Where are you from?
I was born on the reservation in Hardin/Crow Agency, Montana (Aspalooke’/Crow native), but I grew up in Colorado. On August 10, 2010, I moved to Washington State, where I have lived ever since. Washington has become home to me, and Grays Harbor College has played a huge role in my educational journey and personal growth.
What is your major, and what led you to choose it?
My original major was nursing because I wanted to help people and make a difference in their lives. However, about a year ago, I was hit by a car and that experience changed my life in ways I never expected. After the accident, I realized that I could no longer handle the sight of blood, which made pursuing nursing difficult for me. Instead of giving up on my goals, I decided to pursue Organizational Management, with a focus on leadership. I am currently working toward my bachelor’s degree, and one of my biggest goals is to help bring a Boys & Girls Club to the Aberdeen area. I chose this major because I know the leadership, management and organizational skills I gain will help me turn that vision into reality and create a safe and supportive place for children in our community.
What has been your favorite class so far, and why?
My favorite class so far has been chemistry because of my instructor Daniel Nogales. I used to hate chemistry, but he helped me not only understand and retain the information but also fall in love with the subject again. He made a difference in how I viewed the class and I appreciate the impact he had on my learning experience.
What hobbies, interests, or personal pastimes are you involved in?
Outside of school, work and my leadership responsibilities I enjoy spending time with my dogs and hanging out with my friends. I also love decorating and having arts and crafts time. I enjoy being creative and finding little things that bring me happiness. Between school, work, student leadership and working toward bringing a Boys & Girls Club to the community, I stay pretty busy. But these things are all important to me.
What’s something people are often surprised to learn about you?
Something people are often surprised to learn about me is that I was hit by a car and still managed to finish that same academic quarter while undergoing surgery and recovering from my injuries. It was one of the most challenging experiences of my life. But I refused to let it take away my education or the goals I had worked so hard for. There were difficult days but I kept pushing forward. That experience showed me just how strong and determined I could be, even when life took an unexpected turn.
What advice would you give to future students?
My advice to future students is to never give up on yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, use the resources available to you or change your path if you discover something new about yourself. College can be challenging, but you don’t have to figure everything out alone. Your journey doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Keep showing up for yourself, even on the hard days, and remember that setbacks do not mean you have failed. Sometimes life takes you in a different direction, and that direction can lead you to something even more meaningful than you originally imagined.
Is there anyone you would like to recognize for supporting your educational journey?
Someone I would like to recognize for supporting my educational journey is Shelly Hoffmann. She has helped me make it through so much, especially during some of the most difficult moments of my life. Her support and encouragement have meant more to me than words can fully explain. She has also given me someone to look up to and an example of the kind of person and leader I hope to become. Having someone who believes in you and inspires you to keep going can make such a difference, and I am incredibly grateful for the role she has played in my journey.
What is your favorite movie, artist, or type of music?
My favorite music changes all the time, depending on my mood, but right now I really enjoy Christian music that uplifts me, encourages me, and reminds me of positive affirmations. My favorite artist is Blu Monroe. I also absolutely love anime! I enjoy having different interests that let me relax, connect with stories and express different sides of my personality.
What is your favorite season, and why?
My favorite season is fall because I love the combination of warm and cool weather, all the beautiful colors of the changing leaves and of course, the sound of leaves crunching under my feet. There is something about fall that feels comforting and peaceful to me. I love the colors and the atmosphere, and it is one of my favorite times of the year.
What extracurricular activities are you involved in?
At Grays Harbor College, I am involved in Associated Student Government, where I serve as Executive Vice President and Phi Theta Kappa. I value being involved because it gives me opportunities to advocate for students, develop my leadership skills, and help make a difference on campus. Outside of those organizations, working toward bringing a Boys & Girls Club to our community takes up a significant amount of my time. This project is especially meaningful to me because I want children to have a safe place where they can feel supported, build relationships, and have opportunities to grow. For me, leadership is about more than holding a position or having a title. It is about showing up for others, creating opportunities, and helping make a positive difference in people’s lives.