Cora Jeffers is a senior vocal music education major from Sherman, Ill. She plays outfield for MU softball and is a member of the student-athlete advisory council.

How did you start your career in softball and why do you like it as much?
My dad played professional baseball in the minor leagues for the Cardinals, so I was pretty much born playing.  With both of my brothers playing baseball too, softball and baseball pretty much were our summers.  It’s definitely a family affair!

How did you come to choose Millikin?
Since about my sophomore year in high school, I knew I wanted to teach music.  Three of my music teachers growing up had gone to Millikin, and I loved them all, so I figured I should probably check out that school. When it came down to choosing between the final two schools, Millikin was closer to home and small enough that I could play softball and be a music education major.

What was your favorite memory from this season so far?
Off the field…making our “Harlem Shake” video on the bus in Florida!
Another great memory was the very first inning of the year. I had gotten on base somehow, and so did our two or three hitter. My roommate Janet is our four hitter, and she came up with two us of on base and completely cranked one over the right-center field fence. I remember thinking “Holy cow, Jan!” It was so far gone, I didn’t even get back to tag-up. It was her first at-bat of the year and our first runs of the season. I was just so excited for her to start our senior year like that. It was awesome.
Oh, and beating the career-stolen base record was fun too!

What is one thing you would pass on as advice to younger softball players?
Have fun!  When you’re playing a sport, it’s easy to get stressed out.  Remember that it is just a game. That being said, always play to win, because it’s more fun to win!  And beat the Green Weenies!

What are your goals for after graduation? 
I’ve been busy applying for jobs.  I would love to teach elementary general music in central Illinois and maybe contribute as a coach for softball or basketball.

Do you wish to contribute to softball in any way after graduation?
Well, I will definitely be at the Alumni Game next fall to whoop up on some of this year’s underclassmen!