How a Scholarship Helped an Algona Student Broaden Her Horizons at Iowa
PHOTO: JOHN EMIGH
UI first-year student Aly Yokimishyn has made the most of her scholarship support by getting involved in several student organizations at Iowa.
Raised in a town of 400, Aly Yokimishyn felt nervous about her transition to the University of Iowa. The Wesley, Iowa, native was actively involved in extracurricular activities at Algona High School, including student senate, broadcasting, journalism, and golf, but didn't know if she'd be able to pursue her varied interests at Iowa.
A gift from Randy (80BBA, 82MBA) and Jenee Rinderknecht (82BS) through the Forevermore Scholarship helped make that possibility a reality. The scholarship provides students with access to more opportunities at Iowa by easing their financial burden, and each donor who gives $1,000 or more is matched with an incoming first-year student.
Reflecting on their own experiences at the UI, the Rinderknechts were inspired to help a fellow Hawkeye. "Jenee and I have many fond memories of our time at the University of Iowa and living in Iowa City," says Randy Rinderknecht. "I hope this [scholarship] provides some financial relief to a student, so they can focus on furthering their education, discovering who they want to be, and having fun."
Yokimishyn has made the most of their support. The honors student is pursuing her interests in public health and English, while also exploring new territory in Introduction to Philosophy. "I'm really grateful to receive this scholarship," says Yokimishyn. "It's made a big difference in my life because I don't need to focus as much on the financial side of college."
Beyond the classroom, Yokimishyn is active in Students to Assist Recruitment, an organization that helps recruit prospective students to the UI; Best Buddies, a group that pairs UI students with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to foster friendships; A Moment of Magic, a program where students volunteer at UI Stead Family Children's Hospital dressed as princesses or superheroes; and the Presidential Scholars Program, which promotes growth and self-discovery through peer mentoring. All of these opportunities have allowed Yokimishyn to gain a better understanding of herself, get more involved, and develop a sense of community in her new surroundings.
"I love campus, and I love the atmosphere," says Yokimishyn. "Joining all of these groups makes Iowa seem a bit smaller."
To support students like Aly, visit givetoiowa.org/forevermore.