University of Minnesota Athletics
Black History Month: Chonquita Eckhardt
2/16/2018 12:00:00 AM | Softball
In honor of Black History Month, Gopher Athletics is celebrating those who made us great. Throughout February, GopherSports.com will share short interviews with African-American alumni from almost every Gopher program. In these interviews, former student-athletes reflect on their time at the U of M, provide advice to current Gophers and share what Black History Month means to them personally.
Name: Chonquita "CJ" Eckhardt (Maiden -- Jones)
Sport(s): Rowing and Softball
Years: Rowing ('07); Softball ('08-10)
Hometown: Chicago, Ill.
Occupation: Associate Director of Admissions at the Blake School
Twitter Handle: @ChonquitaJ
1) What is it you honestly miss most about the University?
I miss being a part of such a tight-knit group. My teammates were my family away from home. We had so much fun in practice, games, traveling, and we learned a lot from each other. I miss the pride and passion we all shared for a common goal. Being a student-athlete can be magical.
2) If you could give the current student-athletes any piece of advice, what would it be?
My advice would be to take advantage of all your resources. There is plenty of support to help navigate your journey. Go say "hi" to your academic advisors. Use the study halls to organize your academic responsibilities. It feels that much easier when you lean on the people there to assist your progress.
3) Please share your favorite university or athletic event you've attended since you graduated and what made it so special to you?
The first Homecoming after graduation was special to me. It reminded me of how amazing the University's community was for me. There is so much Gopher pride. I felt it when I was a student and feel it just the same after graduation. I am proud of the culture and love taking part in the experience.
4) What are you grateful for?
Being in education, I always share how impactful being a student-athlete is for your development. I am grateful to have met so many different people. I am grateful for the community I still have after graduation. I am grateful for the skills I built in my time at Minnesota. I am better off with time-management skills, interpersonal relationships, and life-long networks from my time at Minnesota.
5) What does Black History Month mean to you?
Pride, fulfillment, growth, magic, and beauty are a few words that describe Black History Month for me. There is still so much to learn about our Black History. This month also represents resilience. We should continue to navigate how we want our history. We should hope to continue pushing for a better society for ourselves and the people around us. It takes a village and I am proud of our village.
6) What occupies your time now?
Currently, I spend most of my time educating young people on their academic options, helping young students navigate the big world of high school and college experiences. I am also an avid CrossFit participant, so that is a ton of fun. More than anything else, enjoying my life here in Minnesota with my amazing partner, Amanda.