Pearl and I have known each other since high school when we met through show choir. She is such an awesome, kind, hilarious person and is always a blast to be around. I had so much fun getting the chance to interview her!
Hometown: I moved around a lot, but the place I’ve lived the longest is West Des Moines.
Year in College: Freshman
Major: Currently I’m double majoring in English and Social Work with a minor in Sociology. And I’m considering getting a certificate in Social Understanding.
What made you decide your majors?
I chose English because I’ve always loved reading and writing, and it’s a thing that I’m good at. For a long time, I thought I wanted to be a teacher because I want to help kids as they become adults and help them become the best people they can be. But I don’t like grading papers and I didn’t know what I would teach other than English. The reason I wanted to teach in the first place was to help kids become good people as they grow up and I think a lot of kids get that support but the kids that don’t are underrepresented and expected to fail. So a lot of those kids fall into foster care, so I thought what a better way to help them than to get involved in foster care. I also grew up across a street from a foster home and saw the positive impact it had on their lives.
What is your favorite thing about Iowa City?
I really like all the people and that you can walk down the same road at the same time of day and see a new person no matter what.
Favorite place in the whole world: That’s hard because I could be in a really bad place, but if I had my sister and my friends with me I would still be happy. But if I was on a beach that would be an added bonus.
Favorite hidden gem in Iowa City: It’s not really hidden but right behind Halsey Hall there’s a place called the Dancer’s Garden. It has lots of rocks that you can sit on and study, and it’s so warm and sunny. Not a lot of people are there, and you can hear the music coming from the dance studios.
Favorite snack: Pretzel chips
Favorite drink: Cranberry juice
Favorite Musical Groups: Obviously Beyonce and Rihanna. Also I’m really big into Hamilton. I’m really liking Drake’s new album right now.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I hang out with my friends and study, usually at the same time. I also like to take as many naps as possible.
Favorite University of Iowa Class: Right now I’m in Social Justice and Social Welfare, and it’s so interesting, I love it. I also really liked my sociology class last semester, and that’s what convinced me to add a Sociology minor.
Favorite University of Iowa Professor: I’ve had a lot of great professors so far, and I sincerely admire any one that has enough education and expertise on a subject to teach about it.
What is the biggest piece of advice you would give to college students?
Managing your time is really important and scheduling out and prioritizing when things need to get done. Also don’t pull all nighters, you won’t produce the same work you could have if you had slept at least five hours.
Thanks Pearl, you rock!