Who am I

"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change the way you think about it." 

This is a quote I try to live by every day because it reflects how I approach challenges, opportunities, and life in general. My name is Kali Koontz, and I am an American Sign Language/English Interpreting major. I come from a small town in Indiana, where I learned the importance of community, hard work, and always being there for others. 

I would describe myself as very outgoing and social. I love meeting new people, making new friends, and learning from different perspectives. I am someone who naturally enjoys helping others whenever I can. Whether it is something small or something meaningful, being able to support people is something that genuinely makes me happy. 

One of my biggest passions is sports. I play golf here at Bloomsburg, and being part of a team has taught me discipline, patience, and how to push myself to be better. Golf is a sport that requires focus and mental strength, and it has shaped the way I handle pressure both on and off the course. 

Outside of sports, I love traveling, listening to music, reading, puzzles, and anything related to art. Traveling allows me to experience new places and cultures, which connects closely to why I chose to major in ASL/English interpreting. I am fascinated by communication, expression, and the many ways people connect with one another. Music and art are also forms of expression that I feel drawn to because they allow people to tell stories and share emotions without always needing words. 

Growing up in a small town gave me a strong sense of values. I learned to appreciate the little things, the importance of kindness, and how much of a difference one person can make. Those lessons continue to guide me as I work toward my goal of becoming an interpreter and helping bridge communication between communities. 

I am still learning more about who I am every day, but I know that I am someone who is driven, caring, and always open to growth. I want to continue challenging myself, meeting new people, and making a positive impact wherever I go.

At the end of the day, I am someone who believes in change, growth, and helping others, and I am excited to see where that mindset takes me in the future.