What did the scholarship allow you to do that you otherwise wouldn’t have done?

The Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship provided me with the opportunity to be able to attend the University of Notre Dame and have countless experiences that I would otherwise never have been able to have. From being able to call multiple Notre Dame football games on the student radio station, to meeting numerous individuals that have had significant impacts on collegiate experience, this scholarship has truly shaped my time in college and my life. 

What makes you proud to be a Hoosier?

I think that there is a certain type of mystique around the state of Indiana that makes me proud to be a Hoosier. While many may only see the state for its cornfields, I see a place that has a deep tradition rooted in each individual community. The hit-sports movie Hoosiers is a perfect example of this community, a place where each member has deep pride in the place they represent. So if there is a word to describe what I love about Indiana, it is community because it encapsulates all the things that make Indiana what it is, from passion to purpose and everything in between. 

Share an example of a time you stepped out of your comfort zone or did something that surprised you.

One time I stepped out of my comfort zone was when I decided to spend the fall semester of my junior year studying abroad in Rome, Italy. Growing up in South Bend, and choosing to go to school at the University of Notre Dame, I have always been someone that likes to stay near places that are familiar with me. When I decided to go abroad I knew this would be a big change, but I also knew that if I didn’t go it would be a decision that I regretted later in my life. Looking back on the experience now, I am extremely thankful that I had the opportunity to experience a new culture for four months and make memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. 

What motivates you?

Something that motivates me is the drive for excellence. In everything that I do, whether it be school, coaching, or journalism I strive to be the very best that I can be because I believe that the work that I produce is a direct reflection of my personal values. I want to make sure that if I am dedicating the time to something that the product that I complete is something that could have the capability to make a difference. For me this also means finding opportunities where I can also learn how to reach the best version of myself, because I believe that everyone is a lifelong learner, and that being able to learn as I pursue excellence is something that motivates me. 

What has been your favorite LSN experience?

My favorite LSN experience has been being able to restart the Notre Dame Lilly Scholars Network with the help of Emily Morales and Maria Emilia Quiroga. Notre Dame has a large cohort of Lilly Scholars and being able to provide them with the club that they deserve has been a tremendous honor and I look forward to seeing how it continues to grow over the next few years.