Major: Enterprise Leadership
Hometown: Charles City, Iowa
Hobbies: Daydreaming of life in the Pacific Northwest, binge watching the most emotional episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy” (watch out for season 3 & 6) and planning my next trip home to see my cat
What made you decide to start a blog: I realized I should probably start a blog when I hit the character limit on one of my Instagram posts.
What’s it like living in an apartment as a freshman: Having a kitchen is one of the best things about an apartment. I do not have to worry about the dining hall closing, trying to clean out my ramen bowls in the tiny bathroom sink or walking outside to get to my meals. Cooking is a huge pain, but I have figured out that a meal plan and prepping once a week is the way to go.
I lived in a dorm at the college I transferred from, and while I LOVED my roommate (miss you Samm), I just felt like I would be more successful with space to myself. There are times that I do think I have missed out on a great opportunity to make friends and build a broader support system, but at the end of the day, when I am able to turn off the hall light, close my door, crawl into my full size bed and go to bed insanely early without fear of interruption, I know I made the right decision.
Being a transfer student, how do you like Iowa compared to your old school: I am happy to say that transferring to Iowa was one of the best decisions I have made. Iowa is a challenge. It is a place that I know I am going to grow as an individual. That was an important characteristic of a school that I desired. My coursework is more difficult. The culture of the campus is diverse. There is always something going on and a place for each individual if they make an effort to find it. There are endless opportunities around each corner. I know that if I don’t succeed, it is my own doing instead of the shortcomings of the institution.
What has been your favorite part of going to the University of Iowa: My favorite part of attending the University of Iowa has been getting involved. I joined Students Today, Alumni Tomorrow and interviewed for my current S.T.A.T. Leadership position. It has been great to be an active part of some of the best events happening on campus. Organizations are constantly hosting events. I have been a bit absent about attending them this semester as I transition to Iowa City, but I can’t wait to push myself to branch out and see what is happening on my campus in the future.
What are some tips you have for someone who wants to start a blog?: Start a blog. Write whatever comes to mind and see where it goes. There is the potential for an infinite amount of progress in expanding your technical skills and gaining knowledge about yourself and the world around you, but you have to start.
What is your favorite part of having a blog?: My favorite thing about Hazel Eyed Explorer is building an audience! I am creating a foundation to connect with all types of individuals and tell them that they are not alone in their journey. If my blog touches one life and changes it in a positive way, I have done my job. Inspiration is often a ripple affect.