A senior soon to graduate from East who is seen as an intelligent mind in class to some and a strong force in the gymnasium to others. Continuing her volleyball career at Southeastern Community College is Sheena Jepchumba, a student who takes charge and creates an environment that everyone wants to be in.
Starting her volleyball career in fifth grade, Jepchumba has made a remarkable impression on her friends and coaches during games.
“She has good blocks and good energy. she hypes everyone up and even when she’s not at her best her spikes are super good,” volleyball teammate Audrina Ly said.
At East, Jepchumba has faced many struggles throughout her high school years, but she has persevered even through the toughest times, even hurting her leg during one of her games never stopped her.
“Being at East has taught me that I’m stronger than I thought. Even when I felt overwhelmed or struggled, I didn’t give up. I’ve learned how to push through hard situations and grow from them. Transferring to East also showed me how important community is. Everyone was welcoming, and that helped me feel comfortable and supported,” Jepchumba said.
Jepchumba has felt lost at times during her high school experience, transferring from North to East in her sophomore going into junior year has caused a big impact on her being in an unfamiliar place, but with the help of her counselor, she has learned to be a part of something bigger.
“The most impactful moment for me at East was when I reached out to my counselor during a time when I felt really lost and didn’t have anyone to turn to. I asked her for help with some personal things, and she was very understanding and supportive. That moment meant a lot to me because it helped me start doing better and get out of a place where I felt stuck. I went from feeling lost and sad to feeling more motivated, encouraged, and ready to keep going. It showed me that everyone deserves a chance and support, and it helped me become stronger and more disciplined,” Jepchumba said.
Volleyball has been a big part of Jepchumba’s life, making it to varsity and showing up for her team when they needed it the most, even when she was nervous to perform in front of teammates who are older.
“I first got into volleyball in fifth grade when I found a tryout slip in my cubby. I went to tryouts with my friend, even though I was really nervous. After tryouts, we both made the team, and I realized I was playing with girls older than me. I was scared and even thought about quitting, but my mom encouraged me to stick with it. Once I started playing more, I realized volleyball was something I truly enjoyed and wanted to keep doing,” Jepchumba said.
Many could say she is a strong force, created by her friends, coaches and teammates, creating relationships with everyone around her. Jepchumba could be described as hard-working, trustworthy, and determined.
“I loved seeing her insights into things, and whenever I felt down Sheena always encouraged me,” volleyball manager Mya Rodriguez said.
Her friends often return the favor of motivating Jepchumba, helping her see the brightest parts of herself and creating memories with her friends in and outside of East
“My favorite volleyball moment was our game against Waterloo East when we went to five sets and won with a reverse sweep. It was such a big moment for our team, especially since it was early in the season. We were all so happy, celebrating and congratulating each other after working so hard for that win. Being with my teammates in that moment made it really special, and it’s something that still makes me feel happy and proud,” Jepchumba said.
Closing her chapter here at East, creating memories and making lifelong friends during her education has helped her understand her limits and her expectations for herself, continuing her career in volleyball and helping others see the values they have in themselves.
“After high school, I plan to attend Southeastern Community College, where I am committed to play volleyball. I want to major in occupational therapy because I enjoy helping others and making a difference in people’s lives. My experiences at East and in volleyball helped guide me toward this path, and I’m especially grateful to Coach Rhodes for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” Jepchumba said.
Having self-doubts has helped Jepchumba grow in many ways, seeing the person she has grown into helped her self-confidence and has supported her future, helping the people around her just as they helped her.
“I wish I had been more confident in myself earlier and didn’t doubt my abilities so much. There were times I felt unsure or scared, but I’ve learned that taking chances is how you grow,” Jepchumba said.
Jepchumba wants to remembered even after she has left East, making an impact on teachers, friends, and coaches.
“I want people to remember me as someone who was kind, welcoming, and easy to approach. I’m proud of the impact I’ve had and how I helped be part of growing the East volleyball program. I’m grateful for everything East has given me and the person it helped me become,” Jepchumba said.
