By Derrick Smith

Cherokee Hibbs is a senior at Locust Grove High School and is also a student at the Pryor Campus of Northeast Tech. She says that she has a family member to thank for her learning about what the campus offers.

“My grandma worked at the campus,” Hibbs said. “She told me a lot about it and she really caught my attention when she said how far it will get me before I go to college.”

She is in the Health Careers program, which is the field that Hibbs wants to go into for her career. 

“I like being in the health care field because I will always be helping someone,” she said. “Plus the money is not bad either. Tech is great because it explains how I might do things in the future, how to handle different situations, and it teaches me what’s best for every situation.”

Hibbs has some words of advice for anyone who is considering attending Northeast Tech. 

“I would tell them to definitely do it,” she stated. “You will be more prepared for your future and you will have a leg up on everyone else.”

Hibbs has had numerous people who have made an impact on her life, but she says that there are a few that have had a big influence on her. 

“My parents and my aunt Lana would have to be the biggest role models in my life,” she said. “My mom and dad are so strong and independent. My aunt Lana has always played softball since she was little and I want to work hard and be like her.”

As a member of the Lady Pirates softball team, Hibbs has had a lot of great experiences during her athletic career. 

“I love bonding with my teammates,” she said. “It is great to grow as a team and also to win with them is a great experience. The bus rides to and from games are some of the best times of the season.”

After she graduates from Locust Grove and Northeast Tech, Hibbs already has her plans made for her future. 

“I want to further my academic and athletic career at Cowley County Community College,” she stated. “I want to earn my associate degree and play for the Cowley Tigers.”