Extracurricular Activities
High School Varsity Swimming, Klamath Symphony, Church Musician, High School Tennis, VBS Volunteer, Member of Most Excellent Theophilus (a local band)
A Little Bit About Me
I was born and raised in Klamath Falls, and although small towns tend to have less activities or places to go, I have had plenty of adventures and opportunities here! I have been a swimmer my whole life and have been able to travel all over Oregon to compete, including three years of qualifying for the high school state championships. As far as hobbies go, I am passionate about learning new things. I play eight instruments, some of which I play for my church, the Klamath symphony, local bands and programs, as well as on my own for fun. I have also become increasingly interested in aviation, and hope to get my pilot's license once I'm finished with school, and maybe own a Piper J-3 Cub one day. I spend my summers working in a remote Alaskan village at a fly-in lodge near some national parks.
Why I Chose Oregon Tech and My Major
I am studying Dental Hygiene because I am intrigued by science and the way it can be utilized in preventative care. I wanted to pursue a medical field that would allow me to work in a clinical setting where I would have consistent hours and an ability to form a relationship with my patients. I chose OIT because I was born and raised in Klamath Falls and it's important to me to both attend college and work here.
My Influential Professors
I have been taking classes at OIT for three years, and during my first year, I took two classes from Matt Schnackenburg. He was one of the kindest people I have ever met, and incredibly understanding. He listened to any opinions with equal attentiveness regardless of if he agreed, and was encouraging and engaging during class. I have not taken a class from him in two years and he still greets me by name when I see him on campus. Rose McClure is another favorite of mine. In the middle of this term, she had to leave since her mom suddenly died, and despite this she was helpful, caring and empathetic to her students when she came back during midterms.
My Greatest Learning Experience At Oregon Tech
I was homeschooled up until attending OIT, so it was a big adjustment to be in a big classroom surrounded by my peers as well as having multiple different professors with different expectations. It was definitely a learning curve to be expected and encouraged to participate in group activities and interact in class. With the help of my classmates and teachers, I learned how to manage my time and take primary responsibility for my education by choosing to attend class even if it wasn't required and turning in assignments on time.
My Plans After Graduation
I plan on staying local and finding a job at a dental clinic in town. I have grown up here and have a deep love for rural towns and small communities; no matter where I go, I am passionate about serving small towns with my profession. I am also interested in traveling and hope to find opportunities to see different parts of the world while volunteering my skills and knowledge. I would like to spend time gaining flight hours to eventually get my pilot's license so that I can own a small plane like my dad used to.