HOW CSC HELPED ME FIND MY STORY
I was a little 4’9” freshman (I’m now a 4’9” senior) scared out of my mind, walking into Dr. Coughlin’s office for the first time, towards the end of my first semester. The only plan I ever had for my life, since the 7th grade, had just crumbled before my eyes.
Since I was 13, I had known that I wanted to have a career in the medical field. I came to CSC with that goal in mind, as an RHOP student, ignoring of the fact that my lowest two ACT scores were math and science, while my highest was reading (*cue applause*). I was raised by an English teacher and librarian, and the love of books and literature proved to be hereditary. Regardless, I let my rebellious side that got the best of me and entered my freshman year in the Math & Science Department. I wanted to write my own story, make my own path, and do my own thing, regardless of where I knew my heart was tugging me.

Just minutes into meeting Dr. Coughlin, I knew where I belonged. The energy that he expressed was contagious. It was an energy of excitement, love, and a passion for his students and his job. It was no question that, upon leaving his office, Dr. Coughlin was invested in my success. Throughout my time here, Dr. Coughlin has always proved to have more faith and confidence in me as a writer and student. A confidence in myself that I have yet to achieve.
The CSC English Department has proven to be another home for me. The team of professors has coached not only me, but countless other students, throughout our time here. They are shoulders to cry on. They are invested not only in their student’s academically, but in their health and well-being.
Professionally, the CSC English Department pushed, what I previously thought were my limits, to a whole new level. I have grown so much as a writer, student, and individual since being placed in their classrooms. They truly prepare their students for the professional world, and don’t hesitate to counsel a student through his or her career options. The one-on-one time that they are able to give to students is something priceless. They push their students to achieve above and beyond what one could ever expect.
This semester, I graduate with my degree in English Literature and a minor in Creative Writing. I’m not just graduating CSC a better writer and reader, but I’m leaving a better person.
They have helped shape me into the person that I am today. They teach their students to see the world through multiple different lenses and perspectives. Students come out of their classes as more caring, thoughtful, and empathetic individuals. Studying under this department has truly been a privilege. The lessons taught in the classroom span beyond the classroom walls. And, that, I believe is priceless.
In a college so remote, there is a family waiting for you. A community of professors that want to see nothing but your success. Come visit the CSC English Department and see how they can help you find your story!
Find Your Story…

Pictured top row, left to right: Dr. Kimberly Cox, Alyssa Ermish, Dr. Lee Miller, Zane Hesting, Dr. Matthew Evertson, Lacey Gojkovich, Lynda Talady, and Leslie Hopton. Bottom row, left to right: Timmi Keisel, Kelly Cooper, Dr. Steven Coughlin, Dr. Mary Clai Jones, Mr. Markus Egler Jones, and Shannon Schneider.
The English, Humanities, and Philosophy Programs at Chadron State College want to help find your story! What path will you choose? Click HERE to find out more!
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Facebook: @englishcsc
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Featured
Join us for Creative Writing Day on Jan 20th!
CURRENT and FUTURE TEACHERS and WRITERS: Join us for an afternoon of creativity and inspiration–and learn more about English and Humanities opportunities at Chadron State. The following events will also be shared via ZOOM. (Contact mevertson@csc.edu for log-in information or if you have any questions). English & Humanities Meet & Greet 3:30 to 4:00 PM Old Admin #227 Learn more about the programs we offer,… Read more
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Morose Joy: A Response to Kooser’s “Father”
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Mundane Beauty: A Response to Kooser’s “Old Lilacs”
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Upon Reflection
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White Butterfly: A Response to Kooser’s “Lobocraspis Griseifusa”
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A Nebraska Frontier Family Home
By Mickey Douglas Students in ENG 442 are sharing their reading responses to the Major Nebraska Writers we have encountered this Fall. Mickey’s post was inspired by her reading of Mari Sandoz. Mari Sandoz, a Major Nebraska Author, wrote about home and family. She writes in great detail about the Nebraska Sandhills and her early… Read more
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Tamara Bila’s Portfolio
English 8 will include the study of elements of a novel, six traits of writing with emphasis on descriptive writing, Holocaust literature and the impact of the Holocaust, basic elements of poetry, and grammar. Students in English 8 will also write an MLA style research paper and be introduced to basic public speaking strategies. Portfolio… Read more
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Julissa Gomez’s Portfolio
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McKenzie Miller’s Portfolio
This persuasive writing unit is set up for an Eighth Grade English Language Arts Class, adhering to Nebraska state standards. Portfolio Gallery: