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For the past four years, Lane Kunzie (’22 criminal justice, psychology) has embarked on an incredible Iowa State adventure that has taken him down roads he never imagined. From studying abroad in Spain, to interning as a mental health/life skills counselor, to participating in numerous campus organizations, Kunzie welcomed all opportunities at Iowa State. And, he says he’s better prepared for his future in criminal justice because of them.

“I never thought I would know as many people as I do now,” Kunzie said. “Iowa State has allowed my social skills to be amplified to a point where I don’t have any struggles communicating effectively, both in classrooms and in social settings.”

Kunzie, a criminal justice and psychology double major with a minor in Spanish, intends to use those communication skills to pursue a career that focuses on helping others. He believes a degree in criminal justice will provide a firm foundation for his future. He appreciates the major’s diverse course offerings as well as its expert faculty members, especially those who specialize in victimization.

“When I attend graduate school with a focus in criminology and sociology, my undergraduate degree from Iowa State will serve as a solid basis for a future career,” Kunzie said. “I added psychology onto my docket for a better social perspective.”

A plethora of unique college experiences

Iowa State has helped foster unique experiences in each of Kunzie’s academic interests. He delved deep into his criminal justice major when he served as a peer mentor for the Criminal Justice League learning community, which he considers one his proudest achievements at Iowa State. He is bolstering his psychology major by interning with Optimae LifeServices in Ames, where he works as a mental health/life skills counselor. And, Kunzie immersed himself in the Spanish language and culture when he studied abroad for one year in Caceres, Spain.

In addition, Kunzie has been involved with numerous campus activities and events, including Psychology Club, Dance Marathon, PRIDE Goes Greek and Yell Like Hell. He has held leadership positions in Beta Theta Pi fraternity, Green Dot and the Interfraternity Council. In fall 2021, Kunzie was selected to be on Iowa State’s Homecoming Court.

“These clubs and organizations allowed me to network and amplify my social skills. I have participated in activism across campus, increased a positive image for my fraternity and engaged with faculty,” Kunzie said. “There is an abundance of opportunity to choose from.”

Whether he is traveling the globe, supporting individuals with mental health challenges or leading a campus organization, the sum of these activities totals up to a wealth of experiences that has prepared Kunzie for his next adventure beyond Iowa State.

“I plan to make a difference in the world by being supportive of others and standing up for what I believe in,” Kunzie said. “My career in the future, thanks to my degree from Iowa State, will allow me to make a difference in the legal system.”