Applications open for NDSU’s Bison to the Bakken student travel experience

The Bison to the Bakken program, a unique three-credit travel experience that provides students with an in-depth exploration of the energy industry in the state is now accepting applicants.

Participation is open to undergraduate and graduate students, with space limited to 45 students. Those selected will register for the associated three-credit fall course, which is included in regular fall tuition. Travel and lodging are covered through sponsored support.

This immersive opportunity allows students to gain firsthand insights into various sectors of energy production and distribution, including oil and gas production, fracking, pipelines, carbon capture, biofuels, lignite coal, wind energy and economic development.

“Bison to the Bakken gets students out of the classroom and into the heart of an industry that impacts everyone,” said Kathryn Birkeland, Ronald and Kaye Olson Dean of the College of Business. “You will meet professionals from multi-billion-dollar companies operating right here in North Dakota. You will gain first-hand knowledge of how every sector of the economy powers their technology. The experience will help you develop as a young professional for any career you choose. The companies and towns we visit are excited for the herd to roll into town.”

Linnea Axtman, an NDSU business administration student, took part in the program last year, where she received valuable insight into the energy industry. She encourages students to apply to gain real-world insights and professional connections.

"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look at the processes and places where energy is created. It is eye-opening to see how every major and career type fits into the energy industry,” Axtman said.

Students will embark on their weeklong trip out west on Saturday, Aug. 15. The First half of the week will be based in the Dickinson area and the second half in the Bismarck area. Beyond connecting with energy companies, the week will also include networking events, social activities, a stop in Medora, a visit to Theodore Roosevelt National Park and more.

New this year, Bison to the Bakken is expanding beyond western North Dakota to showcase energy innovation happening across the state. In addition to time in the Bakken region, students will take day field trips to explore cutting-edge energy companies and technologies right here in the Red River Valley, within an hour of Fargo. The field trips will take place on Sept. 4, Sept. 18, and Oct. 9.

Travel and lodging are fully covered by sponsored gifts. Some meals are included, but students should plan to cover approximately one meal per day.

Students interested in applying can learn more and submit their application by March 31 online.

For questions, contact Kay Hopkins, College of Business Assistant Dean, at kay.hopkins@ndsu.edu or (701) 231-8826.