IVCC Freshman Brooke Shirley is the prime example of a true student-athlete. She is involved in both softball and volleyball here at IVCC. She is a defensive specialist or libero on the court. On the field, she primarily plays shortstop, but she can play outfield as well. Shirley adds, “I continued to play these sports in college because growing up, I have always played them, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them. I love the friendships I’ve made while playing as well.” When asked about the upcoming volleyball season being canceled, she states, “ I am bummed out because our team got to bond very well in November when we were able to practice, and we were a strong group of athletes that I think would’ve been a tough competition to beat.” 

Shirley is a nursing major, which comes with a lot of school work on top of playing her sports. She is personally not a fan of online learning because she feels like she is missing out on hands-on experiences in the classroom. She thrives in a classroom where she can learn face to face and get feedback on questions she may have right away. Throughout the early months of quarantine, her favorite activity was cleaning and organizing.