Hometown
Eagle River, WI
Undergraduate education
B.A. in Political Science, certificate in Public Policy
Professional/research interests
AI/Tech and Natural Resource Policy
Accomplishments
Accelerated student
Expected graduation date
May 2026
Why an MPA?
I worked heavily in politics throughout my undergraduate career and quickly realized that my interests were more policy-focused than political. During my junior year of undergraduate study, I applied to the La Follette School’s accelerated program. I felt the 5+1 program was a way to fine-tune my skills while at the same time transitioning from political work to evidence-based policy research to better prepare me for meaningful work in public service.
Assistantship
I am currently the La Follette Outreach Team’s Policy Outreach Project Assistant. Prior to this role, during my first year in the program while completing my B.A., I also served as the Student Content Coordinator for the outreach team. Working with the communications team at La Follette has been a valuable experience that has greatly enhanced my communication skills and strengthened my ability to translate policy into engaging content for broad audiences across multiple platforms.
Mentors
Mindy Walker and Page Bazan on the outreach team have been incredible mentors to me during my time at La Follette. Their guidance strengthened my professional development and deepened my understanding of how policy research is effectively communicated and applied in practice. One of the best decisions I made as a La Follette student was getting to know the Outreach Team and having the opportunity to work and learn alongside them. They are all truly experts in their fields and greatly enhance La Follette’s reach and impact throughout the state of Wisconsin while also providing meaningful support to students.
Advice for prospective La Follette School students
I would highly encourage students to get to know the fantastic La Follette School Outreach Team. They are an incredible and unique resource for a graduate program. The team is here to help you and advance your professional goals, so I encourage you to introduce yourself. They organize amazing events aimed at expanding your professional network, so be sure to read your emails, follow on socials, and check the events page on the La Follette website. The Outreach Team can also connect you with alumni across the country through La Follette’s extensive network of professionals working in a wide range of fields. Outreach is one of the best resources you can tap into during your time at La Follette – don’t miss out!
Before the La Follette School
Before attending La Follette, I attended the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse before transferring to the University of Wisconsin–Madison during my sophomore year to complete my degree in political science. During this time, I served as Vice Chair of College Democrats of Wisconsin for two years, traveling across the state to connect with chapters on college campuses. I also interned with State Senator Brad Pfaff, where I worked in constituent relations.
La Follette School Student Association
I was elected Vice President of the La Follette School Student Association as a first year. It’s a great way to get to know your classmates and be a part of organizing school events.
Anything else?
I love photography and graphic design and was professionally trained in both during my summer internship with the Wisconsin National Guard at the 115th Fighter Wing, in my position as a Public Affairs Specialist.