Gabriella Haywood

Fourth-year student

Hometown: Davenport, IA

Major: Social Work

Minor: Mental Health

Certificate: Child Welfare

Career Goal: My career goal is to get my Master's in Social Work after my undergrad. I would love to work in a school setting as a guidance counselor or help students in a TRIO/AVID program. I have many options with my degree, but my ultimate aim is to be a support system for students.

How has HSP participation enhanced your college experience at UNI? Legacy Scholars has opened doors to various workshops, seminars, and events that have enriched my educational experience. These opportunities have not only broadened my knowledge but also helped me develop essential skills that will be beneficial in my future career. Being a part of Legacy Scholars has also given me the chance to meet some amazing people. The relationships I have built within the program have been inspiring and motivating. I have learned so much from the experiences and perspectives of my fellow scholars, and their stories have further fueled my determination to succeed. Overall, the Legacy Scholars program has been a transformative experience for me. It has provided me with the tools, resources, and confidence to pursue my dreams of furthering my education and becoming a support system for students in the future.

How has your HSP experience prepared you for life after UNI? Legacy Scholars has played a crucial role in guiding me toward furthering my education beyond my bachelor's degree. As a first-generation student, I never knew I could continue my education or even where to begin. The support and guidance I received from Legacy Scholars has been invaluable. They provided me with a support system that I didn’t know I needed, helping me to navigate furthering my education. Through the Legacy program, I have been exposed to numerous opportunities for personal and academic growth. The program has allowed me to connect with mentors, advisors, and peers who share similar goals and challenges. These connections have been instrumental in helping me build a network of support and encouragement.