Pieper named Project Strive/TRiO student of the month

Pieper, an education major with a focus in middle school math and science, is also a math tutor in the Learning Center in the King Library.

She said her favorite Chadron State College class so far has been human biology with Dr. Wendy Jamison. Pieper said it was this class that gave her the inspiration to focus on math and science.

“Dr. Jamison’s biology class was my favorite, because it really opened my eyes to the world of science. We also did so many activities that I can eventually apply to my own classroom,” Pieper said.

Pieper knew she wanted to become a teacher at a young age, but she just needed direction about how to accomplish it.

“My great aunt attended Chadron State so I knew of the place. My great uncle also explained the great education programs CSC offered. So, at that young age I decided I would attend CSC and become a teacher,” Pieper said.

Pieper is also active outsideof her education courses. She is part of the Newman Club, Newman Bible Study, Residence Life Association, Revive and Night of Country Swing. In her free time, she enjoys farming, gardening, reading and crafting.

Amanda Lewin, retention specialist at Project Strive/TRiO, works closely with Pieper and said she is not only an asset to Project Strive, but to CSC.

“We really enjoy having Barbara in our program. She is a bright young woman who is very motivated. She participated in many events last year, including several of our crafting activities. We chose her for Student of the Month because she is active in our program and a leader on CSC’s campus,” Lewin said.

Pieper’s day-to-day schedule is busy and orderly, but even so, she finds time to let loose.

“Honestly, the stress-relieving activities we do at Project Strive are my favorite. Whether it is coloring or just blowing bubbles, it is nice take a step back and do something mindless to relax,” Pieper said.