Academic Skills Coaching Team

Background: I earned my Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering and worked for a couple of years on construction sites as a geotechnical engineer. I returned to school for my Master's degree in Teaching and served as a high school Math and Engineering teacher for four years. I love that my role at Iowa State allows me to draw on my background to help students have a more successful college experience!

Advice: Find out what a productive study space looks like for you. Then be intentional about creating that space to get yourself in the right mindset for learning and getting schoolwork done.

Classification: Graduate Student

Program: PhD in Social Psychology

Background: B.S. Psychology - Colorado State University

Advice: 

Classification: Junior

Major: Aerospace Engineering 

Minor: Non-Destructive Evaluation

About: I love staying active by playing tennis, whether it’s a competitive match or just hitting for fun. I also enjoy relaxing by watching movies, from classic favorites to new releases. Cooking is another passion of mine—I like experimenting with different cuisines and trying out new recipes. On top of that, I enjoy meeting new people and learning from their experiences, as it’s always exciting to connect and share ideas. 

Advice: I truly believe there is no substitute for hard work. Success doesn’t happen overnight, and there are no miracles or shortcuts. It’s about trusting the process, staying consistent, and pushing yourself to keep growing even when challenges come your way. Keep striving for success, and over time, your effort will pay off.

Classification: Sophomore

Major: Genetics

About Me: I love reading, especially rom-coms! I love relaxing by watching TV or playing games with friends and family, as well as coloring or journaling to decompress. I'm also a Pi Beta Phi on campus! 

Advice: Taking care of yourself is the most important part of being successful!

Classification: Junior

Major: Elementary Education

Identities: First-generation student

Hobby: I love to crochet, watch Netflix (Greys Anatomy or The Sopranos), and work out! I have also started to read while hammocking during my free time. One of my favorite things is spending time with friends and family while playing board games.

Advice: College can be a challenging and humbling experience. Remember that everyone around you is probably going through some of the same struggles, and you are not alone. Don't let your mind become your biggest enemy; remember how hard you worked to get where you are today.

Classification: Junior

Major: Psychology

Minor: Biology

About Me: I enjoy reading, drinking coffee, and spending most of my time with friends. As an international student, I love to travel and explore new places (especially cafes and restaurants). I also love dancing and am a member of a dance club at ISU!

Advice: College can be the best and the worst all in one day, just be nice to yourself through it all. You’re trying your best, just allow yourself room to grow!

Classification: Sophomore

Majors: History, Secondary Education

About: I love to spend time with my friends and family, watch movies and tv shows, listen to music, read, golf and bake! 

Advice: College can be stressful with so much going on, so make sure to prioritize time management so that you won't get too overwhelmed! 

Classification: Junior

Major: Biochemistry

Identities: I am a First Generation and International student

About Me: I love exploring my passions, from serving in my community to having hobbies that keep me creative and active. At Iowa State, I’ve been able to connect service, leadership, and academic growth through various opportunities. I also conduct undergraduate research in the BBMB department. Outside of academics, I enjoy painting, sketching, cooking, running, traveling, and discovering new cute cafés around Ames.

Advice: College is the time to explore and discover more about who you are. At the same time, it’s important to find a balance between academics, activities, and self-care. Don’t be afraid to use the resources available to you. It takes a village to navigate this journey.

Classification: Senior

Major: Biology

Hobbies: I enjoy lifting weights, playing videogames, and reading fantasy and sci-fi books. On the weekends you can find me catching up on my favorite shows and spending time with friends. My latest obsession has been baking sourdough loaves to varying degrees of success.

Advice: Surround yourself with other people that make schoolwork a top priority. Being around other folks that want to do well makes it easier to hold yourself to a high academic standard.

Classification: Junior

Majors: Environmental Science

Minor: Sustainability

Hobbies: I love running, hiking, and being out in nature. I enjoy reading, cooking, and baking, and I’m always experimenting with new recipes. I am a big crystal fan, and love to talk about them. I am always carrying a ‘crystal of the day’ with me for a good luck charm.  Music is a huge part of my life—I play six different instruments and love discovering new sounds and styles. You will find me soaking up the sunshine and ‘grounding’ myself in between classes!

Advice: Find ways to make schoolwork enjoyable and rewarding. Explore new study spots, treat yourself for small wins, and discover little ways to make learning fun. Remember, education is a privilege—so celebrate the journey while you work toward your goals.

Classification: Senior

Major: Community & Regional Planning

Minor: Spanish

About: I am a senior from Kansas City, Missouri, studying Community & Regional Planning with a focus on affordable housing and public policy. I enjoy leadership roles and working in various jobs. In my free time, I enjoy hammocking and dancing.  

Advice: Learn how to effectively manage your time and assignments, get to know your professors, and embrace the idea that learning is a lifelong process. Success comes from authentic interactions and a willingness to continuously grow.