Project Strive and campus job help McPherson increase confidence

McPherson, Project Strive/TRiO Student of the Month for November, said she has increased her confidence level, in part, through her job at the Eagle Grille on campus. She has worked in various areas of the operation and especially enjoys catering.

“I get to know lots of people and I’ve become much more social. I can talk to people I’ve never met before. I want to help families so I will need to be comfortable talking with people,” said McPherson, who plans to earn her doctorate and become a family counselor.

Amber James, Creative Dining Services retail manager, said McPherson is hard working, positive and always ready to lend a hand.

“Over the last year and a half we have enjoyed watching Brooke grow and learn. I could not think of a better person to have received the Student of the Month award,” James said.

In addition to the recent honor, McPherson has earned scholarships through Project Strive/TRiO that have helped her afford summer classes and stay on track for graduation.

Her favorite class, so far, has been English 111, a transitional course.

“It’s amazing how much you can improve. Now, I correct other people’s’ grammar,” she said.

Although she has little time for extracurricular activities, McPherson was especially excited to be involved with other Project Strive/TRiO students and leaders in the organization’s plastic recycling project across campus this fall.

“It’s important. I’ve always been involved with recycling. In high school, I talked with my teachers about it,” she said.

Project Strive/TRiO director, Jen Schaer said McPherson was great help getting the recycling program started.

“Brooke has been a great assist to the Project Strive program. She has stepped up as a mentor this year and encourages the younger students to get involved more with Project Strive,” Schaer said.

McPherson is also involved in Phi Beta Lambda and the CSC Art Guild. She describes the pace of her life as one of “being on the go.”  

“I consider Chadron my home. The campus is beautiful and tuition is affordable. I knew during my campus tour that CSC is where I wanted to go,” she said.