Abigail Chyma discovers belonging at UNI through sports, business and community
Abigail Chyma discovers belonging at UNI through sports, business and community
Choosing the University of Northern Iowa felt natural for Abigail Chyma (’28). Growing up in Tama, she spent years visiting campus cheering at UNI-Dome football games, tagging along at the Iowa Thespian Festival and even staying in her sister’s UNI apartment when a derecho knocked out power at home. But it wasn’t until she arrived as a student at the Wilson College of Business in 2025 that she truly found her place.
During Welcome Week, Chyma stopped at the student organization fair and noticed the women’s rugby team. She had never played rugby before, even though she spent years watching her brother compete and grew up immersed in sports like soccer and wrestling. But the players were warm and welcoming, and she decided to attend their first meeting.
I had never felt so welcomed joining a team before, I knew this was going to be my team. I felt very at home there.
That early decision became one of the most important parts of her first semester. Chyma joined the team and eventually helped the Panthers win their conference before advancing to Nationals in Missouri and finishing in the Final Four.
UNI’s supportive atmosphere extended far beyond rugby, too. Chyma quickly discovered that the campus community was eager to help her succeed, whether she needed directions during her first week or flexibility with her work schedule to accommodate her rugby schedule. And through another student she met during move-in, Chyma found Chi Alpha, a campus ministry that provided another meaningful source of connection.
“I had always gone to church growing up, and I didn’t expect to find a church up here that felt like home, but I loved it right away,” Chyma said. “I felt so grateful. Everything around the church was just awesome — the atmosphere, the people, everything.”
Inside the Wilson College of Business, Chyma works for Office for Professional Distinction, helping prepare materials for Business 1000 and 2000. The experience has helped her form strong relationships with staff and faculty, easing her transition into college life.
Her interest in business began in high school, when she took a general business course through Marshalltown Community College and found herself enjoying college-level work..
A new UNI scholarship for students from Tama County — the David W. Wilson Scholars Endowed Fund — made her path even clearer. After interviewing for the award, she waited anxiously for weeks before being surprised at school with the news that she had been selected.
“It meant everything to me,” Chyma said. “It has made college so much easier for me and my family.”
Now exploring her academic options within the business college and considering a semester abroad, Chyma feels confident she chose the right place.
“I’ve been here so many times before, but living here is different,” she said. “UNI has become such a comfortable place for me. It feels like home.”
