By Derrick Smith

Currently a junior at Cherokee High School, Korey Dooley is steadily preparing for her future. 

“I am part of the Health Careers program at Northwest Technology Center in Alva,” she stated. “I want to pursue a career in the medical field, and the Health Careers program allowed me to get my start. Once I graduate from high school, I plan to attend Northwestern Oklahoma State University and work on my nursing degree.”

Dooley is thankful for the program she is in at Northwest Tech because it is giving her a good look at what to expect in the future.

“I believe it is allowing me to have an understanding of taking care of many different types of people and whatever they may be dealing with.”

Korey is a member of Cherokee’s basketball and track teams. Over her career, she has had some memorable moments both on the track and on the court. But out of all of them, she says that there is one that stands out, mainly because, while she faced an obstacle, she was still able to finish.

“The most memorable moment in my sports career is falling at the regional track meet,” she said. “I skinned up my legs and arms but was still able to get up and finish the race. It was tough but I was definitely proud that I did not let myself quit. Part of the reason I love to compete is because I enjoy pushing myself to perform at a higher level.”

Throughout her life, Dooley has had people that have influenced her, but she says that there is one person that has had the biggest impact on her.

“My mom is the biggest role model for my life,” she said. “She has the determination to achieve anything she sets her mind to.”