Hometown/Current Location: Bloomington, IL

What was your overall UIS experience like?

My overall experience at UIS was both energizing and formative. The university offered a close-knit environment that encouraged personal growth, leadership, and community involvement. Academically, UIS taught me how to think critically and adapt quickly—skills that have been invaluable in my career.
Outside the classroom, I was proud to be part of the UIS soccer team for one year, which taught me discipline, teamwork, and resilience. I was also heavily involved in Blue Crew, the spirited student organization that supports athletics and campus events. That involvement gave me a strong sense of connection and pride in the UIS community, and some of my favorite memories come from cheering on our teams and helping build campus spirit.

How did your UIS education prepare you for your career?

My UIS education prepared me for my career by giving me both the technical knowledge and the practical skills to succeed. The smaller class sizes and supportive faculty created an environment where I could ask questions, think critically, and apply concepts directly to real-world situations. UIS emphasized adaptability and problem-solving, which has been invaluable in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and business operations.

Do you have any cool hobbies/side projects you'd like to tell us about?

One of the most exciting side projects I’ve taken on is opening XGolf Springfield with a lifelong friend. It started as a shared passion for golf and entrepreneurship, and evolved into a full-scale indoor golf center that brings people together year-round. Building the business from the ground up has been both challenging and incredibly rewarding.