Becca is a senior who is majoring in Psychology and minoring in Coaching.
Why did you choose UMD?
I transferred to UMD after I spent my first year of college at a university in Michigan. I was recruited to play soccer, and specifically decided to stay because everyone I met on my visit was so nice and welcoming. I was really impressed with the academic opportunities that UMD offers and felt that it gave me the best chance to succeed.
The beauty of Duluth also reminded me a lot of my hometown of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin, which is surrounded by Lake Michigan. Many of the boats you see coming through Canal Park were built in my hometown, so I’m reminded of home every time I see one of the boats sailing on Lake Superior.
What do you like most about your programs?
The professors are by far the best part of my programs. I’ve learned from and have been mentored by so many amazing people. They have specifically allowed me to pursue my interest in sport psychology and have guided me through multiple research projects.
Dr. Julie Slowiak and Instructor Keith Young have advised me over the past three semesters and have helped expand my research through an opportunity with UROP. I also serve as a research assistant. Glenn Carlson has also been an instructor who I’ve learned from in the last four years, and has taught me so much.
Every professor that I’ve had at UMD has impacted my life for the better and I’m so appreciative of their dedication towards helping our students succeed.
What has been your most meaningful experience at UMD so far?
In the Fall of 2019, I helped to start the UMD Green Bandana Project, which is a student-athlete led mental health awareness campaign at UMD. Even though we are led by student athletes we reach out to everyone. It has been such an amazing experience to see how our campaign has grown from 5 to 55 student-athletes. It’s even more special to see the impact we have had at UMD and across NCAA platforms throughout the United States. The mentorship I’ve received while creating this campaign from Laura Schnell, our academic advisor, and Karen Stromme, our senior associate athletic director has been knowledge I’ll carry with me long after I graduate.
What advice do you have for incoming students?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. I think in many ways we grow up hearing the phrase “suck it up'' when we are struggling, and the tendency to not admit when you need help can carry into college. There are so many amazing people at UMD who want to help you succeed in whatever avenue of life you are in.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to kayak on the lakes around Duluth and in my hometown; and spend time with family.
Learn more about the Department of Psychology.