My name is Ceci Sweeney. I went to Dowling Catholic High School in Des Moines. I’m a sophomore studying agricultural education with minors in agricultural humanities and animal science. I’m a peer mentor, a WOO Crew member, the secretary of the garden club, the Vice President of Ag club, a member of Ag Ambassadors, and a member of Alpha Tau Alpha (ATA), our agriculture education honor society on campus. 

In high school, my agriculture teacher, Annika Holtzbauer, recommended Morningside to me. She had a couple of friends who were a part of the education program here, and the preparation they received before entering the classroom gave me confidence that Morningside was the right place to be. Morningside has been fantastic so far. They had me working in a classroom setting from my freshman year onward. There’s nothing that can prepare me better than that. 

Initially, the college decision was challenging because I had applied to several agricultural schools across the country, and the number of acceptance letters was overwhelming. However, the cost of attending an out-of-state college is extremely high, and I didn’t realize this until I frankly sat down and discussed finances with these colleges. I chose Morningside because, from the beginning, it didn’t make me feel the overwhelming stress I experienced at other universities. Sioux City is also just close enough to home to ease the homesickness. Now, in my second year, I see familiar faces, and it’s really comforting, as if we are all one family. 

Dan Witten, my advisor, is wonderful. Hearing about his experiences in the agriculture classrooms that he’s been in has been inspiring. He genuinely cares and wants to teach the next generation how to teach the next generation. 

College is about finding that balance before you go out into the work field. Find time for yourself, find your people, and find your space. And above all, if someone needs help, help them.