Issue XVII, Spring 2020

Photos: Miranda Bass

LEFT: Miranda Bass in Sevilla, Spain while studying abroad. RIGHT: Returning home from Spain and in line adhering to then-new social distancing guidelines.

Miranda Bass: A Chaotic Journey Abroad

By Miranda Bass, ‘22 (Spanish Education; Milwaukee, WI)

This semester, I was supposed to study with only the occasional FaceTime call to I had to adjust little things that I do to ac-
abroad in Spain for 16 weeks and keep a connect us. It gave me a newfound appre- commodate the culture in which I was
blog to document my time abroad, but I ciation for people who choose to or are submerged in. The biggest change I made,
had to come back early due to COVID-19. forced to be away from their families for while seemingly insignificant, was what I
I flew out at the beginning of January and long periods of time. ate for each meal and at what times I ate.
was supposed to be there until the end of Even though it was cut short, my time in For example, breakfast in Spain is tradi-
April. Even though my time in Spain was cut Spain really helped me develop my glob- tionally something small and more on the
short, I was still able to spend two months al citizenship competency. Through this sweeter side, as opposed to the big savory
in the city of Salamanca and my final two experience, I greatly increased my ability breakfasts we have in the US, and dinner
weeks in the capital, Madrid.    to speak Spanish well. In class, I was able wasn’t until between 8pm-10pm. It took
I’ve known for a while that I was going to to talk about topics that require more me a while to adjust to this!
study abroad while in college. Travelling thought and share my opinions. We talked However, despite any worries, I felt myself
has always been something that interested about several things, from environmental evolving as a person through my experi-
me, so I wanted to jump on the chance to concerns to comparing the political situa- ences in Spain. Normally, I’m a timid person
go somewhere else for a while for my stud- tions between Spain and the United States. but being in a new location with new peo-
ies. I chose to study abroad in a Spanish Even though I am back in Minnesota, I am ple allowed me to branch out more. I spoke
speaking country because it gave me am- continuing my Spanish Peninsular Culture up in class more than I had in the United
ple opportunity to hone my Spanish abili- class online where we left off discussing States and was more likely to interact with
ties while experiencing a new culture. the youth of Spain. Through my classes, it new people at the hostels I stayed at or
During the beginning of my trip, my big- has been interesting to see how different on excursions since I did a majority of my
gest struggle was that I missed home. Four cultures, between the variety of students travelling on my own. I noticed that I was
months seemed to be a very long time to in my classes and the professors, affect our actively seeking out new experiences and
be an ocean away from everyone I love opinions on certain subjects. Continued on page 4

1
 The Honors Beacon newsletter was The Spring 2020 Beacon Team
awarded 1st place in the student print
category of the National Collegiate Hon-
ors Council’s newsletter contest for the Editor-in-Chief
2014-2015 academic year. Jonathan Fjeld

Co-Editor
Emily Schiltz

Director’s Note
Dr. Leah White

The Spring 2020 us would see each other in person before Writers
issue of The Bea- the end of the school year. The best part Amber Chrischilles
con marks the con- of my job is interacting with students every Brian Swancutt
clusion of what day. Not being able to be with them and
Dhaval Bhakta
has been a diffi- support them in person has been difficult
cult semester. The for Ginny, Pam and I. Kassidy Tocco
COVID-19 pandemic Miranda Bass
Yet, I am continually amazed at their resil-
required us to shift ience. Despite the anxiety of the unknown, Samantha Kozelek
to online learning, our students continue to push forward. Tomide Oloruntobi
close the Honors Students are adjusting to the constant
Office and move all operations to remote changes and disruptions with grace. They
working conditions. Many of us in honors are demonstrating leadership in how they
struggle with ambiguity and the lack of approach their current responsibilities,
control. The past seven weeks have been strong critical thinking as they process the
full of both. Study abroad experiences constantly changing landscape of infor-
were cut short or cancelled altogether, mation we have about the pandemic and
research presentations shifted to virtual mature global citizenship in their ability to
events, and we had to cancel our annual see beyond the ways this crisis affects them
spring banquet during which we would as individuals. I have never been more
have celebrated our seniors and student proud of our students. They will persevere
accomplishments. We left for Spring Break through these unprecedented times and
not knowing this was the last time many of make their mark on this world.

In this Issue
Editor’s Note Miranda Bass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Jonathan Fjeld., ‘20 (Mass Media & Communication Studies, Twin Valley, MN)
Tomide Oloruntobi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
This semester’s new theme: Thinking of how we make our
Beacon began mark on history. In this edition, each story Making A Difference with Reading 4
with the goal will share the different ways that students Facing Uncertainty Together . . . . 5
of highlighting are able to leave a positive mark on history
“Zoom”-ing Into the Corral . . . . . . 5
the diversity of and the different ways that they are living
Honors and how through this time. As you’re reading these Three Graduates, Three Paths . . . . 6
our students are stories, I want you to think of how you’re Alexis Poetter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
converging upon living life in ways that reflect a positive
Honorable Mentions . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
the program from mark on history. Most importantly, I hope
all differing points you’re taking care and enjoy this edition! First in a New Generation . . . . . . . 9
in their college Thank you to our writers, who are really John Shrestha . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 10
career. As has happened for all of us the ones making this possible, especially Honors in Photos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
recently, however, plans changed greatly. our outgoing GA, Tomide, who has been a
The focus turned to thinking about how MavBuddies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
key part of Honors in his time and will be
we’re living in historic times where the greatly missed! A special thanks also goes Word Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
actions we make today will reflect upon to my co-editor and mentor, Emily, who
who we are as people long after we’re no gave me wonderful help in making this
longer living on this planet. This led to a Beacon the complete package you see.

2 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

 Tomide Oloruntobi: Traveling Beyond a Known Border
By Tomide Oloruntobi, ‘20 (M.A. Communication Studies; Ondo State, Nigeria)

I moved to the United States stereotypes and make it a learning experience for the host-inter-
as an international student in actant.
2018 with a lot of mixed feel- As a first-generation student, I have learned the values of
ings because it was the longest help-seeking from high school. I have also found how impactful it
and, perhaps, the most import- could be from mentees’ feedbacks. Hence, I knew it was a behav-
ant trip of my life. Being the ior I must maintain to have a better experience as a newcomer in
first person to make this kind any context. Complementing my help-seeking behavior is finding
of journey in my family, it was a mentor in the new environment. During my stay at Minnesota
more of a burden than a bless- State University, Mankato, I have had the opportunity to work with
ing to weather the ‘storms’ of people who were available to answer my questions. When I went
migration alone. Arriving here back to visit Nigeria in March, also, I had to find a person to fill
as a first-generation migrant student, I knew I had a lot of chal- this role no matter how short the visit was. Finding these people is
lenges ahead and I needed to figure out ways to conquer them important because they help you navigate the new context better
responsibly. In what follows, I am happy to share my experiences and ease your adjustment.
of adaptation in America and how, interestingly, I had to adapt to
my Nigerian culture; the place I call home. Hence, the experience My trip to Nigeria came with some challenges that made me un-
of migration made me rethink the concept of home since I see my- derstand that intercultural experiences are not unidirectional, in-
self belonging to multiple worlds, yet not fitting properly into one. stead they are multidirectional and multidimensional. Reentering
Nigeria registered me as an outsider in the place I called home.
Over time, I have found that as a newcomer a lot of things will call When I paid excess for my sim card retrieval but later found some-
you out in an environment. If your skin color does not call you out, one else who charged less for the same service, I realized it was
your accent as a cultural outsider would. If you are lucky that none not because I didn’t bargain well, it was because I had not accrued
of these calls you out, your limited cultural knowledge would. In enough contextual knowledge to re-assert my belongingness.
some cases, sadly, all of these could call you out and bring to your When somebody walked up to me and started a conversation that
face how different you are. I was in Menomonie, Wisconsin last was in the frame of what I knew about an immigration office in
spring, for instance, and I was sitting alone in a crowded lounge Lagos, it was synonymous with the warm gesture of the professor
area. A professor in his mid-50s walked up to me and started a at Menomonie. These experiences made me understand that be-
conversation. We got talking for another 30 minutes. After this in- ing a newcomer requires that you consciously decide to adjust and
teresting chat, I began to process why he came to speak with me. make your experiences learning points. In those moments when
I later discovered that we shared one thing in common: skin color. somebody mirrors you as someone who can’t operate a phone in
He noticed that I was alone and might need help. He helped. From Mankato or profiles you as someone he or she could take advan-
this interaction, I learned that there are a lot of arms that are open tage of in Lagos, it is a reminder that you still have much to learn
and willing to embrace you. You just have to make it comfortable about the environment. So, learn!
for them to do so.
The fun part of my travels is that I had the chance to meet great
I have also found that immigration lets you know more about people, to find new opportunities, and to reach my goals. In return,
yourself and your society –your society of origin. My nationality is I thrust myself to that continuous learning, not about knowing or
a constant character in how people view and communicate with questioning human nature, but to make sense of my place as a
me. As a matter of fact, someone once asked me where I came human living with other humans in a fun, complex, and chaotic
from and when she got her answer, she went on to ask: “And you world. Taking my journeys as learning experiences has helped me
can operate a phone?” Yes, it’s that bad that people will evaluate to understand and discover the opportunities around me. My ad-
your intellects and mirror you against your background. Hence, it vice to you is if you ever have a reason to travel, don’t look back,
is important that you find it convenient to know more about your leave! But don’t forget that there will be challenges at your next
place of origin and be ready to learn about people’s position on stop, and you will meet challenges at your current spot if you ever
your nation to sustain that conversation and tell them your side want to return.
of the story. As a matter of fact, doing so would place you above
Make a difference in the lives of those preparing to make a difference.

Because they have the opportunity to push themselves to do more here at

Minnesota State Mankato, students in the Honors Program will be ready to
push for success in the real world as well.

Supporting the Honors Program has an impact on students who will be-
come widely recognized, prominent, distinguished leaders, researchers and
global citizens who are able to bring about change in the world, no matter
what their chosen discipline may be.

Giving to the Honors Program is easy; simply visit mnsu.edu/giving and

designate your gift to the Honors Program.

3
(A Chaotic Journey Abroad, continued from page 1) Getting a flight home on such short notice and meeting my dad at the baggage claim
things to try, mainly with food, in order to was a nightmare and since I left on Satur- in O’Hare.
push my own boundaries.  day, the day after the new regulations were Now at home, I’m faced with the same chal-
put into place, I actually had to stay over- lenges as everyone else due to the Corona-
The challenge that had the most impact on night in Toronto, Canada because there
me, of course, was the issues that rose from virus, but without the extra worry of being
was such a backup with the U.S.’s customs. away from home. I’m spending an absurd
the spread of the Coronavirus. When I was Everyone that was flying in from a country
in Salamanca, there wasn’t a lot of concern amount of time with my family, making up
on watch for COVID-19 was placed in one for our time apart, and continuing my class-
because there weren’t many cases in Spain, crowded room. There were people around
especially not in Castilla and Leon, the es online. It was a little unnerving at first to
me that had been waiting for over three go from being the most independent I had
community in which Salamanca is housed hours to get tested and missed their flights.
in. However, when I moved to Madrid, the ever been to being constantly around my
While waiting, I ended up striking up con- family. It can feel a little difficult to connect
number of cases rose drastically and most versations with a handful of other college
of them were in the community of Madrid. with my family sometimes because I have
students. Finally, they announced that they these new experiences without them that
Rapidly, everything started closing around weren’t testing anyone else that day and
me in the city as the number of cases rose. have given me a sense of maturity, but
that everyone would be re-booked for a quarantine is taking care of that.
The show I was going to see was cancelled flight the next day and booked into a ho-
because of the limit on people gathering in tel for the night. After a poor night’s sleep If anyone would like to read a more de-
an area and my family had to cancel their in the hotel, I went back to the airport the tailed account of my time in Spain or trip
plans to come out and visit me. Finally, I next morning where it was a smooth pro- back, feel free to check out my blog at mi-
was told that I had to go home after the an- cess to get through customs. By early af- randastudyabroad2020.blogspot.com.
nouncement by the President to suspend ternoon on Sunday, I was back in the U.S.
travel to and from Europe.

Making a Difference with Reading

by Amber Chrischilles, ‘20 (Mass Media, Storm Lake, IA)

An integral part of every Learning Community at Minnesota State

University, Mankato, is the Make-a-Difference (MAD) service proj-
ects in which they choose to participate in. This year, the Honors
Launch and Emerging Leaders Honors Learning Communities vol-
unteered with the Greater Mankato Area United Way during their
Reading Festival in November. The Honors Launch Coordinator,
Kade Patterson, and I, the Emerging Leaders Coordinator, greatly
enjoyed working with the United Way and community members
during our project this year.
The Reading Festival is an annual event that has been hosted by
the United Way for the past six years, with the help of various spon-
sors such as the YMCA and Capstone, who donated books to give Another great aspect about participating in MAD projects is that
out. The goal of the event is to celebrate literacy and encourage students gain leadership experience which helps Honors students
reading among all ages. During the event there were activities for build their leadership competency. It was fun to be able to see stu-
children, healthy snacks, free children’s books, and literacy infor- dents interact with children and parents and be able to help them
mation for parents. This free event is a great way to promote litera- for an afternoon. A few of our students are education majors so I
cy in our community, but it also is a great opportunity for families know that they also enjoyed being able to interact with kids by
spent time together. playing games or coloring with them. I thought that the most re-
warding part of the day was seeing how grateful the United Way
Those of us who volunteered at the reading festival were there was for having us volunteer our time to help make sure their event
from the beginning of the event until the end. At the beginning ran smoothly.
we helped set up the event space by setting out books, organizing
booths, and putting up a welcome table. During the event students MAD projects are a great way to get students involved in the com-
were assigned different roles. Some helped welcome and sign in munity and give back. They also give students an opportunity to
visitors while others engaged in activities with children, helped bond as a group while they serve others, especially this year since
with the photo booth, handed out welcome bags, and gave chil- the two Honors Learning Communities chose to do their service
dren books. At the end we helped load things up and assist with projects as a whole group. My advice for students wanting to par-
cleaning. My favorite part of the event was helping to decorate the ticipate in similar projects is to just get out there and do it! There
area with dinosaur themed props and watching the children enjoy are so many great organizations and events in the Mankato area
dressing up like dinosaurs at the photo booth. Overall, it was a fun that would benefit from the time that you volunteer. As a college
event to not only get involved with the United Way but with many student life can get busy, but it is always worth it to spend time
community members. volunteering in your community.

4 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

Facing Uncertainty Together
by Kassidy Tocco, ‘21 (Special Education; Marshall, MN)

Our semester took a turn none of us were Since campus has closed, we have been me, it’s knowing when to ask for help and I
expecting. With the COVID-19 pandemic meeting weekly on Zoom to discuss the am grateful there are so many people in my
wreaking havoc on our routines and plans, coming year and to check in. We are hitting life, and hopefully yours as well, who will be
we all find ourselves in the same state: un- the ground running in preparation for next there when we call.
certainty. Similar to other institutions in the season. This not only provides us with some Ironically, our very long spring break has
state and across the country, Minnesota sort of normalcy but also a much needed actually served me well. While the circum-
State University, Mankato has transitioned opportunity to see each other. stances are not ideal of course, I made a
to online learning for the remainder of the The transition to online classes has been a personal decision to use this unstructured
semester and campus is closed. This abrupt difficult one. While the non-stop email up- time to rest, recharge, and take care of my-
transition has thrown me for a loop and I dates were at times overwhelming, it was self; something I often forget to do at the
am positive I am not the only one trying to incredible to me how many people were height of the semester. I might have an
find their footing during this time. working to help me and other MNSU stu- uncommon experience, but after the initial
For me personally, all of the parts in my dents. I don’t have enough fingers on my panic subsided, this is the most stable and
life have come to a halt. I am a member of hand to count the mentors, professors, ad- balanced I have felt all year.
the Speech and Debate team, and unfor- visors, and coaches who reached out. Not Of course, there is no right or wrong way to
tunately the last half our season has been only did they want to check in to see how I deal with these difficult times, but I think
canceled, just like so many other sports was doing, but they had a list of resources this is a pivotal moment for us as individ-
and activities. Being robbed of our nation- and services that were available to us if we uals and as a community. Amid the chaos
al tournaments has been devastating for needed them. and uncertainty, now is the time to take
our team; and even more so for our seniors Yes, this is a frustrating and scary time, but care of our minds and bodies. Now is the
who had no idea their last performance there is no doubt that there are people time to call your neighbor and check in.
would in fact be their last. One of the most supporting us from all over the communi- Now is the time to spread love and posi-
painful parts of all of this is that we didn’t ty, especially the Honors community. The tivity. Now will be the time when the true
get the opportunity for closure in our ac- Honors staff has helped me find several re- global citizens, researchers, and leaders
tivities. There was no last game, last perfor- sources, especially when my employment come to light. We have already been learn-
mance, last time to be with the people you was in question. I found myself without a ing how to connect with people different
care about. It was just over. Though, there is job once campus closed, like so many other from us. We have the skills to find the ac-
unity even in that. My team is hurting and students who worked on-campus. Thank- curate information and not feed into mass
healing together. Despite how disappoint- fully now we know that student workers panic. We know our leaders can set good
ing this situation is, there came a turning should be compensated for time off due examples for others. If there is anything the
point when competing wasn’t what we to COVID-19, which is a massive weight Honors Program has taught us, it is how to
were missing. We were missing each other. off my shoulders though I know this is still be a community. And it is as a community
And losing our national opportunity wasn’t a weight many others bear. If there is one that we will get through this, together.
as important as keeping each other well. thing that these difficult times have taught

“Zoom”-ing Into the Corral with Ferdinand

This semester is our fourth semester featuring Ferdinand- the Honors Program mascot and stress bull that accompanies students
and faculty on their adventures. Since the last corral with Ferdinand, our world has changed but Ferdinand is still everywhere! He
was able to make it to some of our staff meetings with Pam, Ginny and Leah.

If you have a Ferdy picture, feel free to show us! Upload it to Instagram and tag “@mnsuhonors” or email it to honors@mnsu.edu

5
From L to R: Kaitlyn Graning, Melanie Bengtson and Shamsudeen Adediji.

Three Honors Graduates: Three Different Paths

By Samantha Kozelek, ‘22 (Elementary Education; Waukesha, WI)

This article features an interview of three those who may not have been able to be- uate?
Honors program students who are gradu- fore. Adediji: One experience that has really
ating this spring semester as undergradu- Kozelek: What have you been involved in impacted me has been being a Learning
ates. The three students are Melanie Bengt- during your time on-campus? Community Coordinator. Working with
son, Kaitlyn Graning, and Shamsudeen students, I have been able to see the im-
Adediji. Adediji: I transferred from an international
university and arrived on-campus junior pact that I was making on them. I helped
Kozelek: What is your undergraduate ma- year, so I wanted to make the best out of students navigate campus, get settled in
jor? How did you decide on studying this? the time I had here. I got involved in stu- a new place, and see their potential. This
Why did you choose this path for your ed- dent government and an organization was a reflective moment for me, because I
ucation? from my home country, International Uni- had to go from not knowing this place as
Adediji: I am studying Management, Mar- versity of Grand Bassam. I started NABA, a new student to helping other students. I
keting, and Business Analytics. I knew I National Association of Black Accountants. learned to work hard, navigate resources,
wanted to manage and that I could do so. I As vice president of NABA, I wanted to in- and push myself so I could share with my
also knew I wanted to do something work- crease diversity in the College of Business. I learning community.
ing with people. I had other interests in de- was also part of the National Diversity Case Bengtson: As a Miracle League coach, I had
sign and sales, which is where marketing Conference as a junior and senior and was an athlete that struggled with confidence.
came in. With analytics, I liked to see how a finalist my second year. Every day, she would go straight to the
things work and how they are connected. Bengtson: I have been involved with Love dugout and refuse to play, despite the oth-
Bengtson: My major is Special Education. I Your Melon, The Miracle League, the Hock- er athletes encouraging her. I saw that she
chose to study this because I always knew ey Cheer Team, and the YMCA Brother/Sis- wanted to play but didn’t think she could.
that I wanted to be a teacher. Throughout ter Program since my freshman year. More After several weeks of spending time get-
my life, I felt a connection to people with recently, I coached an adaptive dance team ting to know her, I stood behind her and
disabilities. I genuinely enjoy getting to called Darby’s Dancers and was the secre- encouraged her to give it her best shot. As
know them and learning what makes them tary for the Honors Student Body. I was also she found herself succeeding while play-
unique. By becoming a Special Educator, I a Community Advisor my sophomore year. ing, I found her smiling and enjoying the
am able to be creative with my lessons in I have been in several clubs here and there, rest of the games. At this time, I realized I
a way that helps bring out each of my stu- such as LEAD 2.0, Dream Closet, and SPARK. was in the right career path.
dents’ unique talents, strengths, and inter- Graning: Freshman year, I was on Commu- Graning: One experience that was pivotal
ests. nity Council in my residence hall; I really to my undergraduate career was my field
Graning: My major is Recreation, Parks, admired the togetherness my floor had. I experience required through my major. I
and Leisure Services with an emphasis in was also involved in the IELI Language Part- volunteered in a long-term care facility in
Therapeutic Recreation. I found this major ners Program. Until my junior year, I was a the memory care unit and absolutely loved
through taking a career test. It was a ran- dance major/minor, so I participated in two it. I saw first-hand the impact recreation
dom, free test on Google that I decided dance concerts. This year, I am devoting all and leisure activities have on older adults
to take for fun. I did some research and my time to schoolwork, and embracing the with dementia, which fueled my purpose in
discovered it was the career for me. I find time I have left at MNSU. the therapeutic recreation field even more.
significant passion and joy serving others. Kozelek: Are there any pivotal experienc- Kozelek: How have the three Honors com-
I believe every individual has the right to es that have stood out or made the most petencies helped you grow as an under-
participate in recreation and leisure; there- impact during your time as an undergrad- graduate student?
fore, my goal is to create opportunities for

6 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

Adediji: I liked the way the competencies Spectrum Disorders. It was rewarding to
are divided. It helps students reflect and present and get some great feedback. This
see connections. For research, it’s in so was something I never thought I could ac-
many things you do and don’t always real- complish, but with Honors, was able to.
ize it. Research helps see value in the work Graning: I really enjoyed the Exploring Per-
you are doing. For leadership, it has helped sonal Leadership class with Ginny. It was an
me reflect on how I lead and analyze how I opportunity to do a lot of self-reflection on
can become a better leader. who I wanted to become as a leader. We
Bengtson: Personally, the competencies also got to do research and advocate for a
have helped me to be able to take my Melanie Bengtson with fellow Maverick Hockey particular social change of our choice. This
Cheer Team members
major beyond the classroom. Being in the class was super enlightening, and the les-
Honors Program, I have felt more of a drive sons I learned impacted my personal and
to get out into the community and apply professional growth.
what I have learned from my coursework. I Kozelek: What are some pieces of advice
also loved getting to complete undergrad- you can give to people who will be gradu-
uate research and creating something that ating after you?
is meaningful to me. It really helped me to
find a purpose in my coursework on days Adediji: I would say don’t overload your last
that it was difficult to. semester with too many credits. Your last
semester should be an opportunity to re-
Graning: The competencies gave me a rea- Kaitlyn Graning with fellow Recreation Parks
flect on your experience on campus. Make
son to stretch outside my comfort zone. If and Leisure Services program members.
sure you give yourself time to do that.
it wasn’t for the Honors Program, it’s likely
I would not have done as much as I did or Bengtson: Take advantage of the variety of
felt confident enough to do so. The com- opportunities available to you. I found my
petencies have steered me to be more niche early on, but it’s always beneficial to
well-rounded in my education. I discovered challenge yourself outside of your comfort
my personal strengths to become a better zone. The Honors Program is an amazing
leader. My original research led me to dis- space where you can have those difficult
cover inclusion was the area I want to build discussions that make you think. Embrace
my career in. The global citizenship com- it and participate in those discussions. Lis-
petency has led me to redefine what sep- Shamsudeen Adediji with fellow National Diversity ten to what others have to say. Additional-
arates one another: our cultures, lifestyles, Case Study Competition team members. ly, be intentional with your reflections!
decades we grow up in, etc. Bengtson: I think my most memorable mo- Graning: A piece of advice I have is to live
ment was recently, when my partner Sa- in the present. Rather than thinking so far
Kozelek: What is your most memorable mo-
mantha King and I completed our research ahead all the time, enjoy where you are
ment from your time in Honors?
project and presented at NCHC in New Or- now, and then your future will fall into
Adediji: I took an Honors seminar with Dr. leans. For me, research was the competen- place. Another piece of advice is to always
White called Performance and Social Jus- cy I was most unsure about. As an educa- ask questions. Once you graduate, you will
tice. In this class, we were with other peo- tion major, there aren’t too many projects not be able to easily ask your professors
ple. We discussed with each other and ex- readily available. We were able to get cre- something you do not know. You are in
posed ourselves to racial concepts, events ative and created an Art Therapy prompt school to learn everything you can that will
that shaped our history that I didn’t know book for elementary students with Autism prepare you for the working world.
affected me.
Honors student Alexis Poetter has a made her way to the Career Development
creative and unique Honors portfolio. This Center. There she was able to look into
May, she will graduate with a degree in several majors, but she couldn’t see herself
interdisciplinary studies. Interdisciplinary fitting into just one.
studies can be described as sort of a “build- Many students aren’t aware that
your-own-major”, where students can interdisciplinary studies is an option
choose to combine three different majors for them to major in. It opens so many
into one degree. Alexis chose to focus on different paths, allowing for a well-rounded
graphic design, marketing, and consumer education and more job opportunities.
studies, with a minor in writing. However, this major is one that requires
Alexis began her college education as a students to be self-motivated as they can
biology major. Throughout her freshman design their whole degree and choose
Alexis Poetter year, she decided that this path was
not something that interested her. Not
from a variety of classes.
By Samantha Kozelek, ‘22 With interdisciplinary studies, she was able
(Elementary Education; Waukesha WI) knowing where to go from there, Alexis Article continued on next page

7
Poetter, continued from previous page next and apply her studies to her work and
to pick a few different areas that interest- extracurriculars. Looking at her portfolio,
ed her. Alexis found that she was self-mo- many of her achievements that have built
tivated to take this path and enjoyed the her Honors competencies come from ex-
control she had. Her classes after making tracurriculars. For global citizenship, Alexis
this decision were a mix of finance courses, has interviewed students for news articles
graphic design, typography, print design, which has widened her perspective on
and marketing classes. different backgrounds. For leadership, she
Alexis has learned a lot between her ar- has been part of the Fashion and Photogra-
eas of focus and has found that her three phy Club, where she helps plan events and
disciplines mesh well together. She has weekly activities. Alexis’s internship has
been able to apply her knowledge to her also contributed to her leadership skills. It
internship with IT Solutions that focused has blended into her professional experi-
on marketing communication teams. Us- ence and allowed her to individually work
ing all the skills that she’s learned, Alexis with others in her field. She is learning con-
has built communication skills, made print fidence while leading her own projects.
materials and written articles during her For research she has utilized her creative
internship. writing minor and written original fictional
For Alexis, there weren’t too many chal- short stories. Her graphic design projects Poetter’s creative process is best detailed in sketches
lenges that came along, but there were have also shown how to use research in like this, which paints a laid-out picture of her work.

times where she felt like an outsider, as different ways, such as comparing a cre- designed it in a way that made the labels
she didn’t fit in with any one major. Alexis ative process to a science approach. Pro- fit for her. For example, research for her
infiltrated a few groups within her classes fessionally, research isn’t something she couldn’t be thought of as data being sci-
but didn’t feel like she fit into all of them. thinks about every day but while manag- entific in a lab, but rather how she sees re-
She felt like other students were able to ing new pages and gathering sources, she search.
connect with the other students within recognizes this is something she does nat-
Alexis shared some advice for students
their majors, something she couldn’t do, urally.
thinking about going down a similar path:
which was something that she was able Alexis’s portfolio has a unique structure to “If you feel like a major is not working for
to mentally overcome. Alexis could apply it. While creating her portfolio, she strug- you, don’t be scared to go talk to the Ca-
herself in various ways with her major. She gled with the competencies and under- reer Development Center. Explore your
was able to jump from one concept to the standing how they fit into boxes, so she options.”

Honorable Mentions
• Becca Peterson, Emma Gale, Olivia Thomas, Ikeogu, Hunter Herber, Jane Sakowicz, undergraduate research at the Minnesota
Oscar Lara Andrade, Kirsten Siebenga, Molly Olson, Marissa Swenson, Emily Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Shelby Hartmann, Emily Hoyt, Kaitlyn Bollendorf, Amber Chrischilles, Brian Convention.*
Graning, Jordan Bengtson, Maddison Swancutt, Ashley Schmitz, Shelby
• Emma Gale, Alexis Poetter, Annalisa
Hajek, Eryn Zuiker, Marissa Swenson, Alana Hartman, and Eryn Zuiker presented
Tostenson served as Executive Board
St. Cyr, Alexis Poetter, Ashley Schmitz, their research virtually at the 2020
members of Recognized Student
Nyadak Jock, and Shamsudeen Adediji Undergraduate Research Symposium*.
Organizations during the 2019-20
passed their Portfolio Defenses this Spring.
• Students who served as Community academic year.
• Annalisa Tostenson was a Junior Team Advisors for the2019-20 academic year:
• Brian Swancutt, Hunter Herber, Nina
Leader for the E-Fest Student Design Lizzie Putnam, Alana StCyr, Brian Swancutt,
Tulashie, and Afnan Husain were Honors
Competition Team, which was going to Dhaval Bhakta, Nina Tulashie.
Ambassadors for the 2019-20 academic
attend the semi-national conference and
• Eryn Zuiker was one of 60 students year.
robotics competition.*
selected to present research on Capitol Hill
• Mallory Steinmetz will be one of
• Abigail Larson was set to present her in Washington, DC but presented online
the Nursing Learning Community
research on end-of-life care at the MNRS instead.*
Coordinators for the 2020-21 academic
Conference in Schaumburg, Illinois, but
• Emily Schiltz, Emma Gale, Shayla year.
presented online instead.*
Schumacher, Srajan Jain, Becca Guss, Lizzie
• Serida Zosse was awarded an international
• Maureen Nghambi was voted on to her Putnam, and Mallory Steinmetz served on
students scholarship.
residence hall’s Community Council this the Honors Student Body Executive Year
semester. during the 2019-2020 academic year. • Ana Leyva (Outstanding Collegian),
Shamsudeen Adediji (Outstanding
• Jada Harley, Abigail Larson, Shayla • Becca Peterson, Eryn Zuiker, Dhaval
Collegian), Corrine Koffi (Commitment to
Schumacher, Makenzie Reed, Rebecca Bhakta, Lillie McDermott, and Olivia
Cultural Responsiveness), and Eryn Zuiker
Peterson, Shamsudeen Adediji, Olivia Thomas wereset to attend March’s National
(Big Ideas, Real World Thinking) received
Thomas, Emily Hoyt, Emily Schiltz, Alana Conference on Undergraduate Research*:
Minnesota State Mankato Student
StCyr, Emma Gale, Meaghan Keohane,
• Emma Gale was set to present her Activities Leadership Awards:
Kaitlyn Graning, Rebecca Guss, Nwando * denotes event was cancelled/modified due to COVID-19

8 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

Emma Grumke: First in a New Generation of Honors Students
by Brian Swancutt, ‘21 (Social Work; Rochester, MN)

GRUMKE: The biggest thing that the gram, it put me outside of my comfort
Honors Program did for me was give me zone, as I wasn’t able to research and
a broader perspective. Quite honestly, plan and look at what other people had
when I was looking at colleges and we’d done, because there wasn’t anyone to
be on campus, walking through all of the ask. This ended up being so good for me
booths with programs that the college because it allowed me to make my expe-
had to offer, I would walk straight past rience exactly what I wanted and need-
the study abroad booths. It just wasn’t ed it to be. I’m sure it is still true today,
something that I thought I would want to but there was an awesome crew of other
do. Fast forward a few years and I ended undergrads that I got to go through the
up doing my undergrad research project program with.
on the impacts of studying abroad and SWANCUTT: What are some of your favor-
spent the majority of my junior year sum- ite memories of the Honors Program?
This article features an interview with mer in France. None of that would have
Emma Grumke who, in December 2012, happened without the Honors Program, GRUMKE: Studying abroad for sure. Aside
became the first graduate of the current and I would not have the outlook that I from that, I think it was just the people.
version of our Honors Program. do today without those experiences. There was an awesome group of people
that I got to work with and there was a
During her time at Minnesota State The other thing that really helped me ton of support from faculty; enough sup-
Mankato, Grumke majored in account- was the amount of reflection that I did port to provide guidance, but enough
ing and played for the Mavericks soccer throughout my classes and overall expe- freedom that I felt like my future was
team, while also serving on the Student rience. I feel like I had the opportunity to completely in my hands.
Athlete Advisory Committee. She is orig- really think about my own perspective
inally from just outside of Madison, WI on certain matters, which has allowed SWANCUTT: What is it like coming back
and currently resides in Blaine, MN. me to be a little bit more reflective in all and seeing how things have changed?
SWANCUTT: What are you doing now ei- aspects of my life. I also feel like I had the GRUMKE: It’s awesome! Change is great,
ther academically or professionally? How opportunity to speak to larger groups especially just seeing how the program
did you get to this current position? when presenting research, which really has been able to develop and grow.
helped prep me for the conversations
GRUMKE: I am currently an audit manag- SWANCUTT: What advice do you have for
that I have on a daily basis as part of my
er at a public accounting firm called RSM. current Honors students?
current work.
I started with them in the fall of 2013, and GRUMKE: Make the experience exactly
I’ve been there ever since! SWANCUTT: Did your career goals/plans
what you need it to be and trust in the
change during undergrad?
SWANCUTT: What made you choose Min- fact that, at the end of the day, it will be.
nesota State University, Mankato for your GRUMKE: Surprisingly, no! I was planning I had a pretty strict schedule, between
undergraduate education? on majoring in accounting since high my normal course-load and practices/
school, and I stuck pretty close to that games/travel, and initially I struggled
GRUMKE: I really wanted to play soccer path. with fitting everything in. Dr. Corley was
after high school, so I researched my instrumental in helping me make every-
options. I liked that MNSU had a strong SWANCUTT: What was the Honors Pro-
gram like “back then?” thing work and empowering me to do
academic and athletic program that that. As soon as I voiced my thoughts and
fit what I was looking for. I ran into the GRUMKE: Great question, because I think opened the line of communication, I real-
soccer coach on several different occa- it was probably a lot different. I think the ized how many people I had on my team
sions and ended up being the perfect fit! biggest thing for me was that it was all that wanted me to succeed.
MNSU ended up being about four hours new, so there wasn’t a lot to go off of in
from home, which was drive-able, but terms of seeing what people had done
not something I would have wanted to before me, which ended up being a huge
do every weekend, so it ended up being blessing. I’m a very thoughtful person - I’ll
the perfect distance too. research, plan, research, plan, research,
SWANCUTT: How did being involved modify the plan a little, and by the time
with the Honors Program help to prepare that it is time to “do”, I feel like I have a
you to achieve your future academic or good baseline.
career goals? Being the first to go through the pro-
Grumke and her significant other, as pictured hiking.

9
John Shrestha: Life Behind the Lens
by Dhaval Bhakta, ‘21 (Marketing; Syadla, Gujarat, India)

sorts of events on campus. At these events, experiences have helped me understand

I met other students who worked as pho- new cultures and traditions.
tographers for The Reporter, which is how I With research, before going on assign-
began working for the paper as well. ment, I would do a little research about the
Bhakta: What were you hoping to gain background of the events. This helped me
from photography? to understand more about the people at-
Shrestha: In the beginning, it was just tending the event and event itself.
something for fun but as time passed, I With leadership, in photography, I take the
got attached to it and it started to become initiative to move forward and not hesitate
This interview was with John Shrestha, a a reason to spend time alone editing and pursuing what I am interested in. One of the
junior civil engineering student from the managing pictures. During my First Year qualities of leaders is to be passionate and
land of Everest, Nepal. Besides engineering, Experience class with Ginny Walters, we stay motivated on their goals, and photog-
Shrestha has a passion for photography and took a personality assessment. The results raphy has allowed me to encompass that.
won second place in the City of Mankato’s showed that I am an introvert person and I Bhakta: How has photography helped pre-
annual photo contest in 2019. think it’s true as I enjoy being myself. Pho- pare you to pursue your goals after gradu-
tography fit well with my personality. ation?
Dhaval Bhakta: How did you discover the
photo contest you entered? When was it? Once I really became interested in photog- Shrestha: After receiving my undergradu-
Why did you enter it? How did you feel raphy, I wanted to capture all the beautiful ate degree, I want to combine engineering
when you were given the award? moments in my life and tell my story to and photography in order to make positive
people from different languages and cul- changes in the community. As a career I
John Shrestha: One day, I got a text mes- tures without having a language barrier. I
sage on my Instagram account from a would like to work in transportation engi-
wanted to let the pictures speak for me and neering, and I think using my photography
friend which said, “Check this out” and had wanted to be able to do that for other peo-
a link. I opened it and it was about a pho- skills to document the construction and
ple too. progress of the projects will come in handy.
to contest hosted by the City of Mankato. I
decided to submit a photo for the compe- Bhakta: What have you learned from pho- Bhakta: How has photography allowed you
tition since I had been taking pictures for tography? to connect with people or organizations
a while. A couple of months later, I got an Shrestha: From photography, I have learned that can aid you in pursuing your goals?
email from the city with the final decision that friendship and networking both have Shrestha: While attending events around
from the City Council. One of the photos I important roles in order to improve skill the university for the photos as the assign-
took at the Mankato Area Internation Fes- and stay close to the photography profes- ments for the university newspaper, I was
tival, labelled “Diversity of Mankato” was sion. able to connect with people and organiza-
published on the website of City of Manka-
Bhakta: What were some challenges you tions of all kinds. I learned about different
to and awarded the third place “Award of
faced when you first started photography photography organizations that existed
Excellence” by the City Council.
and how did you overcome them? that would allow me to get more involved
Bhakta: How did you come across the pic- in the photographic world.
Shrestha: One of the biggest challenges
ture you decided to submit?
was the lack of equipment. I did not have Bhakta: What did you learn about photog-
Shrestha: During the International Festival, anything at the beginning. No camera, raphy while working for the university pa-
my role was to capture moments in photos no photo editing software and not even per?
for the University newspaper, The Reporter. a hard disk to store my photos. But once I Shrestha: Through working for the univer-
It wasn’t a planned assignment. I remem- started surrounding myself with photog- sity newspaper, I was able to understand
ber David Bassey, Editor-in-Chief for The raphers like me, those challenges seemed that as a photojournalist I need to act neu-
Reporter called me early in the morning on like nothing compare to the challenges my tral and control my emotions while on as-
April 7th, the day of the festival. I went to colleagues been through. signment. Along with that, photographers
the paper’s office to meet him, took a cam-
Bhakta: How has photography helped you really need to be patient with their work in
era and started my assignment.
to further the three honors competencies? order to capture the right moments.
Bhakta: Why did you decide to pursue pho-
Shrestha: While doing photography for What I have also learned so far is to keep
tography?
the university newspaper, I was able to ex- trying. You might not have the right equip-
Shrestha: In 2017 over summer break, my perience three honors competencies in a ment to start the journey, but you do have
roommate bought a brand-new camera. number of ways. With global citizenship, the opportunity to control your experience.
We started playing with it and I started I was able to meet people from various (Shrestha’s photography can be viewed in
feeling a connection to it. When we started backgrounds through different university this edition’s “Honors in Pictures”.)
classes in the fall, I took the camera to all events, like the International Festival. These

10 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

 Honors in Pictures

Some of the Honors Launch LC members with

quarantine creations and
Some of Kassidy Tocco’s LCC Kade Patterson at the United Way Reading
sy, including reading and
activities keeping her bu Festival, as a part of their MAD Project.
playing Bananagrams.

t Body (HSB) February’s ogram

onors Studen HSB even t was an NCHC Pr
ar y’s H an where we t was a Ho March’s HSB even gave
At Ja nu udents played learned h w-To Serie nel where stud en ts
am e N ig ht, a group of st na na gram s how to m ow to cro s Review Board pa e Bo ard vi sits
G : Ba ake TIk-To chet and ram. Th
in the Lounge o!) ks, among even input on the prog
iconic game go od ha t to other acti ev er y 4 ye ar s.
g makes for a vities. our campus once
(The game’s ba

rter, John Shrestha’s photograph highlighting the diversity

Photo taken by John Shrestha, for the MSU Repo of Mankato, a photo which won 2nd place in the City of
featuring the Homecoming court with some fellow Mankato’s annual photography contest in 2019.
CAs, including our own Lizzie Putnam.

11
 Honors in Pictures

Spain. , Spain.
Ferdinand in Sevilla, Ferdinand in Av
ila, Spain. Ferdinand in Segovia

Kiwanis Lights HS
B event from De
cember!
nors Cabin from Fall... ...and Lake Ferd
Throwback to the Ho y at the cabin.

Thinking very in y
s from Fall tently about thei dents made their wa
ur Ju ni or H onors Marshal ies. during our Fall HS r creations A group of Honors stu ma ny de sti-
O
ent ceremon B painting even , one of the
Commencem t... to Insomnia Cookies ng Ra ce even t.
B Am azi
nations of our Fall HS

12 Issue XVII, Spring 2020

Forming Connections Fall 2020 Courses
One Buddy at a Time An Exploration of Yoga: A Journey of
by Kassidy Tocco, ‘21 (Special Education; Marshall, MN)
Discovery (HONR 401),
This article features an interview with outgo- Carly Hopper
ing Language Partners Coordinator Adriana This course will introduce students
Castelo about the program and its transition
to the various limbs of yoga. Stu-
to the MavBuddies name.
dents will explore the philosophy of
TOCCO: What is the Language Partners Pro- yoga as it relates to different types
gram? How does it work? of issues around the globe, both
CASTELO: The Language Partners Program Honors Student Finley Alexander with her MavBuddy, past and present. Students will also
was created to facilitate our Intensive En- Poorna. develop self-awareness of how yoga
glish Program (IEP) students’ understanding Minnesota and the resources Minnesota can serve as a personal journey for
of American culture and college life as well State University, Mankato has to offer. Many themselves.
as to assist them with extra language prac- of our students go to sporting events on
tice. The tutoring sessions begin from the campus, go ice skating, get lunch together Populism, Globalism and Citizenship
third week and continue until the 15th week or explore the Twin Cities if they decide to in the 21st Century (HONR 401),
of the semester. During these sessions that hold their sessions during the weekend. The
take place outside of class time, each IEP stu-
Dr. Josh Birkenpas
Center for English Language Programs also
dent is scheduled to meet with a Language This course will look into how pop-
organizes one event per month where all
Partner for 1 hour twice a week. ulism, globalism and citizenship are
the MavBuddies and international students
in our program get together to participate in interconnected in the 21st century.
The Language Partners are students from
fun activities like movie nights, world trivia Students will look at the role that
the Honors Program at Minnesota State Uni-
versity, Mankato as well as other domestic and potlucks. the citizen has in a global world and
students who volunteer to facilitate the tu- the concept of democratic self-gov-
TOCCO: How do you believe the program
toring sessions. These sessions have proven ernance in a global society.
is furthering global citizenship, leadership,
to be very helpful for all the IEP students. and research?
Sensitivity to Disability (REHB110W),
TOCCO: What was the idea behind the name CASTELO: Our former MavBuddies are the
change to MavBuddies? Is there anything Maurita Christensen
best example of how meaningful this expe-
different about the program now being un- This course will focus on acquiring
rience can be for a college student. Because
der the new name “MavBuddies”? an enhanced sensitivity to the ex-
of the Language Partners Program, many
of our domestic students have decided to perience of disability by increasing
CASTELO: This year we decided to try a new
study abroad, learn a new language or par- awareness of the individual and the
name for it to match our school’s spirit and
make it easier for students to remember us. ticipate in research projects that involve environmental factors that impact a
cross cultural interactions. Our students in person possessing a disability.
We have made a few changes to the pro-
IEP look forward to their weekly meeting
gram such as organizing events that bring
with their buddies, since they are not only Developing Your Mentor Philosophy
our domestic and IEP students together like
their friends but also mentors, true leaders (HONR 401),
movies, trivia and game night and a potluck
and ambassadors of their Minnesota culture. Dr. Leah White
towards the end of each semester.
TOCCO: What are the benefits of being in- This course will allow students to
TOCCO: What are some goals in mind for the investigate leadership styles and
volved?
program?
CASTELO: Students who join the MavBud- methods as a means of guiding the
CASTELO: The language partners assist IEP development of each student’s per-
dies program get to experience new lan-
students with cultural adaptation to U.S. sonal mentor philosophy to become
guages and cultures, be cultural ambas-
and American university culture, answer more comfortable in a mentor role.
sadors to international students, make
questions regarding campus services, and
long-lasting friendships from around the
provide guidance in accessing social and
world, improve their communication and
academic support systems on campus. The
networking skills, and build leadership skills
Language Partners encourage the IEP stu- Full course descriptions can be
to help them boost their resume.
dents to exchange information about their found at: http://www.mnsu.edu/
culture through conversations on cross-cul- This summer, the MavBuddies program will honors/20202021courseshtml.html
tural topics. be doing an eight-week program between
June 1 and July 24 where language partners
TOCCO: What experiences are there to be
will meet with each other online via Zoom.
had?
To learn more about the program, contact
CASTELO: Students will meet with their incoming Program Coordinator Matthias
buddy twice a week and go through some Sadusky at Matthias.sadusky@mnsu.edu or
optional guided activities provided by us. Academic Director Olga Nelson at olga.nel-
Students also have the option to explore son@mnsu.edu.

13
 Honors Fun Corner: Word Search
by Jonathan Fjeld, ‘21

Clues:
1. In what city did Miranda stay at a
hotel in while U.S. Customs was backed
up on her way home from Spain?

2. Fill in the blank: The learning commu-

nities’ MAD project in November was
volunteering at a _______ festival.

3. Our graduate assistant Tomide is from

what country?

4. What was Emma Grumke’s major in

while at Minnesota State Mankato?

5. What is the acronym of the firm Grum-

ke currently works for?

6. Name the major that Alexis originally

did when she came to Mankato.

7. John Shrestha has done photography

for what MSU newspaper?

8. How are Kassidy and her fellow

Speech & Debate teammates communi-
cating to keep in-touch with each other
and prepare for next season?

9. Which summertime baseball/softball

league does Melanie coach for?

10. Beginning with the 2019-20 school,

the English Language Partners Program
is now being known by what name?

A member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System and an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity University. This document is available in alternative
format to individuals with disabilities by calling the Honors Program at 507-389-5191 (V), 800-627-3529 or 711 (MRS/TTY). HNRS26NE

14 Issue XVII, Spring 2020