- Pronouns:
- they/them
- Major:
- Elementary Education
- Minor/Concentration:
- Social Studies
- Graduation year:
- 2025
- Hometown:
- New Castle, IN
- Interests/hobbies:
- Community Involvement, Quality Time with Friends, Music Performance; Scrapbooking, Reading, Hammocking, and Supporting the Arts!
Q&A with SJ
How has INSPIRE or the School of Education helped you grow as a future teacher?
It is so helpful to be surrounded by people that are taking similar classes and to have that support network. The INSPIRE seminar also helped me get more connected with opportunities through the School of Education.
What has been your favorite experience as a member of the INSPIRE LLC so far?
I loved being a member of the INSPIRE Council and getting to plan and participate in Halloweek together, which included movie nights, pumpkin patch trips, floor and door decorating, and a Halloween party!
What influenced your decision to become a Peer Mentor?
I felt very compelled to help out the freshman and first-year INSPIRE students because the former peer mentors really supported me last year.
It is so helpful to be surrounded by people that are taking similar classes and to have that support network. The INSPIRE seminar also helped me get more connected with opportunities through the School of Education.
What are some responsibilities you have as a Peer Mentor?
During Welcome Week, I was responsible for making the floor and IU campus feel like home for the new students. I got the comment that it felt like a week at camp, and the peer mentors were like camp counselors. Now, I get to be a friendly face in the hallways; I get to meet once a week to discuss what’s happening on the floor with other peer mentors and Dr. Cierniak; I get to give advice using my prior experience; and I get to continue to grow as a future teacher through this amazing program.
Do you have any advice for anyone who might be thinking about applying to INSPIRE?
I encourage you to take a tour of the floor before committing! We have awesome guided tours with Dr. Cierniak, current peer mentors, future peer mentors, and members of INSPIRE Council. LLC life isn’t for everyone, but it may be for you!
What would you say to someone considering joining INSPIRE?
I would say that it’s an awesome opportunity to really have a solid foundation for both your later years in college and for your future career as a teacher. Definitely apply, even if you decide on something different!