Cheryl-Marie Hansberger

What memory or story comes to mind when you think about EOP or your experience with EOP? I was told, “when you graduate you will enlist in the Marine Corp or go to College and the Corps is no place for a girl”. I was still recovering from trauma that followed years of drug abuse in my family, an accident, and a series of life changing events, I was not ready for college. My senior year Ms. Anita Rivers took me under her wing, guided me, garnered me provisional admission, and changed my life. What impact did EOP have in helping you attain your goals and current level of success? Weeks after graduation, I started Summer Bridge. The program provided instructional support, an introduction to the campus, support, and most importantly confidence. I would not have the life I have today without the EOP program. It was through the program that I developed my own passion for helping others, this is what gives me purpose and pride. Why do you believe programs like EOP are important in higher education? When I see somebody in need, I think back to when my electricity was cut off and the EOP staff rescued me. There was not fanfare, a lecture, or many words exchanged, they simply stepped in and provided a solution. Do you have any words of wisdom for current EOP students? My story is the epitome of EOP’s impact, every student with the right level of support can go on to achieve their dreams, to contribute positively to others, and to engage in meaningful work. Don’t we owe this level of support to our most vulnerable communities?