Meet Barbe Tom, Boise State student and sibling of two alums, who shares her passion for preserving Native American Heritage with fellow Broncos.
Q&A with Barbe Tom
What led you to consider Boise State?
Two of my siblings have graduated from Boise State University so it came naturally to me that this way was a top option. Although there were other schools I was interested in (vocational school), at least for the start of my undergraduate career I thought Boise State was a good starting point
What has that choice led to, and what has your time at Boise State looked like?
My time at BSU started off rocky but has gotten a lot better. At first I came in with no clue as to what my degree was going to be and no friends due to me moving to a new state right after high school. Although, after three years of attendance I feel as though I am on the right track of what degree I want to pursue, the people I am surrounded by, and what career I want to go for after graduation.
How did you decide to pursue the LEAD certificate?
During a meeting with my sorority Alpha Pi Sigma my sister, who is an Alum, Vero had asked to come in and talk to us about a new class Boise State was offering. During the meeting the Lead course had caught my eye and after a series of questions I went to my advisor to ask how I can modify my schedule to fit them in. Turns out I had already had my foot in the door as I had participated in the Alternative Break my spring semester that year. So from there it was set in stone to start working towards the Certificate of Leadership and HR.
What has been your favorite aspect of the program?
My favorite aspect of the program is the confidence they help us become aware in ourselves. I have not had a single class while in this course that allowed me to give up or look down on myself in anyway. If I needed a little more help or pushing there was always someone there for a boost. I enjoyed the support system this course had created inside the classroom.
Why would you recommend the LEAD certificate or other CI+D courses?
I would recommend it to anyone for a whole lot of reasons. Any person on campus can benefit from this course because it offers a time of self-reflection. By working on themselves it will by default help the surrounding community as well. This course definitely brings out the leadership qualities that reside in everyone.
