The University of Northern Iowa introduced several members of its spring 2026 graduating class on May 6, sharing their academic backgrounds, experiences at the university, and post-graduation plans.
Graduates come from a range of programs including clinical mental health counseling, secondary science teaching, economics and finance, graphic design and Spanish, social work, elementary education with special education endorsement, and postsecondary education: student affairs. Many graduates expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by UNI to develop professionally and personally. One graduate said her confidence tripled during her studies due to supportive professors who encouraged public speaking. Another highlighted the sense of community found in both classroom settings and extracurricular activities such as the Dementia Simulation House.
Several students discussed their immediate next steps after graduation. Plans include working as a school-based therapist in Van Horne, Iowa; teaching chemistry, physics and computer science at Adel DeSoto Minburn High School; joining Tenaska in Omaha as an energy analyst; completing an internship at Medical Associates in Dubuque; pursuing art abroad; returning to UNI for a master’s degree in social work while serving as a graduate assistant; teaching in alternative educational settings such as juvenile detention centers; or beginning careers in higher education advising.
Students credited UNI’s programs for preparing them for these roles through hands-on experiences like internships or business preparation courses. Some emphasized the importance of networking with faculty outside class hours to gain research or job opportunities. Others pointed out how involvement with campus organizations enhanced their learning beyond coursework.
Reflecting on their time at UNI, graduates described strong support systems among peers and faculty that helped them grow academically and personally. One graduate summed up her experience by saying she was grateful for gaining confidence, skills, and relationships that will carry into her career.
