As their time in high school comes to a close, college decisions are taking over the minds of most Seniors. Whether they will be attending a four-year university, community college, or entering the workforce, everyone has a unique path suited for them. Two seniors here at Rocky will be attending the same university after graduation, but they each have their own steps to getting there.
Senior Teegan Conwell is one student headed off to the University of Iowa next fall. “I am majoring in biology on a pre-med track. The opportunities they have for pre-med students are great. They have an amazing hospital and resources,” shared Conwell. “I wanted to get out of the QC to gain more independence and experience living in a new city.” The typical “College Experience” is a must for many. Sporting events, clubs, and campus life are what many incoming freshmen look forward to the most. Conwell states, “I am super excited to experience the full college experience, especially because Iowa has great sports games I can attend, and so many clubs and organizations.” With over 30,000 students currently enrolled, the University of Iowa is a major institution. “A big school was better for me because I love to get out and socialize. I hope to gain connections and opportunities that will help with my applications for medical school,” said Conwell.
However, not all seniors jump straight into a large school environment. Fellow Senior, Allie Downing intends to become a future Hawkeye, but plans to spend her first two years at community college. “I plan to attend Blackhawk College so I can get my basic classes done for free through a scholarship before attending the University of Iowa to major in political science and law,” shared Downing. “I want to stay home for a couple years because, honestly, I have a lot to learn before being on my own,” she stated. Staying close to home holds many benefitsm, including lower costs and less time commitment. “Outside of Blackhawk, I will continue working, reading, and crafting. I don’t really care for the college experience. I like to stay in,” said Downing. She hopes to learn not strictly inside the classroom. Downing shares, “I hope to gain more knowledge about the real world while staying here for a couple years.”
Graduation day is near, and the next step for seniors is approaching. The “College Experience” may look different from person to person, but no matter what path they decide to take, everyone has the ability to do what is best for themselves and their future.
