You may not know her name, but you probably recognize the program that Megan Cahill is involved with. She’s a senior majoring in communications and hospitality management. She is from Prior Lake, Minnesota and has had an array of leadership positions while at MU, with her most recent being president of STRIPES.
Her Campus Mizzou: So can you tell me about STRIPES and your position as president?
Megan Cahill: STRIPES is the safe ride home program on campus. We provide any MU student a free, safe and confidential ride home Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m. To request a ride from STRIPES, you can find our number on the back of every student ID or request a ride via the Go Mizzou application. I am the executive director of STRIPES, so I help oversee the entire organization from weekly operations, to teams, to risk management procedures and everything else in between.
HCM: What has been the most valuable thing you have learned while being involved with STRIPES?
MC: The most valuable thing I have learned from being involved in STRIPES is that any one can make a difference and help save a life. When I first began STRIPES, people would tell me you’re saving lives but it did not really hit me that I actually truly was helping save lives. Every night we operate, we give around 250 students a safe ride home. That means we helped ensure not only the patrons got home safely, but the rest of the Mizzou community is safe as well.
HCM: What are some other clubs you are involved in besides STRIPES?
MC: Currently, I am only involved with STRIPES. I previously have been involved with RHA, NRHH, Board of Elections Committee with MSA, and the Women’s Leadership Conference Steering Committee.
HCM: What made you become so involved on campus, especially with STRIPES?
MC: I have always loved helping others and when I first heard about STRIPES as a freshman, it was something that caught my attention. When I saw how much fun the volunteers were always having and knowing I was helping save lives, it made me fall in love with the organization and made me continue getting more involved with the organization.
HCM: How can readers get more information on STRIPES and potentially get involved?
MC: To be a member of STRIPES, we have applications that open at the end of every semester. Applications, dates and information about becoming a member can be found on our website.
HCM: Besides all of your experiences with STRIPES, what is your favorite Mizzou memory?
MC: My favorite Mizzou memory was homecoming my freshman year when we beat OU! It was my first homecoming, so the atmosphere and Mizzou spirit I saw made me fall in love with the university even more!