Hello Eagles!

Since this will be my last column as your 2025-2026 Student Trustee, I want to say thank you. To all of the students I met in my past two years at IVCC, my journey has been shaped by you. Each individual encouraged me to see different perspectives.

I would also like to thank Dr. Tracy Morris and the Board of Trustees for the guidance they provided me this past year while serving the student body alongside them.

I was recently given the opportunity to travel to Baltimore, Maryland, and Seattle, Washington, where I was recognized for my Phi Theta Kappa scholarships.

There, I met students from across the country who shared my values and had the chance to connect with professionals in my field of study.

I never would have imagined being in the position I am today, and I owe so much of that to getting involved.

My willingness to step out of my comfort zone built the foundation for my success at IVCC. As a freshman, I felt just as lost as anyone else—I struggled to find my English classroom in the maze of IVCC hallways, let alone decide on a major.

But I started putting myself out there, challenging myself to talk to at least one new person each day.

Through building relationships with professors and meeting new friends, I gained the confidence to join clubs and run for leadership positions. By the end of my first year, I had even decided to study abroad, bringing me closer to my future path.

It can be as simple as smiling at someone random in the hallways; stopping for a game of ping pong in the life space; or chatting up your professors during their office hours.

I know everyone hears the same advice: “Get involved, join clubs.” But I can promise anyone—if you truly commit, apply yourself, and challenge yourself to grow, the opportunities are endless.