Hola! Coming Home To Carroll
Loving life back in Carroll, Iowa, is how Piper Potthoff would describe her decision to move back to her hometown after spending nearly a year in Omaha, Neb. Potthoff, who works as a residential appraisal associate in her family's business, Potthoff Appraisals, grew up on a farm outside of Carroll and went to Loras College. After graduating from Loras with a public relations and Spanish major, along with a business minor, she decided to move to Omaha to work. "It was just so much busier and hard to meet people," explains Potthoff. "It took 45 minutes to get anywhere."
During her time at Loras, Potthoff spent a semester abroad in Granada, Spain. She stayed with a host family and took classes completely in Spanish. Piper found the most valuable take away from learning abroad, besides the enhanced language skills, was global awareness. "I got the bug to travel and developed the curiosity to learn more about the rest of the world through that experience," says Potthoff.
For many reasons, Potthoff says she's happy to be back in her hometown. "I believe the quality of life is enhanced in a smaller town because it allows you to be more connected to the community, the people, the kids and schools; you become involved in making this a great place to live," declares Potthoff. She grew up in a family with one older brother and three younger sisters, and is enjoying being near her parents and her youngest sister who is in junior high school. Piper says growing up on a farm taught her to work hard and appreciate family.
The Iowa native enjoys the fact that there is the opportunity to really contribute to the community in Western Iowa - whether it's as part of a small business or a citizen of Carroll, the impact is felt. "Your business matters here," she says.
The aspect of coming home that Piper has most appreciated is how easy it is has been make new friends in a smaller community. When asked if she was reconnecting with high school friends, she said not necessarily - she's easily met new people. "Most of the people I hang out with are new friends, younger people like me who are enjoying living in Carroll."
