Buccaneer Spotlight - Andrea Keesee

The freshman year of college presents unique challenges to a student, being away from home for the first time while handling advanced studies. Intercollegiate athletics provide opportunities for students to continue their athletic careers, but the time commitment alone can be overwhelming. CSU’s Andrea Keesee, a freshman who intends to pursue an elementary education degree, competes for the volleyball team and is also a member of Army ROTC on campus.

Keesee, an outside hitter from Blythewood High School near Columbia, S.C., has a strong work ethic that carries over from the court, to her ROTC training, to coursework and the rest of her daily life. She feels that being involved in so many activities has given her opportunities for further involvement, as well as helped her build relationships.

"You most definitely need to be able to manage your time well. But, you can go and do your homework, then you can go to practice later, and then do ROTC in the morning," Keese said. "It definitely helps me to be more organized and be wiser as far as time management goes."

She entered college with a scholarship from ROTC, as she served as a JROTC Battalion Executive Officer during high school. Andrea excelled academically, athletically and in ROTC during high school. Her days at CSU include early-morning military training, class, practice and study table, among other activities.

Keesee said, "It’s definitely challenging. I like the challenge of going to The Citadel and working with them. It’s pushing me to be not only a strong cadet but a strong leader in everyday situations. Waking up at 6 o’clock in the morning for PT might not be the best, but I like staying physically fit."

Head Coach Danyel Bellush said, "Andrea is a really hard-working kid, and juggles a lot of things in her life, as far as academics, and ROTC and volleyball. She has got the personality to boot. She’s friends with everybody on our campus."

Keesee’s current involvement in ROTC carries with it a four-year post-collegiate commitment to serve in the Armed Forces. Pursuing a career as a kindergarten teacher, Keesee plans to spend four years in the Army Reserve following her days at CSU. She feels a passion towards education, leading to her decision to serve in a reserve role.

Keesee has thrived with the spiritual emphasis on campus, taking part in worship opportunities offered. She said, "I like being in an atmosphere where I don’t have to be ashamed to praise God. So, being on a campus where it promotes you to just uplift him, it’s such an amazing experience. And I’m also able to get that influence within my schoolwork, too. I love this environment."

The Columbia, S.C., product made an early impact on the court this season, competing in each of the first six matches. She set season highs with seven kills and four digs vs. Delaware State at the season-opening tournament. Keesee came through during the fifth set against Citadel, posting a pair of block assists on the final three points to help cap a 3-2 victory over the Bulldogs.

Head Coach Danyel Bellush appreciates the potential that Keesee possesses to have an impact during her career at CSU. Coach Bellush said, "I’m excited about what she can bring in the future, because she’s really developing into quite a player. We’re very excited to have her."