Why do I give? Because I know a fellow University of Iowa student will benefit directly in their education from my and others’ gifts.
As a current senior in the Sport and Recreation Management Program (ex. BS Dec. 2023), I have not only had the joy of participating in One Day for Iowa's annual day of giving as a donor, but I have also had the pleasure of being on the receiving end of the positive impact the funds provide to students. Whether it’s a scholarship toward experiential learning or reduced fees for extra-awesome experiences such as field trips, donor support has maximized my ability to earn field experience and build connections.
UISRM’s hands-on learning opportunities enhance students’ knowledge and skill sets while also increasing connections with prominent leaders and mentors in the field. Being able to network with top professionals who can help prepare us for the next steps in our careers, potentially even landing an amazing job as a result, is something not every college student gets to experience to the extent UISRM students are afforded.
Despite being an online student and not residing in Iowa City, I have been able to go on field trips and meet people who have given me solid advice and new avenues to explore that might not have been facilitated if it wasn't for 'being at the right place at the right time'. The University of Iowa and our outstanding instructors really care, and they go the extra mile to make our college experience meaningful through these activities. But such opportunities wouldn't be possible without your gifts. Financial support of UISRM through the University of Iowa Center for Advancement paves the way to make experiential learning available for all students who desire to participate so cost is not a barrier. For that I, and many others, are thankful.
During my time as a UISRM student, I have completed 405+ work hours through UISRM’s Independent Field Experience course to start a small business, Spirited Yoga & Wellness. The business benefits the health and wellness of my community members through certified yoga instruction and healthy wellness programming in Marshalltown, Iowa. This has allowed me to continue to run our town's Yoga in the Park program on Saturday mornings during the summer months, giving the gift of yoga at no cost to patrons on these delightful weekends.
In the summer of 2022, we provided 373 class experiences over 18 weeks of yoga classes. A class experience is equivalent to one person participating in one 60-minute yoga class. We did it again in 2023, providing 309 class experiences over 14 weeks of yoga classes. This amounts to a grand total of 686 yoga class experiences to neighbors and guests since starting my Independent Field Experience course two years ago!
Ponder that for a moment: that is 686 hours of yoga that people engaged in. For some, they tried yoga for the first time simply because the class was easily available to them. For others it was taking advantage of an opportunity to improve their physical, mental, and spiritual health and learn a tool that can be used for a lifetime. We had many traveling guests join us, but we also had community members come back week after week.
As a recipient of John E. Evans Experiential Learning Awards, not only did financial support of UISRM benefit me personally as a University of Iowa student, but it also impacted the Marshalltown community as I was more able to bring quality programming that benefitted so many. Your generosity provided a ripple effect beyond just the recipient of the initial gift that potentially changed MANY lives for the better. We, as students, are equipped to be positive influences and make smart decisions that benefit others because of our quality education, supportive professors, and exposure to the donor-supported experiences that your gifts provide.
I am confident that my gift makes an impact and I know I will continue to give even after graduation. I am forever grateful to my friends and family who also supported UISRM on One Day for Iowa because they could feel my excitement knowing that anyone can give and make a difference. Even small gifts add up to big gives. Big gives equal opportunity. Opportunity equals meaningful impact!
I invite you to join me in supporting UISRM students with your contribution and continued support so that other future alumni to come after me also get to have these magnificent experiences.
Thank you so much and GO HAWKS!!!
-Heidi Draisey (ex. BS Dec. 2023)