Student Spotlight—April 2009

Linda Moorhead
Hometown: Edgewood, Kentucky
Began at UK in fall 2006
US Advisor: Matthew Deffendall
Current Major: Secondary Mathematics Education with a minor in Psychology
College: Education
Anticipated Graduation Date: May 2010
Favorite Class: COM 101 and Ultimate Frisbee (KHP 101)
Hardest Class: MA 114, BIO 150, or any of my Honors classes

Linda Moorehead bled blue most of her life but truly became a Wildcat after her first official visit in 2005. "I loved the campus, friendly people, and all of the opportunities that were waiting for me," Linda remembered.

A native of northern Kentucky, Linda graduated 17th in her class of 286 from Dixie Heights High School in 2006. She applied to the Honors program and attended Merit Weekend in March 2006.

"When I decided to attend the University of Kentucky, I had no idea what major I would choose. I heard sometimes it is best to go into college not really knowing what you are going to do. College is when you get to know yourself best, and hopefully you will be able to find what you are truly passionate about. I felt that Undergraduate Studies would help me grow the most, and provide me with the guidance and opportunities to take a few 'random' classes so I would eventually find what I enjoy most."

This journey did not come easily for Linda. At first she wanted to pursue a career in health science like pharmacy, physical therapy, or medicine. "My advisor also encouraged me to take classes outside of the sciences that interested me like my Calculus II class," Linda recalled. At the end of the first year, Linda found herself not enjoying the hard science routine. She said her advisor's "positive attitude" helped her realize her strengths and weaknesses.

Linda completed a career test and talked with other students in majors she was considering. As a sophomore, she found a home in the College of Education as a Secondary Mathematics Education with a minor in Psychology. After graduation in May 2010 and graduate school to earn her teaching certificate, she plans on teaching high school mathematics in Kentucky and coach high school volleyball or fast pitch softball team.

Linda has been very active on campus as a resident advisor at Donovan Hall since fall 2007, member of Resident Advisor Advisory Board (RAAB), Catholic Newman Center, DanceBlue Team captain, Undergraduate Studies Student Ambassador, and K Crew member for 2009-2010. "One of my best memories of my freshman year was the Georgia football game...everyone in the student section decided to rush the field" as Linda watched from stands.

Her advice for current students in Undergraduate Studies "would be to listen to advisors!" She stressed "they are filled with valuable information and are more than happy to help out any students who reach out for their help."

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