By Sara Nelson

Happy “Where Do You Work?” Wednesday! This week meet alumna Sierra Smith (BA ’14 Psychology, MA ’16 Educational Psychology and Learning Sciences, certificate in Online Teaching).

Smith works as a Program Manager for Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates, a non-profit organization located in Des Moines, Iowa, that mentors high risk middle school through college age students, giving them the skills and motivation needed to succeed in higher education and in the workforce.

 “I work with amazing people who do incredible work,” says Smith. “Interacting with the students and seeing the change this program makes in their lives truly never gets old. I wake up every day excited to go to work.”

Smith is grateful to the College of Education for giving her the skills and confidence to succeed in the professional world.

“The College of Education gave me the belief in myself, and the knowledge to back up my thoughts and ideas,” says Smith. “Because of my time at the University of Iowa I am able to do a job that I love, do it well and know that I have the skills and education to grow. The College of Education taught me what it means to be a lifelong learner, a lesson I am forever grateful for.”

Want to be the next “Where Do You Work Wednesday?” or nominate someone? Message us on Facebook, tag them with #HawkeyeTeachers, or email us at educationatiowa@uiowa.edu.