Whitney praises Project Strive

Whitney, a senior from Lincoln, Nebraska, is majoring in Social Work with a minor in Legal Studies. Outside of class, she is involved in the Psychology Club, The Big Event, and works for the Student Activities department. 

Whitney felt at home after her first visit to CSC. When looking at colleges she knew she wanted to go to a smaller school and when she began to compare other schools to the experience she had while on a tour at CSC, she knew Chadron State was the right place for her. 

Whitney values her connection with her Social Work faculty, Rebecca Fernau, and Adrianna Calle. Whitney said the two assistant professors give her a good outlet to talk about anything from class and her personal life to her future plans.

 “It’s really nice,” she said. “It's an environment where I know I can send an email and ask to talk when I just need some advice.”

 As a first-generation college student, Whitney relies on the support from Strive/TRiO. She has been in Strive/TRiO all four years of college and appreciates the support she received her sophomore year when she missed substantial time due to a family emergency.

Jen Schaer, Director of Project Strive/TRiO, said she is confident that Whitney will continue to make a positive difference in others’ lives. 

“Over the past year, she successfully balanced a demanding schedule and numerous commitments, demonstrating exceptional perseverance, responsibility, and work ethic,” Schaer says. 

After she graduates, Whitney plans to get her master’s in Social Work, and further her work with victim advocacy in the justice system. 

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/.