By Desiree M. Cooper
Cori Hawes knows how to get involved. She is a Biology major with a minor in Chemistry and an emphasis in Pre-Medical Studies. Recently, she reflected on her four years at Eastern New Mexico University and talked about her busy senior year.
Chase: You participate in a lot of campus activities. Which organizations are you a part of?
Hawes: I am the captain of the dance team, the president of the women’s fraternity Chi Omega, a student senator for ASENMU, a member of Caduceus Health Society, and I work for Campus Life.
Chase: Wow, that is a big list. On top of all that, I’ve heard you are also running for homecoming queen.
Hawes: Yes. I think it is important for everyone to know that I don’t represent just one thing. I want to represent everyone.
Chase: You are doing a great job so far. Do you have any advice for new students?
Hawes: Get involved. When I first got here, I didn’t know anyone. I was not one of those people who was outgoing. Being in the Spirit Squad changed that. I met people who got me involved in Greek life, which got me involved in ASAB, which got me involved in the Student Senate. Being involved is the best way to make a difference in your school.
Chase: Speaking of making a difference, would you like to share how you helped people this past summer?
Hawes: I went to Taiwan and taught English to kindergarten-aged kids. I really enjoyed it; that whole culture is so friendly and welcoming.
Chase: Did you bring back any souvenirs?
Hawes: Yes. Before I left, I bought a lot of cool food. Some of my favorites were candied octopus and Taiwanese pineapple cake.
Chase: What other types of food did you try there?
Hawes: I have a whole list somewhere. I tried so many things that I didn’t want to forget any of them. The most memorable ones were eel, fried gluten, shrimp chips, and ostrich.
Chase: It sounds like an adventure. As a senior graduating in May, what has been your favorite ENMU experience?
Hawes: My freshmen year, the Spirit Squad went to Bartlesville, Okla., to cheer for the men’s basketball team at the Lone Star Conference. It was a road trip with all of my friends. We became close as a team.