By Maya Diedrich
Karen graduated from Mini-School in 1994 and is here because of one of her college requirements. She has to volunteer in a teaching environment. She is attending Normandale for Liberal Art and Agricultural Education. She is a great help to have around and it’s reassuring to know that there is someone there that is willing and able to answer any questions you may have.
Maya- How do you like helping out in Mini-School?
Karen- Most favorite thing to do in her day because she can “Relax and do what I feel like”.
Maya- What are you going to school for?
Karen- General classes, next year majoring in agricultural education.
Maya- What are your plans for the future?
Karen- Get a 4 year degree, move to Oregon in a house with a huge yard and horses….and marry her boyfriend.
Maya- How has Mini-School changed since you graduated?
Karen- Less flannels & less Grateful Dead stuff, it’s still about the same, same issues, kids with same attitude.
Maya- If you were a fruit what would you be?
Karen- Kiwi, they are ugly and gross on the outside – but awesome on the inside.
Maya- When did you come into Mini-School? Why?
Karen- Half way through Sophomore year 1992, doing poorly in mainstream and had clinical depression.
Maya- How long were you in Mini?
Karen- 2 and a half years.
Maya- How many pairs of shoes do you have?
Karen- 17
Maya- What was your favorite trip?
Karen- Grand Canyon, it was a 3 week trip, got to know all the people on the trip, didn’t want to come home.
Maya- What’s your favorite section of the newspaper?
Karen- Comics, variety, it’s the only section of the newspaper as far as I’m concerned.
Maya- Where are you working & living?
Karen- Living with parents and working at Target, Ridgedale.
Maya- How are the people in Mini treating you?
Karen- Everyone’s friendly, took a while to get comfortable in this situation again but, now it’s like being at home.
Maya- What hobbies interest you?
Karen- Canoeing, backpacking, camping, scuba diving, downhill skiing, horseback riding.
Maya- If you were stranded on a desert island what one thing would you want with you?
Karen- Boyfriend, for companionship
Maya- What brings back memories for you? Your best memory?
Karen- First day in Mini-School two guys, Mike Davis and Matt Richards initiating new members of Mini-School.