Kansas State University

Why I chose K-State
Since childhood, my family had me outfitted in all K-State clothing, so you could say I was brainwashed from birth! Actually, growing up near Manhattan allowed me to participate in conferences and school events on campus, so it just felt like the right place for me.

How I knew K-State was right for me
When I visited campus, I got to talk with a music professor who told me I could participate in a vocal group, even if I wasn't planning to major in music. Music was a big part of my high school experience and I wanted to continue with it in college.

The coolest person I met at K-State
I got to meet the first woman senator of Kansas, Nancy Landon Kassebaum, when I was working as a reporter for a radio station. It was so amazing to be in the presence of such a powerful woman. I also met Faith Hill when she was just a rising star on the country music scene.

Advice I'd give my freshman-year self
Don't be afraid to walk around that first day with your map! I thought I'd be cool and look like I knew everything, but ended up going to the wrong building because I didn't memorize my map well enough. It was so embarrassing showing up late to class.

How does K-State add to the value of higher education?
Getting a college education is the best investment you can make for yourself. No one can take it away. Employers recognize K-State and desire the work ethic that comes with a Midwest education.

How I picked my major
I loved English and public speaking activities in high school, so being a broadcaster sounded like a fun and glamorous job. Through the advice of my advisor, I also double majored in public relations, so if NBC or CNN didn't work out, I'd have that to fall back on. Having the flexibility in my majors allowed me to look at other avenues, which led me to where I am today.

How to be a successful freshman
I was so afraid to ask for help my freshman year because I didn't want to appear stupid. Luckily, I got up the nerve to talk to my philosophy professor after failing two papers. He met with me each week to go over the readings and helped me understand the concepts before writing my papers. Without asking for help, I am sure I would have failed the entire class.

A must-do Manhattan tip
Take a study break and go to Pillsbury Crossing to swim or wade in the water on an unusually warm spring day!

How K-State has changed me as a professional
As a graduate of the electronic journalism program, I wanted to be the next Katie Couric or Diane Sawyer, but when I took the admissions representative job at K-State Salina, I found a new passion that was much more personal and rewarding than news reporting. Working with college students and helping them make one of the most pivotal decisions of their lives is a great career.