Senior Spotlight: Reina Strand
By Dan Fagan
University Communications
publicinformation@minotstateu.edu
KEIZER, Ore. – Four years ago, Reina Nicole Strand was a standout high school basketball player in Oregon signing her letter of intent with Minot State.
Fast forward to today, and she’s a Minot State graduate with an accomplished record in the classroom and on the court.
“While on my visit for basketball I was amazed by the Dome and how tightly knit the team was,” Strand said. “I wanted a place that felt like I had support and that people cared about me, which is exactly what Minot State offered me in the last four years.”
Strand majored in corporate fitness and wellness management with a concentration in sports medicine.
“Since the major includes business classes, I feel like it gives me more options with what I can do for a future job,” Strand said. “I'm glad that my education included hands-on, personal training and interaction with real clients. Working with people directly helped me grow and learn in multiple ways.”
In addition to class and basketball, Strand was a member of MSCOPE, Minot State’s physical education club, and was a student worker in the Office of Enrollment Services.
“I really enjoyed working as a student worker in Enrollment Services,” Strand said. “I felt at home and gained lots of friends through the experience.”
While Strand proved to be a key player on the court, earning Minot State Athlete of the Week last November, she also played a key role off the court. As part of her curriculum, Strand worked as a personal trainer for a local woman this past semester, meeting with her twice a week for training sessions.
“That was a huge blessing in disguise,” Strand said. “I didn't quite know what to expect. I didn't know much about being a personal trainer for the older population, previously I had worked mostly with youth and young adults. I cannot explain how thankful I am that I got the chance to not only work with her, but also get to know her.”
When the COVID-19 epidemic made it impossible for Strand to continue these training sessions in person, she continued to meet with the woman via Facetime.
“It was just an obstacle,” Strand said. “We decided to tackle it and not let it stop us from training.”
Now back in her home state of Oregon, Strand plans to attend graduate school, with the hope of eventually working in a hospital setting.
“Overall, I want to find myself in a career where I can directly impact and improve someone's life,” Strand said.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through
rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
| Published: 05/21/20 |
