Hannah Shafer

Projected graduation date: A.S. May 2016; B.S. May 2018

Where are you from? Beautiful Black Hills of Rapid City, SD

What is your job title and where do you work? Currently a bartender at The Mint Bar, Sheridan, WY; previously a lab assistant, wrangler, guide, gardener, undergraduate researcher

What is your current major? Biology and Outdoor Education

What are your goals?  Where do you see yourself in 5 years? My short term goal is to make it to Chile, Argentina, and most of South America with the National Outdoors Leadership School and become one step closer to finishing my degree. In 5 years I would like to see myself leading adventure education courses including a diverse range of environmental sciences.

When you need a break from academics…. I retreat to the mountains and read John Muir, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson collections.

My scholarships are important to me because…. They have offered the opportunity for me to expand my education beyond my own financial means. I have been able to concentrate on school, research, and extra-curricular activities which have propelled me forward to continue my education.

What do you love most about Sheridan College? The opportunity for undergraduate research at Sheridan College is unheard of by standards of larger institutions. Each year I found something which sparked my interest. With the guidance and support of so many staff and faculty members I was able to continue my regular class schedule while also conducting research. The research I conducted could easily be that of a graduate student or senior undergrad. This experience has encouraged me to look past boundaries and follow my restless pursuit for discovery.

How has being a Student Partner for the Sheridan College Foundation benefited you? Student Partners was a great resource for networking. Being able to meet the donors and to personally say thank you for their generosity was always a highlight of any event. I was grateful to gain friends and mentors through this program. The Foundation staff has offered immeasurable guidance and resources as well as their expertise and advice for my future plans.