People of the Pack: Carlee Mechels

Carlee Mechels is a sophomore elementary education major from Lennox, SD.

Sara Cappiello: Why did you choose to go to USD?

Carlee Mechels: I chose to go to USD because it was a big college field but close to home. It’s only 45 minutes away so I thought it was a good choice. And they have a good program for my major.

SC: What are you involved in on campus?

CM: I’m in Pi Beta Phi and the Reading Counsel and that’s about it.

SC: Why did you choose these activities in particular?

CM: I thought they would look really good on my resume. Pi Beta Phi’s philanthropy is literacy, so we read with little kids and stuff and it’s actually giving me real-life experience for my future career. The Reading Counsel in basically the same thing but I had to do it for a class so I thought I’d pick something that would help me.

SC: What’s your favorite part about USD and why?

CM: I really enjoy student life and meeting new people. Everyone around you makes it so much fun. It’s really the atmosphere that makes it fun.

SC: What do you want to do after completing your education at USD?

CM: I hope to get a job at a school somewhere, probably in South Dakota since I’ll get grants for being here for four years. Maybe I’ll come back to school and start working on administration and become a principal someday.

SC: Has this year been easier or harder than your first year at USD?

CM: The classes have been a lot harder but getting around campus is a lot easier since I know the campus a lot better. I also know a lot more people so it’s a lot more enjoyable than last year.

SC: Is there anything you’re looking forward to or any goals you have for this year?

CM: My goal for this year is to do better in my classes than last year because that was a little rough. I also want to have fun but still get a quality education.