I am a dedicated student-athlete and community volunteer with a strong passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Growing up with an autistic little sister, I learned early on the importance of patience, empathy, and understanding. Supporting her through daily challenges has given me a personal perspective on how care, encouragement, and advocacy can help a child feel confident and capable. Watching her grow and learn in her own way has shown me that small acts of guidance and support can make a lasting difference. These experiences have inspired me to devote my time and energy to helping others and have shaped my career goals. These lessons led me to get involved with organizations like Big Brothers Big Sisters, where I mentored two autistic children, and FISH, where I help children with disabilities feel included while fishing. One moment that stands out from Big Brothers Big Sisters was when one of the girls I mentored told me that she felt safe and seen with me. I remember sitting with her, listening to her thoughts and fears, and encouraging her in small ways that built her confidence. Hearing her say that she felt understood reminded me why this work matters. The trust, support, and presence I offer can help a child feel valued and understood in ways that last far beyond our time together. Through these experiences, I have learned that making a meaningful impact comes from listening, encouraging, and empowering others to believe in themselves. In my professional journey, I plan to become a physical therapist specializing in children with disabilities. I want to help children perform essential tasks, such as walking, gaining independence, and building confidence in their abilities. I hope to make a positive social impact by combining therapeutic care with mentorship, guiding children to reach their full potential, and supporting families as they navigate challenges. I also hope to take on leadership roles where I can mentor others, share best practices, and help develop programs that create opportunities for children to grow and succeed. Physical therapy matters to me personally because I know the difference it can make in a child’s life, giving them not just mobility, but confidence, independence, and hope. Ultimately, I want to be more than a caregiver. I want to be an advocate and champion for children with disabilities, helping them feel valued, supported, and inspired. By drawing on my experiences with my sister, my volunteer work, and my training, I hope to make a lasting difference in the lives of those I serve, fostering independence, confidence, and joy in their daily lives.

Rugby family means so much to me. Growing up in a split family, I learned early on that blood isn’t what makes a family, it’s the heart. My team at UW-Eau Claire has shown me over and over what real family looks like. From the moment I walked onto the pitch as a nervous freshman, unsure of what I was doing, I was met with encouragement, support, and acceptance. That instant feeling of belonging gave me confidence I hadn’t felt in any other sport or setting. In high school, I played a few sports, but I never felt the same passion, connection, and loyalty I have with these girls. Even when we face other teams, we play with respect and sportsmanship, showing that competition does not have to come at the expense of friendship. Rugby has taught me patience, resilience, and how to trust and communicate under pressure. These are lessons I carry beyond the field. One example of family on the rugby team for me happened last semester. My mom faced a dangerous brain tumor, and I had to go home to support her through surgery and recovery. I was scared not just about her health, but about falling behind in school and losing my starting spot. My coaches and teammates immediately reassured me and kept me involved, checking in constantly even after I returned. Experiencing their care reminded me how meaningful it is to have a family who genuinely supports each other, no matter the circumstances. Part of what makes rugby special is the tradition of adopting a rookie. When I first started, I was adopted by an upperclassman who guided me, answered my questions, and helped me adjust to the team. Now I get to pass that on to new players, helping them feel at home and supported just as I was. Moments like this make me proud to be part of a team where mentorship, trust, and care are central to who we are. I also love how rugby has pushed me to grow. I started as a scared freshman who barely knew the rules, and within a year, I earned a spot on the starting lineup, competing at the national level and helping our team take second in the nation. The pride I feel does not just come from the results. It comes from the effort, teamwork, and support that made it possible. Looking ahead, I hope to continue growing as a player and take on a leadership role within the team. I want to guide and inspire newer players, support them on and off the field, and help foster the same tight-knit culture that has shaped me. More than anything, I want to keep contributing to a team where every player feels valued, encouraged, and part of a family. Rugby has given me more than just a sport. It has given me a home, a sense of purpose, and a family I can rely on no matter what. The lessons I’ve learned, the friendships I’ve built, and the experiences I’ve had will continue to shape me, and I hope to honor my rugby family every time I step on the field.