficult to just pick one memory as my time here has been filled with happy memories. During my junior year, my Women’s and Gender Studies class put on a forum discussing the intersectionality of accessibility at Mizzou. We were responsible for everything including budgeting, fundraising, marketing, and research. We discussed how Mizzou's campus was inaccessible at times and pointed out possible solutions. I worked closely with so many different people, all in different places in their lives. At the end of the semester, we were so close and continue to support each other.

What is your best Mizzou experience? 

My involvement in undergraduate research gave me the skills and confidence that I needed to pursue graduate school and the insight that I will carry with me throughout the rest of my career.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

My career path has been forever changed by a chance encounter during an A&S Donuts with the Deans event. I met someone who was majoring in physics with an emphasis in astronomy and I remember thinking, "Wow, that is so cool and I really wish I could do that." I switched my degree plan to physics after that conversation. 

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. Silvia Bompadre, the director of undergraduate studies for the department of physics and astronomy. Dr. Bompadre has been one of my biggest supporters throughout my undergraduate journey. She helped me get involved in undergraduate research, supported my many ideas for the department, and is constantly advocating for me and other undergraduates.

What are your favorite A&S experiences? 

For the past year, I have been lucky enough to be a Peer Navigator in the College of Arts and Science. I have made so many valuable student, faculty, and staff connections. I’ve also conducted undergraduate research in Dr. Timothy Trull's Personality and Emotion Lab where I'm completing my Honors thesis for the Honors capstone.

What are your favorite A&S memories? 

My favorite A&S memories are the puppy playtime events that are held once a semester. We are very lucky to be able to see so many puppies at once! These events have been a huge perk of working as a Peer Navigator.

What are your favorite Mizzou experiences? 

I’ve enjoyed my involvement in Mizzou’s student organizations, Alpha Phi Omega (APO) and Psi Chi/Psychology Club. I’ve served as one of the service vice presidents for APO, a co-ed service fraternity. I’ve presided as service chair for Psi Chi, The International Honors Society in Psychological Sciences. Through my Internship in Psychology course with Dr. Erika Waller, I’ve obtained an internship at a local dance organization where I assist individuals (ages 4 through adult) with various disabilities.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

I’d like to give a shoutout to Dr. Timothy Trull and Tionna Hough, my graduate student mentor in the Personality and Emotion Lab. I'm so thankful to have had their guidance and help with my Honors capstone project and career development. It’s been a challenging but very rewarding process!

What are your best Mizzou experiences?

My best experiences have been from my involvement in TEAM, Transfer Experience and Advising Mentors, and iCOM, the Intercollegiate Communication Organization of Mizzou.

What is our favorite A&S memory? 

I enjoyed participating in the CAFNR/Arts & Science Career and Internship Fair.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My academic advisor Katie Brueggemann was a great resource throughout my time at Mizzou.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

The Arts, Social Sciences, or Humanities Scholars Project and MizzouForward research initiative gave me the opportunity to think like a researcher and cemented my desire to make research a career.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

I enjoyed building a community with my peers in the Language and Linguistics Club.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Associate Professor Rebecca Grollemund has always believed in me and made a difference during my studies.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I traveled the world with Study Abroad and taught youth in the College of Education’s Adventure Club for four years. These experiences helped me grow into the man I was destined to be.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Being a Geography major and getting to experience all the different sides of the world in my classrooms.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. Doug Hurt has taught me in a memorable way.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

One of my most meaningful Mizzou experiences has been creating the Green Chapter Program, a sustainability initiative designed to help the fraternity and sorority life community reduce their environmental footprint while promoting long-term cultural change. What started as an idea rooted in passion quickly evolved into a structured program offering actionable steps and support to chapters interested in becoming more sustainable. Collaborating with campus partners, student leaders, and faculty mentors taught me how to navigate institutional systems, build coalitions, and lead with empathy and strategy. The impact of the Green Chapter Program extended beyond campus when I was recently invited to present my work at Duke University. Sharing my progress and vision with a national student audience – while also learning from other student leaders across the country – was a surreal, full circle moment. It reminded me that meaningful change can start locally but resonate widely. Being able to represent Mizzou at a conference of that caliber was both an honor and a testament to how much support and opportunity this university offers students who want to make a difference.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Being named a Responsibility Royalty recipient is one of my favorite A&S memories. The awards ceremony was especially meaningful because I was able to share the moment with several of my closest friends and family members. Being recognized in such a special way for my academic dedication and hard work was an incredibly proud moment – one that reminded me how far I’ve come and how much support I’ve had along the way.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My academic advisor Kaitlyn Callahan has been an unwavering source of support throughout my time at Mizzou and has truly been a driving force behind my academic journey. No matter how many times I adjusted or added to my initial major, Kaitlyn remained flexible, encouraging, and always willing to work alongside me to ensure I was set up for success. I’m so grateful for her guidance and dedication.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I was involved in the 2023-2024 Arts, Social Sciences, or Humanities Scholars Art of Death team, a humanities research program that utilizes visual arts to explore different facets of death. I am a member of the Center for the Humanities’ Cross-Generational Research Initiative’s Participatory Filmmaking with Refugee and Diverse Youth project. I worked for University Concert Series and as a student assistant in the Digital Initiatives: Digitized Theses and Dissertations project at Ellis Library. I also participated in numerous film sets and projects at Mizzou.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

I enjoyed working with classmates on our Capstone film projects.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. David Schenker and Dr. Nick Potter, two faculty members who I've worked with in my independent studies!

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

My involvement in the Missouri Students Association has provided countless memories and skills that will help me thrive in the post-graduate world. I've learned how to network, engage with administrators, and advocate for the student body during meetings with a close-knit group of individuals or full senates.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

I studied Iceland’s urban life and culture during my study abroad experience. This trip gave me so much insight into life in Iceland, but my favorite part was exploring the country and forming friendships with students who had vastly different backgrounds.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My supervisor Patty Eggleston supported me in every way during my employment with the department of history these past four years. When I went through hard times, Patty was right there with a hug and a smile. She has been a crucial part of my experience here at Mizzou. I believe Patty embodies the pillars of Mizzou, especially respect and excellence.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

One of my best Mizzou experiences has been as the chair of community and belonging programming for the Campus Activities Programming Board. Leading a team and collaborating with campus partners has allowed me to develop strong leadership and project management skills, ensuring that every event is engaging, meaningful, and accessible to all students. I have been able to make a tangible impact by creating spaces for cultural expression, dialogue, and celebration. I explored social justice and narratives during a study abroad experience in Costa Rica. I’ve been able to apply these explorations of different cultures to my work in social justice and impact.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

The first time I truly felt engaged in a class was during the Program Assessment and Improvement course. It is the class that solidified for me that I wanted to pursue my MPA. Now I am in the accelerated master’s degree program!

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My academic advisor Sarah Kammeyer’s demonstration of a caring attitude toward me is evident in every interaction. She goes above and beyond to ensure that I feel supported and valued, taking the time to listen to my concerns, aspirations, and challenges. Her genuine empathy and compassion create an environment where I feel genuinely and wholeheartedly comfortable seeking guidance and support. One of Sarah's most remarkable attributes is her mastery of institutional regulations, policies, and procedures. She navigates the complexities of academic requirements with ease, offering clear and concise explanations to me while ensuring I stay on track toward my academic and life goals. Sarah's proficiency in this area not only facilitates smooth academic transitions but also empowers me to make informed decisions about my educational journey. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact Sarah has had on my life. Her dedication to my success is truly commendable and I am eternally grateful. When I walk at graduation it is Sarah that I will have to thank!

What are your favorite A&S experiences? 

I’ve performed with amazing musicians as a member of different music ensembles, including as a violinist with the University Philharmonic Orchestra and a singer with Show-Me Opera. I performed Handel's opera Ariodante as concertmaster of the University Philharmonic Orchestra and as an understudy for the role of Dalinda. Living and rehearsing in both the orchestra world and opera world at the same time was incredibly fun and taught me so much!

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Professor Eva Szekely and my former voice teacher Professor Christine Seitz have been instrumental in shaping me into the musician and person I am. I do not know where I'd be without their influence.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

I was invited to participate in the fall 2024 Undergraduate Cap Reading organized by Teaching Professor Scott Garson. During weekly meetings, I practiced reading my creative nonfiction with three other student writers and Garson, culminating with reading our work in front of an audience in November. This was something that seemed so out of my comfort zone at the beginning of the semester, but I ended up loving it. Practicing with the other students made the experience so much fun and created an environment where we were excited to hear each other’s writing. I can't wait to see how their writing develops in the future!

What is your best Mizzou experience? 

Working for the Mizzou Writing Center was the best choice I made during my undergraduate studies. I met so many wonderful people and worked with students from a variety of majors. Working as a tutor solidified my passion to work with other people on their writing projects. I will forever be grateful for the positive environment created by Dr. Aaron Harms and Dr. Bailey Boyd.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. Donald Quist has been an incredible mentor and thesis advisor. He helped me to build confidence in my writing abilities, helped me through the MFA applications, and supported me through my thesis this past year.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I have had many great and challenging experiences while at Mizzou. I was fortunate enough to join an engineering research lab with Dr. Chi-Ren Shyu. I learned so much in that lab about A.I. and how to make these systems improve people's lives. I also had the opportunity to intern at Amazon Web Services, which pushed me technically and broadened what I believed possible to do with my major. As a resident advisor, my residents constantly challenge me and my assumptions about the world. I hope I have done the same for them. I am also a part of the National Society of Black Engineers chapter on campus; this group of individuals is an inspiration to me, and, thanks to them, I am trying to raise the bar while leaving a pathway for those behind me.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Taking an existentialism class with my friend Ada. She would always push back on what the philosophers were saying, and I bought what they were saying hook, line, and sinker. It was a fun experience.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

My academic advisor Kibby Smith and Assistant Professor Marta Heckel. Miss Smith helped me navigate graduating with a philosophy degree in addition to computer science. This wasn't easy to do but she never gave on up on seeing me through even though there were times I considered switching to the minor. I enjoyed Dr. Heckel's classes which were taught very well and where my philosophical questions were always entertained.

What are your favorite A&S memories? 

As a peer advisor for biological sciences, I collaborated with other peer advisors and professional advisors in assisting freshmen – students who were in the same position I was just a few years ago – to do their best.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

My best experiences have stemmed from my involvement in acts of service, including serving as a Welcome Week leader, being involved in Mizzou outreach efforts, and assisting with MizzouThon, the largest student-run philanthropy at the University of Missouri. Picking up a hospital job as a phlebotomist and seeing the immediate effect of my personality, while enhancing the patient experience has been rewarding! Last, but not least, kicking a ball around during intramural soccer on Stankowski Field, or being in MizzouRec and meeting with Mizzou Strength Club members while moving heavy weights around have led to lifelong friendships. My experience here at Mizzou has been amazing!

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. Ellen Moore’s dedication to teaching and student learning as well as approachability outside the classroom is none like any other professor I have come across. She is genuinely the best. I’d also like to give a shoutout to Jordan Parshall, an academic advisor.

What are your favorite A&S experiences? 

One of my most memorable experiences was traveling with Marching Mizzou to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Exploring New York City with my friends and representing the university on a national stage was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’ll never forget. Another highlight was having multiple opportunities to conduct Mizzou’s Horn Choir in a performance, moments that instilled in me the confidence to seek additional conducting opportunities. Taking private lessons with Dr. Brian Silvey, Dr. Christian Noon, and Assistant Professor Amanda Collins was incredible. Their mentorship shaped me into the musician I am today and the future teacher I hope to be. I’m grateful for their guidance, encouragement, and high standards.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

Throughout my time at Mizzou, I’ve been lucky to take on several leadership roles, including serving as president of NAfME-C and the Zeta Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. These roles allowed me to collaborate with passionate, dedicated individuals and form lasting friendships that I truly cherish. I learned how to advocate for others and create meaningful, supportive relationships.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Curators’ Distinguished Teaching Professor Wendy Sims has been an incredible mentor. I’ve had the opportunity to learn from her in Music Education Orientation, as well as Teaching Music I and II. As the faculty advisor for NAfME-C, she’s also been instrumental in helping me keep our chapter active and engaged.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Living and interning in Washington, D.C., during my time in the Kinder Scholars D.C. Summer Program was outstanding. I learned so much from my internship and our course curriculum that it has motivated me to work towards making it back to D.C. again!

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I've had so many wonderful Mizzou experiences; it's difficult to choose just a few! My time working for the MU Writing Center has been wonderful, and I have greatly enjoyed helping students improve their writing and grow in confidence as writers. I've also loved being a member and captain of the Mizzou Mock Trial Association for the past four years. This club allowed me to develop my public speaking and argumentative skills while also building lasting friendships with my teammates.

The Constitutional Litigation course taught by Associate Professor of Law Haley Proctor introduced me to methods of constitutional interpretation which became my area of interest and inspired me to study constitutional law in law school. This class was full of exceptional opportunities and had a significant impact on my future in the legal field.

Who has made a difference in your time at Mizzou? 

Kinder Institute Distinguished Faculty Fellow Alan Gibson has been a consistent advocate for me throughout my undergraduate career. He completed an independent study with me on a topic that I am particularly interested in because he knew I would enjoy it. He is invested in my success and has consistently supported me, offered advice, and encouraged me to pursue my goals.

What are your best Mizzou experiences?

My best experiences come from my mentor-guided independent studies in philosophy and psychological sciences. I've been involved in insightful research opportunities including the Undergraduate Research Program for Psychology Majors, McNair Scholars Program, Cherng Summer Scholars program, MizzouForward Undergraduate Research Training Grant, and Honors capstone. These experiences deepened my understanding of the research process, sparked a strong passion for academic inquiry, and gave me opportunities to present my work at various academic conferences. I also enjoyed pursuing the philosophy honors thesis, as it gave me the opportunity to explore philosophical topic outside of those offered in the standard coursework. This independence paired with continued mentorship made it a truly meaningful and fulfilling part of my undergraduate experience. I also enjoyed serving on the executive board for philosophy and psychological sciences throughout the years. These opportunities provided me with wonderful undergraduate experiences, prepared me for graduate-level research, and clarified my long-term career goals.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

I enjoyed attending the 2024 and 2025 Midwestern Psychological Association conferences in Chicago where I had the opportunity to explore research projects and careers, while networking with peers. It was a wonderful and enriching experience.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Dr. Nicole Campione-Barr and Dr. Philip Robbins have encouraged me every step of the way in my research project and endeavors. I owe much of my academic and personal growth to them. I also want to give a shoutout to Dr. Marta Heckel who sparked a vast interest for philosophy within me. Their support and thoughtful mentorship have shaped my academic path in countless meaningful ways.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

My best experiences at Mizzou have been the plethora of research experiences, whether presenting research about minority-focused news sites at the National Communication Association Conference the past two years, performing content analysis of Canadian Cannamom blogs as part of a Fulbright Canada-Mitacs Globalink research internship, or publishing research on the “Associations between news coverage, social media discussions, and search trends about celebrity deaths, screening, and other colorectal cancer-related events” in the journal of Preventive Medicine. My time at Mizzou helped me to realize my passion for research and my goal of continuing research in graduate school.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Researching marginalized identity representation during my involvement in the Arts, Social Sciences or Humanities (ASH) Scholars project. Whether it was getting to know each member of the lab and watching them grow as researchers, passing on the knowledge I had gained over my four years as part of the team to younger members, or talking with Dr. Christopher Josey and Dr. Julius Riles, the weekly ASH Scholars meeting was always the highlight of my week.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

Throughout my college experience no one has had a greater impact on helping me realize my passion for research than Dr. Christopher Josey. I hope that graduate school will prepare me to one day be even half the researcher, mentor, and professor that he is.

What are your favorite A&S memories? 

I enjoyed performing during my first concert with the University Singers, giving piano recitals, traveling to London and New York City with the MU Concert Chorale, and hanging out with the math club.

What is your best Mizzou experience? 

My favorite experience was studying math at St Catherine's College Oxford during my senior year. I also enjoyed being involved with the Christian Campus House and Columbia Restoration Branch: Church of Jesus Christ.

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

I’d like to recognize Dr. Natalia Bolshakova and Dr. Rachel AuBuchon for their accompaniment and teaching. They are amazing pianists. I’d also like to give a shoutout to Lucy Urlacher, the School of Music piano tuner technician, for her encouragement and dedication to music and the pianos.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I worked at KOMU and as a journalism ambassador. I participated in a Study Abroad program in Brussels, Belgium. I’ve served as historian and recruitment co-chair of the Little Sisters of the Gold Rose, a non-Greek Service sorority.

What is your favorite A&S experience? 

I enjoyed my Intro to Transgender Studies class. We had a lot of great discussions in the class based on current events and assigned readings. I learned a lot in the class about Trans history and different theories of gender which was cool!

Who has made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

I have taken several classes with Dr. Emmett Harsin Drager and have felt very supported as a student and a person. They really care about the work they're doing and the students in their classes.

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

I’ve enjoyed immersing myself in topics I love from experts in the respective fields. My experience while pursuing my bachelor’s degree has been invaluable to my development as a person. Getting involved in undergraduate research with the Contributing to Vital Research in African Linguistics team, completing my undergraduate honors thesis in philosophy, and studying and practicing photography as an artistic medium are also favorite experiences.

What is your favorite A&S memory? 

Translating Old English poetry from source material.

What are your favorite A&S memories? 

I will cherish my memories in the MU Concert Chorale and University Singers, especially our performances in New York City and London. The experience of being a double major with two very different majors (biology and music) will be unforgettable. Many of my days were spent going from a difficult chemistry class to a practice room for an hour, and while it was a lot of work, it was also a lot of fun!

What are your best Mizzou experiences? 

Being involved in campus organizations, getting tapped into Omicron Delta Kappa, serving as vice president of finance for Phi Delta Epsilon, being inducted into Phi Beta Kappa as a junior, and being a member of Kappa Alpha Theta. I also enjoyed being involved in biochemistry research and presenting a music research project at Show Me Research Week. I have had a fulfilling experience volunteering with Global Tigers Connect and at the Harry S. Truman Memorial Veterans' Hospital. I had a memorable time studying abroad in Copenhagen for three weeks over the summer!

Who made a difference during your time at Mizzou? 

I would like to give a shoutout to my piano instructor, Dr. Natalia Bolshakova. She helped me become a better pianist and has been one of my greatest supporters during my undergraduate education.