Why did you choose graduate school at IU Indianapolis?
I chose my masters program at IU Indy based on my undergrad experience at the O'Neil School. I wanted to grow the relationships i established with the professionals in this school and continue to draw from their experience.
What has been your favorite academic accomplishment since you’ve been here?
Learning the details of the relationship that donors and grantees share within the non-profit sector has been a key component of my experience. Developing and writing a grant that paired the Friends of the White River with the Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust allowed me to put these skills into practice.
What do you enjoy most about life in Indianapolis?
The thing that I enjoy most about living in Indianapolis is embracing the Irvington community where I live. Specifically, the Pennsy Trail, which is part of the "rails-to-trails" project adopted by the city, has become a great place to log some miles and meet the folks I consider my neighbors.
Please provide some details about your work/research as a graduate student and/or any activities you are involved in.
As a grad student, continuing to explore the need for a universal curbside recycling program in the city has been a primary focus of my work. Additionally, learning how we can protect watersheds in our State has also been fulfilling pursuit during my graduate studies. Within the last year, my involvement in the Nina Scholars Program has led to a position as a graduate assistant. Incidentally, this is the first time I've been employed since losing my sight about a decade ago.
While pursuing this degree, my involvement with the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind is something I've continued during my studies. I've also participated in several MS Society fundraising events. Finally, I've really enjoyed working as a mentor to blind and sighted students through the Nina Scholars and THRIVE Programs. These are just a few of the experiences that have shown me the importance of serving our community.