As the University of Nebraska–Lincoln celebrates its May 2025 commencement, CEHS is highlighting six graduates who share about their experiences in this Q-&-A.
Kaylee Flynn
Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology
Omaha, Nebraska
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
All of the faculty members have shared so much passion and knowledge about the field of speech pathology; it means a lot to be able to take what I have learned and expand my skillset and areas of interest.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
The relationships I formed throughout my graduate program will always stay with me, including my peers, professors, clinical supervisors, clients, and students.
Involvement and activities while on campus:
Graduate assistant for the interim department chair
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be completing my clinical fellowship year in Nebraska. I hope to begin travel therapy work the following year!
"After graduation, I am most looking forward to _______________."
Forming new relationships and providing necessary services to those in my community.
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Ellie Higgins
Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education: English Language Arts
Nebraska City, Nebraska
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
To me, graduating from Nebraska means joining a long legacy of people who, after being equipped by the university, excel in their field with passion and dedication.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
Dr. Gatti and Dr. Harpster have been two incredibly impactful people during my time on campus. As the professors for the Secondary English Education Cohort during our junior and senior years, they taught us some of the most vital lessons a pre-service teacher can learn. They have challenged me, encouraged me, and made me a better teacher and person. They give their all to every student they have. We, as well as all our future students, are better because they are here!
Involvement and activities while on campus:
Gamma Phi Beta, Mortar Board, coach and senior lead for the Clifton Strengths Institute, and campus host.
What are your plans after graduation?
Attending the Watermark Institute in Dallas, Texas.
"After graduation, I am most looking forward to _______________."
Applying all of the skills I have learned through my classes and involvements! And starting a new adventure!
Was there anything that pleasantly surprised you about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or your experience here?
How quickly the university felt like home! It was easy to get involved in things I was passionate about and even discover new passions!
Share a "thank you message" to someone who helped you throughout your time as a Husker.
Dr. Gatti and Dr. Harpster, thank you for being such impactful people during my time here! You have not only cared about me as a student and future educator, but also as a person. You have challenged me and given me every tool I needed to succeed.
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Madeline Metzger
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
Highlands Ranch, Colorado
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
It is a symbol of resilience, growth, hard work, and determination.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
Each of my practicum and student teaching experiences at Nebraska has been transformational. These opportunities not only allowed me to apply what I was learning in real classrooms, but also helped me build meaningful relationships with mentor teachers, students, and peers. Each placement challenged me in new ways, whether it was adapting to different classroom dynamics, learning to differentiate instruction, or finding my voice as a teacher. These experiences have helped shape my confidence, resilience, and teaching philosophy. They confirmed my passion for education and commitment to creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment. I carry these experiences with me, knowing they’ve prepared me to be a reflective and responsive educator.
Involvement and activities while on campus:
Greek Life (Kappa Kappa Gamma)
What are your plans after graduation?
Second grade teacher in Papillion, Nebraska.
"After graduation, I am most looking forward to _______________."
...to stepping into my own classroom where I can build a welcoming, engaging space for my students to learn and grow. At the same time, I’m excited to embrace life as a young adult, navigating new responsibilities, exploring new places, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally.
Was there anything that pleasantly surprised you about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or your experience here?
One of the most pleasant surprises during my time at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln was how deeply connected and supported I felt within such a large campus community. Despite its size, the university never felt overwhelming—professors were not only approachable but truly committed to student success, always willing to offer guidance and encouragement. My peers brought an incredible sense of warmth, kindness, and collaboration, making everyday experiences feel personal and uplifting. That strong sense of community extended far beyond campus. The way the entire state comes together in support of Husker athletics creates a powerful, shared spirit that reminded me I was part of something much bigger than myself.
Share a "thank you message" to someone who helped you throughout your time as a Husker.
Thank you, Dr. Emily Fisher, for being such a positive role model, inspiring teacher, and supportive mentor. Your passion for education, thoughtful guidance, and unwavering encouragement have made a lasting impact on both my personal and professional growth. I’m truly grateful for the influence you’ve had on my journey; your example will continue to guide me as I begin my journey in the classroom.
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Aya Boko
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and Global Studies
Lincoln, Nebraska
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
Graduating from Nebraska means everything to me. As a former refugee who moved to Nebraska at age 11, this milestone is more than just a degree — it’s proof of how far I’ve come. It represents the resilience of my family, the opportunities I never imagined I’d have, and the hope I carry for the future. Nebraska became the place where I rebuilt my life and found my voice, and graduating here feels like coming full circle.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
One of the most transformational moments during my time at Nebraska was discovering the student organization Future Teachers of Color (FTOC). I first got involved through Dr. Amanda Morales, who introduced me to the group and became a mentor who truly believed in me. Through FTOC, I found a powerful sense of community, a space where I felt seen and supported as a future educator of color. Being part of the executive team gave me leadership experience, opportunities to mentor high school students of color interested in teaching, and even took me to Texas for a professional development event I’ll never forget. FTOC helped me realize that I belong in education and that I have the power to create inclusive spaces for my future students, just like others did for me.
Involvement and activities while on campus:
Future Teachers of Color, Teacher Scholars Academy, William H. Thompson Scholars, Peace Corps Prep, Delta Xi Nu, Multicultural Sorority, Multicultural Greek Council, African Student’s Association
What are your plans after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to begin my teaching career with Lincoln Public Schools. I have signed a contract and am currently exploring job openings within the district. I will be staying in Lincoln, Nebraska, as I take this next step in becoming an elementary educator.
"After graduation, I am most looking forward to _______________."
After graduation, I am most looking forward to finally having the time to read for fun again and getting lost in books I’ve been putting off!
Was there anything that pleasantly surprised you about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or your experience here?
Even on such a big campus, I was pleasantly surprised by how possible it was to find a sense of community. Through my majors and organizations like Future Teachers of Color, I found supportive spaces where I could grow, connect, and feel like I truly belonged.
Write a "thank you message" to someone who helped you throughout your time as a Husker.
I’m incredibly grateful to all the amazing professors who supported, encouraged, and believed in me throughout my time at UNL. Your guidance shaped my journey in more ways than you know, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without your dedication and care.
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Sarah Eaton
Doctor of Philosophy in Nutrition
San Lorenzo, California
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
Graduating from Nebraska means I made it through something incredibly difficult. During my Ph.D., I faced serious health challenges, including hyperemesis gravidarum, seven surgeries, and becoming a new mom to twins, all while my husband was also pursuing his Ph.D. and we had no family nearby. There were times when finishing felt nearly impossible. But I kept going and completed the program. This degree is more than an academic accomplishment; it has become a personal symbol of resilience, persistence, and the strength it took to keep moving forward through some of the hardest years of my life.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
A truly transformational moment for me was returning to my program after a year of medical leave. I was extremely ill with hyperemesis gravidarum, underwent multiple surgeries, and gave birth to twins. Re-entering academia in the midst of recovery and early motherhood felt daunting, but the support I received, especially from Dr. Heather Rasmussen, made it possible. Her guidance and encouragement helped me regain confidence in my path.
Involvement and activities while on campus:
I served as a graduate student representative (GSA member) for the Department of Nutrition and Health Science
What are your plans after graduation?
My family will be moving to Salt Lake City, Utah, where my husband will begin a postdoctoral position. I’m currently exploring job opportunities and hope to find a position where I can apply my training in a meaningful way, possibly in nonprofit work, community health, or continuing research. I would especially love to transition my research towards maternal health and hyperemesis gravidarum.
Was there anything that pleasantly surprised you about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or your experience here?
I was truly impressed by the Graduate Student Assembly (GSA) and their dedication to advocating for graduate students. Their hard work and genuine care for improving the graduate student experience was both refreshing and inspiring, and I’m grateful for their efforts in making campus life better for students.
Write a "thank you message" to someone who helped you throughout your time as a Husker.
Thank you, Dr. Rasmussen, for standing by me during one of the hardest seasons of my life. Your compassion and unwavering support helped me return to my program when I wasn’t sure it was even possible. Your encouragement kept me moving forward, and I’m forever grateful.
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Sara Burbach
Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Wellness
Hartington, Nebraska
What does graduating from Nebraska mean to you?
Graduating from Nebraska is a great accomplishment that I will always remember. This place and this experience has been about far more than just gaining knowledge and getting a degree. It has been about gaining experience, broadening my capacity to learn, making connections, developing relationships, and strengthening my faith. Graduating from Nebraska is an end to a great chapter of life.
As you think about graduating from Nebraska, please share any transformational moment(s) — a class you took, a professor with whom you had a strong connection, a way you got involved on campus, an internship or experience you had off campus. How did it help shape who you are or what you will do going forward?
One of the experiences I'm most grateful for is my time as a teaching assistant and research assistant for Dr. Couch. This experience shaped my ability to get outside of my comfort zone and connect to students that I might not have typically connected with. It increased my confidence in my own knowledge and ability to teach others. Dr. Couch was a great mentor always providing strong encouragement and guidance in how to be the best teaching assistant. I also learned so much during my time as a research assistant. I had no previous experience in this realm, so Dr. Couch shaped all that I now know about conducting research as he worked so patiently with me. Although it is quite unconventional, I will actually use a lot of what I learned as a teaching assistant in my time as a missionary. I will be working with students on a college campus as a missionary with the Catholic Church. My time learning how to engage with my peers and students younger than me will help me greatly as I reach out and teach students about their faith and journey with them in that capacity.
Please list involvements while on campus.
Newman Center Catholic Church, Chi Omega, Dance Marathon (morale captain)
Plans (job, continuing education, internship, etc) after graduation. Include which city/state you will be living in.
I will be a missionary with the Fellowship of Catholic University Students on a college campus somewhere in the United States. I will be training in Lincoln but will not find out which campus I am being sent to until June. As a missionary my goal is to share the knowledge and formation I have received with college students so that they may come to have a relationship with Jesus.
Fill in the blank: "After graduation, I am most looking forward to _______________."
Live on mission full-time. I have been leading Bible studies and leading others in faith formation while balancing being a student and working. I am very excited to get to invest all my time into mission!
Was there anything that pleasantly surprised you about the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or your experience here?
I was pleasantly surprised by how much I was able to grow in my faith and foster deep friendships here at UNL. I wasn't expecting that to be such a core part of my experience here, but that is truly my biggest takeaway from my time here.
Write a "thank you message" to someone who helped you throughout your time as a Husker.
Thank you to everyone at the Newman Center for making my college experience so transformative and impactful. Vic, Fr. Sasse, Fr. Kaup, and all the FOCUS missionaries, you played a huge role in making me the person I am today!
College of Education and Human Sciences
Nutrition and Health Sciences
Special Education and Communication Disorders
Teaching, Learning & Teacher Education
