McKynlee chose the University of Iowa because of the abundant opportunities within the College of Public Health. "They are so determined to make you feel comfortable, seen, and heard, and want you to succeed more than anything," she says.

In addition to academics, McKynlee is actively involved on campus. She serves as an ambassador for the College of Public Health, is a general member of the Campus Activities Board, a brother in the National Academic Fraternity Phi Sigma Pi, and a member of several organizations including Students to Assist Recruitment, the Student Health Advisory Committee, the Pre-Health Conference Planning Committee, and the Undergraduate Public Health Organization. "All of these clubs and organizations mean the world to me, and have taught me crucial life lessons, and have furthered my acumen in the field I plan on pursuing, Public Health."

Academically, McKynlee fondly remembers the triumph of acing her first Public Health Science (biostatistics) exam after staying up all night preparing. "I remember crying on the phone with my mom—it was the first time I ever felt so strongly about acing an exam because of the caliber of the exam."

Her advice to prospective students? "Take one day at a time. It goes by so quickly. Try new things and do NOT let anyone tell you who to be. Be yourself, work hard, and HAVE FUN!"