Christensen honored as April Student of the Month

Christensen is a junior studying mathematics with an endorsement in education. After graduating, he hopes to teach in a small town, similar to the one he was raised in. According to Christensen, his future career has always been clear.  

“I knew I wanted to be a teacher from a super young age,” he said. “Growing up, I had a lot of teachers who impacted me in a great way. I want to be that for kids in the future and help them improve their lives.”

Christensen said he is particularly invested in education-centered classes and learning how to look at math through different lenses.

“I really enjoyed the reading and writing in the content area because it forced me to look at literacy in the mathematics spectrum. It helps me get a better understanding of how other students learn,” Christensen said.

As a thrower for the track and field team and member of Blue Key Honor Society, Christensen demonstrates strong involvement around campus. He plans to continue with athletics in the future by coaching at the middle or high school level.

Christensen’s older sister previously attended CSC and was a big reason for his decision to enroll. He said that touring campus ahead of time and having someone to show him around made the transition smooth. Additionally, Christensen said his sister’s involvement with Project Strive helped him see the value of the organization before joining.

According to Jen Schaer, Director of Project Strive, Christensen is a respected and involved member.

“Caleb has been part of the Strive program for three years. He has become an enthusiastic ambassador for the program, helping recruit new students with his outgoing personality,” Schaer said. “He has also taken full advantage of opportunities that have come his way, including participating in track, working in the Learning Lab, and serving as a substitute in the public school 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/.