“Being at a place where everyone is so proud to wear Morningside maroon and be part of the community is really special. The pride that my peers and I have in being Morningsiders is something I think sets Morningside apart. It’s awesome that people feel so good about being a Mustang.

I came to Morningside through volleyball. I am from Burlington, Iowa, where I grew up with my supportive parents, an older brother, and a younger sister. I was really involved at West Burlington High School and after a camp in high school, the coaching staff at Morningside reached out to me. As soon as I set foot on campus, I knew I had found the right place. The size was perfect and the vibe I felt was homey and all love.

Since I have arrived here, I have found myself being pushed to a new level of excellence. My coaches Jessica Squier and Kayla Ruff have really made a difference for me, and they have helped me become a kinder, stronger, more loving human both on and off the court. That excellence has also been found in the education program. I know I want to make a difference and help students be the best they can be, and that starts with being the best I can be as a person and a teacher.

Morningside has been the best experience of my life so far. Though college can be an adjustment, there is just so much opportunity to enjoy. I am grateful to be at a place where I can soak it all in with people who I genuinely love and care about.”

-Sydney Marlow, bringing excellence to all things she does in her Morningside experience