Hello, my name is Brooke Beard and I am a current college student,
I am a Junior at Liberty University, completing a degree in strategic communications with a focus in social media management. I also intend to complete a minor in Graphic Design.
While attending Liberty University I am currently on the NCAA Women’s Lacrosse team. I have been playing lacrosse since 4th grade when my neighbor introduced me to the sport. Since then, I have been a part of a travel team with the intent to play in college.
Growing up Christianity has always been present in my family. From 7th – 12th grade I attended a private Christian school. This environment became comfortable and natural to me. When traveling into high school, I knew I wanted to continue to surround myself with that environment. For recruiting purposes, Division 1 programs are allowed to communicate with the intended recruit during their junior year of high school. With this being said, I was prepared to commit to a college during my junior year.
I knew Liberty University was the place for me after visiting the school in September of my Junior year of high school. The three main things I was looking at in a school were a lacrosse program, the location/facilities, and the culture of the team. Liberty University Women’s Lacrosse provided all those things, while also integrating a Christian worldview. Liberty University felt like home. My teammates are my best friends, and I wouldn’t see myself fitting into any other programs.
Being a part of this program has developed my character substantially. This program has shown me how to work hard and get results. It has also fueled my competitiveness, in a healthy manner. It has provided me with leadership and communication skills. Finally, the program has developed my faith. Overall, I have experienced events I never thought I would, and developed me into a more mature version of myself.
I feel as if my experiences have prepared me for a future workforce, however, I also have recent experiences from this summer. I had the opportunity to coach lacrosse to fourth graders and travel with them throughout the summer tournaments.
Initially, I wasn’t stoked when I discovered the age group. Growing up I have never had a good way with children and felt a big disconnect through communication. In addition to this, it was my first year coaching. I was filled with nerves and frustration. When entering the beginning of the summer, the first few practices were a struggle. It was a learning process for both the fourth graders and me. After a while, I strengthened my organizational skills when creating the practice plan. I also found my voice and developed my leadership skills. After competing in games at the tournament I learned how to be flexible and adapt to my environment, regardless of if they are losing or winning. This really pushed my patience and communication skills.
I also helped run my high school lacrosse Instagram account. This gave me a little experience with Adobe Photoshop, and ultimately gave me the passion to add Graphic Design as my minor. Growing up school was not my strong suit. No matter the subject I had to go out of my way to study hard and be diligent with my work. This developed my organizational skills and diligence towards hard tasks.
Although lacrosse has always been a part of my life, it is not my whole life. Prioritizing my faith, and developing my character has been the journey. I feel as though my past experiences have formed skills that I will utilize for the rest of my life.
