Academic Programs with Abby

Transcript

It’s time to check in with Abby, a senior majoring in computer information systems. Abby came to VCSU as an undecided student, but soon found her passion. With VCSU’s student-to-faculty ratio of 11:1, Abby has excelled with the small class sizes and one-on-one instruction from her professors. Over to you, Abby.

– Hey, Alex, I’ve lived in small towns all across North Dakota, so finding a place that felt like home was really important to me. When I got to Valley City State University, I knew this was it. Even though I didn’t immediately know what I wanted to major in, the campus felt right. VCSU offers 65 different areas of study, which made it the perfect place to explore my options. I came in undecided, but during new student orientation, something clicked. I switched my major to computer information systems right then and there. Since that day, I’ve been diving into cybersecurity. And with the help from my professors, I found my love for ethical hacking. The small class sizes of 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio have been such a game-changer. I’ve gotten so much one-on-one support. My dream is to work in the cybersecurity department in the state capitol, and everything I’ve done on campus has helped prepare me. I currently work in tech services and am a member of the Association for Computing Machinery, where students in this department can collaborate, problem-solve, and grow together. Outside of academics, I’m all in at VCSU. I’m the recreational coordinator for our Viking Campus Activities board. I play on intramural football and volleyball teams and three city league volleyball teams. I’m also involved in Viking Catholic and Drama Club, and I help lead new student orientation for incoming freshmen. VCSU has helped grow me into who I am today. From switching majors on day one to now chasing a future in cybersecurity, I found my people and my passion. This campus really is one big Viking family, and I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of it. Back to you, Alex.

– Thank you, Abby. We can’t wait to see what you accomplish in cybersecurity. VCSU offers more than 65 academic programs, allowing students like Abby the flexibility to find a major they’re truly passionate about. Good luck, Abby, and thanks again.