Major(s)
Meteorology-Climatology
Year in school
Freshman
Hometown
Elkhorn
Why did you select your major(s) and minor(s)? Were there any events or people that convinced you to declare?
I selected Meteorology as my major because I have loved watching the weather since I was nine. I used to sit on my front porch, watch storms roll in, and go inside when the birds came out. It wasn't until 8th grade that I realized that Meteorology is a career I could pursue and succeed in. From there, I immersed myself in YouTube videos about how weather works, quizlets of Meteorology 100 classes, and just about anything that quenched my thirst for knowledge. My 9th grade Physical Science teacher, Ms. Manhart, took note of my interests and emailed me a link to the UNL Weather Camp. I participated in it after my Freshman year of High School, where I found community with individuals who were just as interested as I was in weather. Since then, Dr. Dewey has invited me back every year to instruct it in some degree.
Who have been some of your strongest mentors or role models here?
My strongest mentor at UNL has been Dr. Ken Dewey. He has provided me with countless opportunities to express my love for meteorology while still in high school. When I assumed the role of Lead Instructor, he ensured that I felt confident teaching students my age in a field where they might know more than I do. He has made Lincoln feel like home and a place of boundless futures, which influenced my decision on which college to attend. It also helped me secure the Presidential Scholarship because I already had many connections to Lincoln through his support and Weather Camp's assistance. I am forever thankful for that.
What are you involved in on campus or in the community?
I am involved with the UNL National Weather Camp. This is a camp where high school students around the country (and world!) can live on campus for a week and learn all about the wonders of the atmosphere. The first year, I attended as a camper, then as an Assistant Instructor for a year, and finally as a Lead Instructor for the last two years. I am responsible for creating the curriculum, schedule, teaching, and fostering connections between peers. I hope to give them the same future and opportunities that Weather Camp has already provided for me.
What are your plans after graduation?
Right now, my plans are relatively fluid. The job market for someone with a Meteorology and Climatology degree is uncertain, so I hope to let the progression of my degree guide me to the job that suits me best. My sole expectation and hope is to work in a position that directly helps people regarding the weather—whether that is with the National Weather Service or at an emergency management office.
