May 18, 2023

‘NDSU made sure I was set up to succeed right away’

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NDSU makes it easy for students to return to college no matter how much time has passed with the degree completion program. Students can pursue their original major or choose something new and courses can be taken online or on campus, depending on preference and availability.

NDSU will help students figure out how their credits transfer and offers scholarship opportunities specifically for students who have taken a break from higher education.

Current students recently shared their experiences with the program as they work to earn a degree and achieve their career goals.

Tanith McCloud

Tanith McCloud

Major: Psychology

Hometown: Grand Forks, North Dakota

Started: NDSU, 2010

Studying/Grad date: Online and on campus/2025

I decided to come back to school because I reached a point where I wasn’t passionate about my options to grow in my current career. I came back to NDSU because of the location and flexibility. The assistance and friendliness of my advisor was incredible and other staff were helpful during my transition back. The new skywalks and buildings on campus surprised me. I was impressed with how coursework and announcements have moved online and the options for online classes. I am grateful for the chance to finish my degree in a familiar place close to home. I’d encourage other students to make connections with classmates and staff. You will see that Bison Pride is a real thing.

Goals: After graduation, I plan to attend graduate school. I want to do research in developmental psychology and how horticulture therapy could assist children more than traditional talk therapy.

Emily Johnson

Emilee Johnson

Major: University Studies, minors in agribusiness and business administration

Hometown: Noonan, North Dakota

Started: Minnesota State University Moorhead, 2016

Studying/Grad date: Online/2023

It has been my goal to be the first person in my immediate family to earn a bachelor’s degree. NDSU was the only school I found willing to work with me to help me achieve my goals. NDSU made sure I was set up to succeed right away. I met with an advisor to see what credits would transfer and map out a plan. I was surprised at how welcoming everyone was to an online student, going above and beyond to make sure I had all the materials I needed. I have always felt included even though I’m not physically on campus. If you can make it work with your schedule, the staff will be there to support you along the way as you finish your degree.

Goals: My degree will help me advance my career with the USDA Farm Service Agency. I just finished training as a County Executive Director and look forward to advancing my career path with them. I hope to make NDSU proud as an alumni.

Theodore Peter Mandt

Theodore Peter Mandt

Major: Veterinary technology

Hometown: Norcross, Minnesota

Started: North Dakota State College of Science, 2017; transferred to NDSU, 2018

Studying/Grad date: On campus/2023

I came back to NDSU because I loved what I had been learning. My teachers’ excitement to have me back in the program was a big motivator to complete my degree. I was surprised at all the resources NDSU offers transfer students and students who are returning. My advisor made sure that I knew what steps I needed to take and supplied many resources to help me get back into the swing of college. The faculty has made sure that I have everything I need to be successful. It was tough returning to college after being deployed with the military and away from school for two years. Getting involved and making new friends made it a lot easier to return and be excited about finishing my degree. There is so much to do on campus: a wellness center with a rock-climbing wall and different classes, tons of clubs to get involved in and events going on every week. There is always something new.

Goals: I want to become a Certified Veterinary Technician. I also hope to further my career by commissioning as an officer in the North Dakota Army National Guard.

Kayla Carlson

Kayla Carlson

Major: University Studies, minor in business administration

Hometown: Fargo

Started: North Dakota State College of Science, 2014

Studying/Grad date: Online/2023

I came back to college because I wanted to continue to grow in my career and show my kids the value of getting my degree. The flexibility of the online school has offered me many options to work around my busy life schedule. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences with the faculty at NDSU and I’ve made connections with people that I know will help me going forward in my career. I’ve also been able to collaborate with other students through various tools in the online classes. I came to NDSU because of the community and opportunities for alumni. What surprised me most was how flexible they were. Some of the best qualities that I’ve gained from my experience are better time management and being able to prioritize family, work and myself.

Goals: I’ve learned a lot of different ways to work with people and build my leadership skills, which will help me to continue to grow in my career. I plan to continue my career in project management and move up as I am able. My degree will allow me to do that faster.

The university studies degree meets unique personal and career goals and is offered online or in person. Students pursuing this degree can apply for prior-learning credit to gain college credit for experience outside the classroom.

If you are considering returning to college to earn your bachelor’s degree and have been out of school for at least two years, the degree completion program could be a great opportunity.

Reach out today to see how easy it can be to finish your degree at NDSU.

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