- Major:
- K-12 Spanish Education
- Minor/Concentration:
- License Addition in ENL
- Graduation year:
- 2026
- Hometown:
- Freedom, IN
- Interests/hobbies:
- IU Women’s Basketball, music (playing/listening), spending time with friends
Q&A
How has INSPIRE and/or the School of Education helped you grow as a future teacher?
INSPIRE has helped me network with other future educators who feel as passionate as I do about the field of education. It has also made me feel like I am part of a close-knit community on campus. The School of Education has incredible faculty/staff that support student success. Resources like Career Connections and the countless workshop opportunities are great ways to develop your teacher identity before graduation.
What has been your favorite experience as a member of the INSPIRE LLC so far?
My favorite experiences have been our cultural excursions. The excursions are great ways to branch out of your comfort zone and view different perspectives through a teaching context. Some excursions that stood out for me were at La Casa Latino Cultural Center, the Islamic Center of Bloomington, and IU traditional Powwow.
What influenced your decision to become a Peer Mentor?
I decided to become a Peer Mentor so I could help the incoming members of INSPIRE feel like they have a support system on campus. If I can enhance new students’ experiences by sharing my own, then I am more than happy to help!
My experience has helped me to grow as a person in many ways. I cannot say enough how fundamental INSPIRE has been to my IU experience. Joining INSPIRE is a great choice to make!
What are some of the responsibilities you have as a Peer Mentor?
The basic responsibilities I have as a peer mentor are to host a cultural excursion and fireside chat each semester, be present on the floor, and plan welcome week events. However, I believe a bigger impact is possible when you expand your responsibilities to being a role model who is there to support INSPIRE members. The first year(s) of college can be difficult, so I believe part of the Peer Mentor job includes helping our residents feel included and comfortable on our floor.
Do you have any advice for anyone who might be thinking about applying to INSPIRE?
If you are nervous about finding a community on a campus as big as IU and you want an opportunity to learn about new perspectives and cultures, INSPIRE is a perfect place! You will make lifelong friends here! INSPIRE is designed to provide support and help you get the most out of your experience at IU. I promise you will not regret the decision!
What would you say to someone considering joining INSPIRE?
In many ways, choosing INSPIRE is a choice to invest in your future. You will learn things throughout the year in this community that will change the way you teach your future students. The IU School of Education is the best in the state, and joining INSPIRE only reinforces that! If you have any questions, please reach out to Dr. Cierniak or current peer mentors!
Anything else you’d like to add about your experience?
My experience has helped me to grow as a person in many ways. I cannot say enough how fundamental INSPIRE has been to my IU experience. Joining INSPIRE is a great choice to make!