Born and raised in Eastern Oregon, Michelle Herbes graduated from Eastern Oregon University in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in physical activity and health with an exercise science concentration and earned a minor in psychology.

A four-year letter winner in cross country, Herbes was a three-time all-conference performer and raced in four NAIA National Championships. Herbes also ran indoor and outdoor track for the Mountaineers where she was a nine-time All-American. She earned several individual conference titles and competed in every NAIA Track and Field National Championship.