When Alexandria Mullally reflects on her college journey, she credits one educator with changing the trajectory of her life: Aimee Zoeller. Entering Zoeller’s program, Alexandria admits her world felt limited.
She said, “learning from her opened my eyes to many things I did not even know I did not know. She influenced my life by teaching me openness and curiosity, not based on my own personal opinion but based on the reality of our society.”
That shift in perspective wasn’t confined to the classroom. Alexandria recalls a powerful moment in Zoeller’s HIV/AIDS course, where students were urged to step outside of textbooks and into the real world. The class traveled to Austin, Indiana, working at the state’s only needle exchange clinic. “We spoke directly with HIV-positive families and helped provide aid,” Alexandria remembered. “We can read or hear about their experiences, but I did not understand as much as I do now until I worked on the ground alongside them.” The experience not only deepened her knowledge but also instilled empathy and an enduring sense of responsibility.
Equally impactful was Zoeller’s approach to building community within her classes. Instead of passively listening, students engaged in active dialogue, learning as much from each other as they did from the curriculum. “The courses were group-focused. Discussion was regular and part of our learning process,” Alexandria explained. “Aimee created an active and engaged group of students who were comfortable asking for help directly at any point we needed.”
For Alexandria, these practices shaped her both personally and professionally. She gained confidence, sharpened her ability to collaborate, and grew into someone eager to pursue knowledge well beyond the classroom.
When asked what advice she’d share with other students, Alexandria’s response was simple but impactful: “If you can, sit in the front row! Even if you are nervous or the room is large and full. Stay engaged. Participation is important, so put yourself out there a little.”
As for what lasting impact looks like, Alexandria believes it reveals itself differently in every student. “When you get to experience their growth and confidence build up, the difference is clear.”
Through her experiences with Aimee Zoeller, Alexandria embodies the essence of transformative learning: curiosity that expands into understanding, and understanding that grows into action.
