CAHNRS Coug Connections: Cori Sears

Each week, we showcase one of our CAHNRS Ambassadors, a student leadership organization that encourages students to pursue higher education and serves as a liaison between the college and the greater community. This week, we’re featuring Cori Sears, a senior from Kettle Falls, Wash.

Cori Sears

What are you studying?

I’m majoring in Human Development, with a concentration in Family and Consumer Sciences Education.

Why did you choose WSU?

I chose WSU because of some amazing people in my life who encouraged me and kept telling me that I could do it. They were my high school principal Mr. Hill, and my Spanish teacher Mr. Esvelt, and of course, my Family and Consumer Sciences teacher, Mrs. Esvelt. They believed in me before I believed in myself and I will forever be grateful for that.

What is special about being a CAHNRS Coug?

CAHNRS is a family, my home away from home. Just like our majors are all inter-related somehow, so are we, and we take care of each other.

What is your favorite CAHNRS class so far and why?

Human Development 205 (Communications and Life Skills) and Human Development 415 (Peak Experiences through Leadership) were my favorite classes in CAHNRS so far. In fact, I enjoyed them enough that I became a teaching assistant for both. These classes are my passion because they teach real life skills in an interactive way that is meaningful and engaging. These classes changed my life for the better.

Who are influential professors that you’ve had, and how did they impact your life?

Debbie Handy, Deb Nelson, and Anna Whitehall were all amazing and take being an instructor to a new level. They are dependable and understanding, compassionate and helpful. I definitely did not get this far on my own, these ladies played a big role in getting me to where I am today.

What extracurricular activities are you involved in besides ambassadors?

Teaching Assistant for HD 205 and HD 415, PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), WAFCS (Washington Association of Family and Consumer Sciences) Student Unit President

What is a fun fact about you?

My favorite thing to do is watch Disney movies on my VHS player with all the original previews and animation from my childhood.

What advice would you give an incoming freshman/high school senior to help them adjust to college?

Take advantage of the opportunities and make decisions based on your values and beliefs. Have the courage to become who you really are.

Favorite item/flavor at Ferdinand’s?

Smoky Cheddar Cougar Gold Cheese or Strawberry Ice Cream