Have you ever worked out with 100 other people? Freshman Sara Derr does twice a week. βGoing for runs with that many people, everyone's cheering you on,β says the ROTC cadet.
Training to serve in the U.S. Air Force, sheβs carrying on a family legacy: her mother served in the Air Force for seven years, her father in the Navy for five. As a member of the Arnold Air Society, a professional honorary service organization, she volunteers at ΒιΆΉΣ³Ορ Childrenβs Hospital and serves food at Pike Place community dinners. Over Christmas, they held a special service to lay wreaths on the veteranβs graves.
With three , Derr is studying chemistry, biology, and studio media. Her creative outlet is art: photographing weddings, portraits, or snapping photos for SPUβs student newspaper, . And those 100 other cadets she trains with? Theyβve become like family. For Derr, joining the Air Force is her way of giving back. βItβs just being ready and available for when my country needs me.β