Meet Our Woman of the Week | Kate Hardman
Kate Hardman
Hometown: Birmingham, AL
Major: Nursing
About Kate (submitted by Sarah Whatley):
My first memory of Kate Hardman is her dancing at the new member retreat with a shirt over her head. I vividly remember thinking to myself, "She is so cool. I have to be her friend." And I am happy to say I accomplished my goal. Kate Hardman has been an answered prayer in my life over and over. Kate's friendship has been a tangible example of the way the Lord loves and cares for his children. Kate loves consistently and selflessly in a way I have never experienced. She is widely herself all the time, which is the thing I admire most about her. Her authenticity and joy are contagious. She makes me laugh constantly. As cheesy as it sounds, her friendship has a way of making my bad days not so bad and my good days even better. Because we are both in nursing school and we share a bathroom, we spend approximately 23 hours a day together, but I could not have chosen a better person to spend it with. Kate, I love you with my whole heart. I believe Auburn could not have picked a better candidate for Miss Homecoming. Thank you for being the greatest friend a girl could ever ask for. Here's to hoping you feel as celebrated this week as you make the rest of us feel on a daily basis.
Why did you choose your platform for Miss Homecoming?
In high school, I was given the opportunity to shadow at Children's on the pediatric oncology floor and I knew that this is where the Lord had called me. Serving as a nurse on that floor was an opportunity to make a child feel like a kid again, to give them a friend when they felt lonely, and normalize the hospital experience as much as possible. I was eager to begin my journey with those children and I couldn't wait to work with them. Around the same time, I began getting involved with Make-A-Wish. It provided an opportunity to have a here and now impact on these kids whom I was so eager to work with in the future. Make-A-Wish provides hope, strength, and joy for these children--the same three things I pray I have the honor of providing for them through nursing. I am so thankful for an organization that aligns with my dreams and the dreams of these children. It's an honor to partner with them this week!
If you were known for one thing, what would you want it to be?
I would love to be known as available--a pal to anyone who needs it, whenever they need it, in any way, shape, or form they need it. Whether it's a shoulder to cry on, a good laugh, a running buddy, or just a presence. I want people to know that there is always someone for them and cheering them on no matter what.
What is your go-to stress reliever?
LAUGHTER. A wise man once said, "Laughter is the best medicine." Oh baby, I guess call me medicated cause I love to giggle!!!
What are you most looking forward to for your senior year?
I'm looking forward to all "the lasts" as we sentimental seniors call it. Chi O has given me the most precious friendships I could ask for. Ask of my favorite memories involve them. We have vowed to make this year a year of "yes's," going to every opportunity to make a memory. So from the late night cookie tote runs to big, scary, exciting life changes--I am so excited for each lil memory with my pals.