Growing up in Killdeer, a town with a little over 1,000 people, gives a sense of community where everyone knows everyone. This was an important feature for Sydney Andersen when deciding on where to continue her education.

Andersen graduated from Bismarck State College in 2020 with two associate degrees in liberal arts and science. Starting her higher education career at BSC, Andersen liked the size and community feel of the school, which is how she also ended up at Minot State University in 2020.

“At BSC, I really enjoyed how it was just the right size so that you saw familiar faces everywhere you went on campus, but you also had many opportunities to try new things and meet new people. MSU has had that same atmosphere,” she said.

On top of the environment aspect of MSU, she also knew about the education program and, knowing she wanted to be a teacher, knew that the program could help her in her next step.

Currently, Andersen is student teaching at Bel Air Elementary School and has enjoyed the learning aspect of her experience. She has had many great opportunities to further her education as well as meet new people and gain connections.

“The best part of coming to MSU for me has been the people. Both socially and academically, I have met people here that I know will be a huge part of my career and personal life,” Andersen said. “Socially, MSU Life does a great job of providing diverse events on campus that get students involved and excited. Academically, the professors have reached out and got to know me personally. They truly care about their students’ success throughout their education and beyond graduation.”

Emphasizing her success has been an integral part in her positive experience at MSU, and she really praises and appreciates her professors for that.

“I have had many amazing professors here at MSU. All my professors in the education department have helped me prepare for my future. They have created very meaningful experiences for me, and I am especially grateful for the amazing clinicals I have been placed in,” she said.

With graduation around the corner, Andersen will graduate with a degree in elementary education and is extremely excited to begin her career in the teaching field, but also staying close to home.

“After graduation, I will be moving back near my hometown in western North Dakota,” she said. “I plan to work at an elementary school, hopefully in a position third through fifth grade. I am so excited to have my own classroom.”

She is ready for the next step in her life but will cherish her experiences and memories she’s made and is happy she chose to finish her education at Minot State.

“At bigger universities, it is hard for the students, professors, and other staff members to form a community like the one we have here in Minot,” Andersen said. “My future and success are truly made a priority here at Minot State.”