Scholar Spotlight: Jinni Dingel
School: Iowa State University || Major: Early Childhood Education
Jinni is majoring in Early Childhood Education. If she could give any advice to someone who is applying for the Bright Scholarship, it would be to dig deep and be honest about who you are, where you are, and what you want to become. Scroll to read our full interview with Jinni and discover her favorite study spot!
What is the most interesting thing you have done or are planning to do to explore or gain experience in your career field?
The best part of my program has been taking part in each of the practicum experiences, both on and off campus, where I get to work with children of many ages and developmental stages. Being greeted by 15 rambunctious, smiling preschoolers each morning at the lab school is definitely a highlight of my day.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering applying for the Bright Scholarship/Lois Dale Scholarship?
My advice for anyone applying for this scholarship would be to dig deep and be honest about who you are, where you are, and what you want to become. My honesty of myself, I believe, is what helped me gain this scholarship because it allowed me to be vulnerable enough to express what I needed to be successful in the future.
What do you like most about your school?
What I love about Iowa State, especially the School of Education, is the culture. Of course the campus is beautiful, but the people here are so much more. The professors genuinely care about us and our success, both in our careers and in our personal lives. Knowing I have a support team both at college and at my workplace with ISU Dining makes walking around campus so refreshing.
What is your ideal study environment?
For some reason, I study best when I’m sitting in a booth. I’ve found a second home in the booths of Perkins at 10 p.m. Endless drink refills and stacks of pancakes have gotten me through many long nights of studying and writing lesson plans.
Who is your biggest inspiration and why?
My high school English teacher, who I now consider my adopted mom, has been my biggest inspiration since I met her a few years ago. She solidified my desire to pursue education as a career and gave me the extra love and support I needed to apply for this scholarship. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.