Impactful Faculty Member
Oddly enough, I did not come to Mount with my mind set on a specific area of study, initially unsure about what I wanted to pursue. But during preview I met who is now my advisor, Dr. Grossman at the career fair. I saw the logos of multiple three letter agencies like the FBI and CIA on one of the tables set up in the MAAC which sparked my interest. After having a conversation with Dr. Grossman, his advice and explanation of the national security program influenced me to major in national security. Since then, I have never looked back. Dr. Grossman has led some of my favorite classes here at Mount and is an amazing professor. He fosters a fun and engaging learning environment and really brings out the best of his students. I was rather reserved and quiet when I first started here, but he truly brought me out of shell shaping me into the student I am today. He also is the reason that I chose to do an internship with the U.S Marshals service and I am so glad he recommended to me.
Overcoming Obstacles
Last year in September, I lost my dad to ALS. It was an incredibly hard journey for my father and my family, with the nature of the disease being small cuts over time. Seeing him degrade during his fight with ALS was truly heartbreaking, and it was difficult to stay positive during that time. Out of my siblings, I was the closest with my dad. We spent so much time together being in the outdoors, fishing, hiking, boating, canoeing. And we had extensive plans to someday travel out west and fly fish in the mountains, that was a dream we both shared. Although tragic and still sticking with me to this day, that experience has made me a much stronger more resilient person. Pushing me to live life to the fullest, make the most out of my opportunities, and work as hard as I can.
Why Mount Union?
Initially I chose Mount Union to continue my career in football, drawn by the prestigious athletic program they had built and continue to uphold. After only playing one season, I still chose to stay at Mount because the education was phenomenal and I fell in love with the close-knit community aspect of the school. Mount Union is also only an hour and a half from my hometown, it is practical and easy to go home and because of the proximity my family visits me often. I have also built countless friendships that began immediately upon my arrival here, and that I know will last a lifetime. Additionally, I actually feel like my success is valued here and I do not feel like a number which can be common at other big state schools. Because of the size of the university, my professors and advisors are able to give me care and attention that otherwise would not be possible in a larger setting. That care and attention have made my learning and education top notch.