Emma Bastian, nutritional science
How does this award reflect your journey at Iowa State?
Receiving this award feels like I have wonderful people in my corner who recognize my efforts over the years. Their support has truly meant the world. More than just academics, I feel that this award reflects that my time here was meaningful, that it mattered to someone.
What’s one unexpected lesson or skill you’re taking with you from Iowa State?
I now know how to distinguish between a gopher hole and a mole hole which feels like an important survival skill.
How has your experience at Iowa State shaped who you are today?
After I medically withdrew from school, I had to rebuild many aspects of my life, and coming back to Iowa State was seriously difficult and scary. I really struggled in the first semester back. It took time to learn how to advocate for myself and reach out for help from professors. I finally finished my finals, though, and came to a realization that just six months prior, I didn't think I could ever be a student again. I call that my semester of reconstruction. Doing that felt incredibly fulfilling, and I have a huge appreciation for anyone who is a non-traditional student — whether they are first-generation, an international student, returning to school, or overcoming barriers to getting their education every day.
How does your chosen item represent you or your time at Iowa State?
My chosen item is this ceramic pot. Of course, I love to cook, and in this respect, the pot speaks for itself. I am also someone who believes strongly in the ways in which food connects us. When I first started at Iowa State, I didn't have a clear sense of purpose. Cooking for others allowed me to find this sense of purpose, which is working towards food security for all. Food is a basic human right, and I think we all have a role to play in securing that right. Cooking is not only how I express love, but it's also a way in which I express myself and these values.