Get to know me

Tell us about some of the cultural experiences you had growing up.

Growing up I was always involved in church music, singing and playing trombone in the praise band. My parents took me to several musicals in Des Moines, and I also went to all of the Sonshine Singer ministries. I’m pretty sure I have almost every song memorized! I then went on and have participated in a variety of events, including musicals, plays, speech, band, and choir. 

Do you come from an “arty” family?

I definitely come from an artsy family! My grandma was the director of the Fort Dodge Civic Glee Club for several years before starting Sonshine Singers. She is also the director of our church choir, and plays trumpet in the praise band. My mom both sings and plays the piano, and leads the praise team at our church, First Covenant. Most Sundays we have 3 generations from our family helping with the music! 

What is your earliest memory performing?

My earliest memory performing is singing “One Little Star” as a solo on Christmas Eve at our Church.

What do you most enjoy about performing?

 I most enjoy performing with other people, and the sense of community I feel when we work together to create something beautiful. When I sing or play trombone in church I’m definitely not “performing”, but using my gifts God gave me to help draw people closer to Him. While I’m blessing others with my gift, they are blessing me. 

What are 3 of your proudest moments during high school?

Throughout high school I have been grateful to have had several great opportunities. One proud moment was being accepted into the All-State Choir both my junior and senior years. I was also proud to be one of the valedictorians for my class. Throughout high school, I took advanced courses both at the school and at Iowa Central Community College. Keeping my 4.0 was a lot of hard work, but it paid off! My academic success has also opened more doors for me at the University of Iowa. Of course, my most proud moments were playing tennis for the Dodgers and the Fort Dodge community. I qualified for state, and medaled, all 4 years of my high school career. 

6. You’re stranded on a deserted island. What 3 things do you bring and why?

I would definitely bring snacks because I’m always hungry. I think I would also bring my music playlist to take my mind off being on a deserted island. Lastly, I’d bring my friends. If I’m going to be bored on a deserted island, I’m taking my friends! (I better bring LOTS of snacks!)

What activities/groups/ensembles were you involved with during your senior year?

I was involved in Dodger Senate, National Honor Society, Speech, A Cappella Choir, All-State Choir, FDSH Marching Band, Jazz Band, and Wind Ensemble. I was also involved in the chorus for the FDSH musical, Anastasia. I participated in the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, and was honored to be named to the Homecoming Court. In the community, I was involved in First Covenant Church’s choir and praise band. 

What are your plans for fall?

My plans for this fall are to attend the University of Iowa and major in biomedical science. I also plan to play club tennis, and hopefully sing in a choir. 

Who are some of your role models? Why?

Ryan Madden, Brock Adams, and my dad are some of my role models. These people have great leadership skills show what it means to be a true dodger. 

Tell us one word that you would use to describe yourself.

Focused. 

What advice would you give to an incoming freshmen that is deciding whether or not they want to get involved in activities during high school?

 Don’t be afraid to get involved and try new things! Being a part of a smaller community within the school helps you meet friends that share common interests. Most of my friends have been made or strengthened when I participated in music, sports, or leadership activities. Involvement in multiple different areas of activities will make you a well-rounded individual, and will also make you feel that you are part of a team!