Carrasco named Student of the Month

Carrasco has been involved in Project Strive for about a year and has impacted the organization's members, according to Director Jennifer Schaer.

“Fun-loving, caring, and serious when he needs to be, Cayden is wonderful to have in the Project Strive program. He encourages new students to be in the program and is a leader to all those around him. Cayden is hard-working and has many interests that make him a well-rounded person. When asked to complete a task, Cayden jumps in with both feet and makes it happen,” Schaer said.

Carrasco is a Senior Resident Advisor, Student Ambassador, and Vice Chair of Records for the Campus Activities Board. He is also a participant in jazz band, drumline, Huddle, the music industry club, and a member of Music Educators Nebraska Association (MENA).

“I enjoy helping people, and my positions on campus allow me to do that. I enjoy teaching incoming students about the college as an ambassador and showing them the light this college has brought to my life. Being an RA allows me to be a resource for my residents. I just like being there for people,” Carrasco said.

Carrasco originally planned on attending a Bible college, but felt an attraction to CSC.

“I feel like I have a purpose here. I want to be a light in the darkness for the people who are dealing with tough things in life. Everyone is going through a battle of some kind that not everyone knows about,” Carrasco said.

Dr. Miranda Scoggan, one of his favorite faculty members, said she is impressed with Carrasco.

“Cayden is a kind person and a wonderful student to have in class. He is passionate about helping others and becoming a teacher. I look forward to seeing what his future holds in the field of education,” Scoggan said.

Director of Housing and Residence Life Taylor Osmotherly thinks Carrasco is a great choice for the award.

“Cayden is an exceptionally talented and thoughtful student whose positive impact resonates throughout Chadron State College. He consistently demonstrates kindness, respect, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of the CSC community. His leadership and passion shine in his engagement in music ensembles, his RA and ambassador positions, and his involvement in student organizations,” Osmotherly said.

Jeremy Quick, music instructor, says Carrasco stands out among his peers.

“Through his activity in the community, personable manner, and teachable mindset, Cayden embodies the qualities of an exemplary student. While comfortable in any conversation, his willingness to listen and engage with others is noteworthy,” Quick said.

Chadron State College’s Project Strive/TRiO program, located in the lower level of the King Library, is an academic enrichment program committed to help students succeed. Project Strive also focuses on career exploration, cultural and social enrichment, and self-awareness. To be eligible for the program, a student must be one of the following: A first-generation student where neither parent has a four-year degree, meet low-income status based on U.S. Department of Health and Human Services criteria, or have a documented disability. For more information, visit https://www.csc.edu/projectstrive/.