It’s time to meet Anna, a sophomore preparing to be a dentist. Anna is majoring in health science, a versatile degree that prepares students for various careers in the health field. From dentist to doctor to veterinarian VCSU’s health science degree is affordable and tailored to help students get admitted to the professional program of their choice. You’re up, Anna. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, growing up in a small town, I was always surrounded by support and a strong sense of community. So when it came time for me to choose a college, I wanted somewhere that felt just like that, but also gave me opportunities to grow. Luckily, I found both right here at Valley City State University. The health science program here is incredibly flexible. Whether you wanna go into dentistry, physical therapy, or become a doctor, you can tailor your path to your career goals. The professors here genuinely care about your success and create a learning environment where you feel valued. Beyond academics, I found a second home with the VCSU track team as their manager and photographer. Actually, that’s what inspired me to take up my minor in digital design. I realized how much I love telling stories through my photography. Between the classroom and the camera, I’ve been able to grow both my skills and my friendships. Coming out of high school, I applied for and received VCSU’s McCready Scholarship. It’s awarded to a select group of students each year and is one of the largest scholarships in the region. With VSCU’s scholarship program, I don’t have to worry about the financial side of college, which is huge when you have four years of undergrad and four years of dental school ahead. That support has given me the freedom to fully dive into my studies, be active in clubs, and truly enjoy my college experience. VCSU isn’t just preparing me for dental school. It’s shaping who I am right now. I’m gaining the confidence to chase big goals, the creativity to tell stories through my photography, and a network of people who feel like a family. Every class, every project, and every friendship is building my foundation. And the best part is, I’m just getting started. Back to you, Alex.
– Amazing work, Anna. And best of luck at dental school. VCSU is annually recognized as having one of the top scholarship programs in the region. The university awards nearly $2 million in scholarships each year, and about 87% of incoming freshmen receive an academic scholarship. Incredible. Thanks again, Anna.
Okay, everyone, let’s catch up with Emma, a senior majoring in elementary education. Emma always knew she wanted to be a teacher and will be the four generation of teachers in her family. VSCU’s elementary education program was recently ranked number one in the country, so Emma knew she had to check out VCSU. The floor’s yours, Emma. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, I’ve always loved working with kids, whether it was coaching T-Ball, serving as a BIO Girls mentor, or even teaching swimming lessons. I’ve known for a long time that I’ve wanted to become an elementary teacher, and Valley City State University has one of the top education schools in the country, so of course I had to check it out. During my campus tour, the people, the university, and the education program just felt right. It was like the place that I needed to be. I’m proud to say I’ll be a fourth-generation educator in my family. My aunt, my uncle, and even my cousin all graduated from VCSU. My cousin even had some of the same professors that I have today. My younger sister is also here studying elementary education. I’ve had great experiences here, whether it was practicum hours in a real life classroom or working with professors who really do care about you. I’ve experienced many different learning styles and curriculums, which will help prepare me to lead my own classroom one day. One of my favorite things about the VCSU elementary ed program is all the real-world experiences. Students in this program get the chance to be a paid substitute teacher. It begins with a subbing partner to gain confidence. Then this leads into you running a real classroom as a teacher in charge. VCSU has recently finished a complete remodel of the education building, McCarthy Hall. The modern spaces and new technology have made this a fantastic place for future teachers to learn and reinforce VCSU’s reputation as a leader in teacher education. While I’m ready to become a teacher, I know I’m gonna miss it here. Whether it was sledding down Snoey Hill on one of our snow days or meeting my lifelong friends and teacher besties, my time here has been fantastic. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Emma. It’s obvious you leave VCSU ready to lead your own elementary classroom. With required real-world experiences like subbing and student teaching, VCSU’s nationally-ranked education program is full of success stories like Emma, who leave prepared to make a difference as teachers. Good luck, Emma. We’re all rooting for you.
Introducing Ethan, a junior studying fisheries and wildlife. Ethan’s story is all about fishing and the outdoors. He loved it as a kid and still loves it today. With hands-on experiences and summer jobs in the field, VCSU’s Fisheries program is preparing Ethan to turn his passion into a career. Throwing it over to you, Ethan.
– Hey-O. Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Growing up, I never missed an opportunity to go fishing, which made VCSU’s Fisheries and Wildlife Program a perfect fit for me. I’m taking my passion and making it into my career. This program is the best place to get hands-on experience in a variety of environments. You can choose the focus in fisheries, wildlife, or conservation law enforcement, and many students mix and match to build even more skills. With all the class options and field experience opportunities, It has been one of the best choices for my career. I’ve been able to collaborate with departments like the North Dakota Game and Fish, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, and various fisheries between the two states. This summer, I spent time working for the VCSU Macro-Invertebrate Lab. I conducted aquatic macro-invertebrate and freshwater mussel surveys and assisted with outdoor camps for area youth. I’m also part of the Fisheries Club, where we share fishing tips, learn new fishing techniques, and discover new facts about fish and fishing. We even had some fun practicing out to back of a boat. The on-campus river access, nearby lakes, and state lands provide numerous opportunities to prepare me for a future career outdoors. From electrofishing smallmouth and musky to tagging sturgeon and walleye, to casting lines with friends on private lakes, I’ve had a blast turning my hobby into my profession. And it’s always a bonus when we catch the big one. Even on the water, I’ve learned the importance of professionalism, communication, and taking every opportunity that comes my way. Well, Alex, the fish are biting, so casting it back to you.
– Thank you, Ethan. We are so glad you found a school and a program that matches your passion and aspirations. The Fisheries and Wildlife Program at VCSU prepare students for a wide range of jobs in the outdoors, including careers as wildlife biologists, fisheries technicians, and game wardens. Thank you for sharing your story, Ethan. That was fantastic.
Let’s hear from Hanna, a senior who plays on the Viking volleyball team while double-majoring in communications and digital design. Hanna’s story started with strong family ties to VCSU, making it feel like home. Choosing VCSU has created opportunities for Hanna, including a hands-on internship with a local development corporation where she has impacted the community in numerous ways. Share your story, Hanna. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex, choosing Valley City State University was a no-brainer for me. Coming into college, I wasn’t entirely sure what I wanted to study as I had a lot of different interests. What stood out about VCSU was how everyone here took the time to help me find my path. With strong family ties to this place, it just felt like home. VCSU has opened doors for me beyond academics, I’ve had the chance to be a part of an athletic team, join clubs, and land an internship with the Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation. It’s been a great way to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. It’s also given me the chance to give back to the community. I’m now on the Summer Nights on Central committee where we organize events with live music, food, and activities that bring people of all ages together downtown. One of my proudest moments was helping create a mural in the city as a way to add more life and color to the community. What’s special about VCSU is it’s more than just a school. It’s where I found myself. As a third-generation student here, I’ve always felt connected. My grandma worked here for 22 years, and my aunts and uncles all attended and graduated from VCSU. It’s a family tradition, and I’m proud to be continuing it. VCSU has given me the confidence to take on new opportunities and the clarity to understand both my goals and the person I want to become. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Great work, Hanna. It’s inspiring to hear how your time at VCSU has given you confidence and shaped your future. VCSU has strong connections with numerous businesses and organizations in the Valley City region, creating opportunities for impactful student internships. Best wishes, Hanna. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Steven, a hydrology student who’s using STEM to inspire and educate others through advocacy and outreach. Whether he’s maintaining weather stations, leading youth education at River Honoring, or teaching with the Stream Table, Stephen turned science into service. And SKC is the only tribal college in the U.S. that offers a bachelor’s degree in earth or geoscience. Steven, you are up.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. Hello everyone. When I was deciding to return to school, I wanted to attend a college that offered hands-on scientific learning opportunities while allowing me to balance my responsibilities outside the classroom. Salish Kootenai College was the first school that came to mind, and it has delivered. I chose to study geosciences, focusing on hydrology, the study of water. It’s one of the few undergraduate programs of its kind in the nation, as it’s the only geo or earth science program at any tribal college or university. During my time in the hydrology program, I’ve worked as a lab technician, measuring data on the stream table, the flume, and even in local streams. This hands-on learning is what sets SKC apart. I love the ability to take what I’m learning and apply it to restoration and watershed-level projects. SKC is one of two colleges in the Balloon Outreach Research Exploration and Landscape Imaging System Program, also known as BOREALIS. I had the honor of leading our team in the nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project, letting me apply my knowledge in real-world situations. For my next project, I’m excited to do fieldwork in Glacier National Park. I experience hands-on learning opportunities inside the classroom as well, and SKC’s flexible class schedules allow me to mix in-person and online learning so I can balance my home and work obligations. The smaller class sizes make a huge difference in my experience, as I can connect one-on-one with my professors who support me in my strengths and show me areas for growth. Overall, SKC’s supportive faculty, flexible classes, and focus on real-world learning have boosted my confidence and made my education rewarding. I’ve grown not only as a student but as a future professional in my area. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Steven. Your story is a true testament to how SKC students give back to their communities. From leading national science teams to hands-on fieldwork, SKC empowers students with flexible learning, supportive faculty, and real-world opportunities. With all your experience, there’s no doubt your future is very, very bright. Thanks again, Steven.
Let’s meet Ely, a recent SKC alum, dedicated educator, and proud member of the White Mountain Apache Tribe. Ely began her journey at SKC side by side with her husband, focusing both on raising a family and building a future. Now working at the local Boys & Girls Club, she’s using her passion to uplift youth in her community. The floor is all yours, Ely.
– Thanks, Alex. My journey began at Salish Kootenai College in the Early Childhood Education P-3 program as a non-traditional student. Today, I work for the local Boys & Girls Club, a path I never would’ve imagined possible without the foundations I built at SKC. I’m honored to share what this place means to me. SKC didn’t just support me, it supported my whole family. I attended college alongside my husband, who earned his bachelor’s in hydrology and is finishing his master’s degree in Natural Resources Management while working for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Natural Resources Department. Together, we raised our two children while pursuing our degrees, and through it all, SKC stood beside us. The early learning center on campus was a gift. It gave our children a safe space to grow while we focused on building our future. Having them nearby gave us the strength to keep going, even on the hardest days. Some of our most treasured memories are of family time in the library, each of us working on homework together. At SKC, we weren’t just earning degrees. We were growing as a family. What sets SKC apart is its heart. The education department offers six programs that shape educators who lead with compassion, culture, and purpose. Classes are small, relationships are deep, and learning is hands-on. Thanks to grant initiatives, kids across the reservation experience STEM through things like drone flying and mechanical programming. As the Director of Operations at the Boys & Girls Club, I oversee student engagement, which is uplifted by SKC and advances STEM identities for our rural kids who would otherwise not have such opportunities. At SKC, you’re part of a community that believes in you and walks with you every step of the way. Throwing it back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Ely. Your story shows how SKC supports families, strengthens communities, and prepares community advocates, all without the heavy burden of debt. Compared to other colleges nationwide, SKC students graduate with significantly less debt. You’re living proof of the impact that kind of opportunity can make. Thanks again, Ely.
Let’s hear from Madelyn, a proud Dine student who’s pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing at SKC, which is one of a few direct-admit BSN programs in Montana. Using her voice for positive change, Madelyn is on a journey to reclaim her identity and build confidence, all while preparing for a career in healthcare. Tell us all about it, Madelyn. Take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I chose Salish Kootenai College for its direct-admit Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. The BSN prepares students for nursing careers through coursework in theory, clinical practice, health sciences, and liberal arts. Program graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed registered nurses. More than anything, SKC has given me a strong sense of belonging. When I first arrived here, I struggled with not feeling Native enough, but culturally centered classes helped me connect deeply with my identity and culture. In hide tanning class, we learned how to prepare and preserve animal hides using hand tools. This hands-on experience brought the curriculum to life and showed me the value of tradition. Not to mention, SKC has state-of-the-art facilities like high-fidelity simulators in the new Valley Health Sciences building. We can safely practice listening to normal and abnormal lung and heart sounds, pulses, and pupil response in an environment that encourages growth and curiosity. SKC is one of the few tribal colleges that has on-campus housing, which gives me easy access to important student resources. The writing center helps me improve my papers and build confidence in writing. With tutoring programs, technology help desks, and career advising, I feel prepared for a life after graduation. SKC also has a food pantry that supports students facing unexpected challenges. There’s even a dental clinic and counseling services to encourage physical and mental health. When I need a break, there’s amazing water sports at Flathead Lake. Paddleboarding is my favorite. The area has beautiful campsites and hiking trails with stunning mountain views that create the perfect balance between academics and nature. At SKC, attending college isn’t just about earning a degree. It’s about affirming my identity, claiming my space, and harnessing my potential to create positive change. That’s my story. All yours, Alex.
– Madelyn, thank you for sharing your story of resilience, growth, and identity. From high-fidelity simulation labs to cultural courses and supportive resources, your experience captures what makes SKC so special. We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make in nursing and beyond. Thanks again, Madelyn.
Let’s all welcome Ali, an enrolled member of the Blackfeet Tribe and a proud descendant of the Pend d’Oreilles. Her work blends traditional and modern art forms to honor culture, identity, and community. Through SKC’s empowering environment, she’s been able to explore her own heritage and connect with others. Take it away, Ali.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Art has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve always used art to express myself and to connect with my culture. My family has been a huge inspiration for me, especially since both of them are pursuing their associate degrees. Their dedication has inspired me to come to SKC and to pursue my own passion. Moving from a non-Native dominant school to SKC has profoundly impacted my mental health. Here, diversity and Native American perspectives are valued, creating an environment where open discussions with fellow students are exciting. I feel supported and empowered in this community. My work is deeply connected to cultural arts, honoring our traditions while reclaiming cultural identity. Family values are at the heart of what I create. I engage in basket weaving and seamstress work, creating regalia like jingle dresses, which are worn at ceremonial powwows. I also do beadwork, which means a lot to me because my grandmother teaches the beadwork classes here. Experiences like this strengthen my connection to our heritage. With the support of SKC, I developed my personal website as an entrepreneurial venture, which now provides financial support for my artistic pursuits. I also donate a hundred percent of the proceeds from select pieces to Safe Harbor, a program supporting survivors of domestic abuse, and Girls on Shred, a female and non-binary skate collective. This year has been incredible. I received a Native artist award and will showcase my work at a regional folk festival. For me, art is about blending tradition with my own voice and experience. My capstone project isn’t just about finishing school. It’s about making space for future Native artists to step forward. I’m proud to be a part of this vibrant community and I’m excited for what lies ahead. Back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Ali. It’s incredible how you’ve chosen to blend honoring tradition while being a shining light for the community. We love that you get to follow your passion surrounded by your family at SKC, and we can’t wait to see where your bright future takes you. We’re all wishing you the best of luck, Ali. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Jake, a descendant of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, who has found both community and opportunity at SKC. His story is about his unique experiences, honing his leadership skills, and connecting to his Native roots, all while pursuing his academic goals in the master’s program of Natural Resources Management. Here at SKC, Jake is able to combine culture with passion. Tell us all about it, Jake.
– Thanks, Alex. Salish Kootenai College was the right choice for me because it offered a way for me to connect to my Native roots and achieve my academic goals at the same time. I’m blessed to be here at SKC. I’ve had opportunities that have shaped me as an academic, a leader, and as a Native. With grant-funded programs and career services, SKC offers access to scholarships and internships with unique experiences I wouldn’t have found elsewhere. Last summer, I had the opportunity to take part in an internship with the Geronimo Hotshots in San Carlos, Arizona. This experience not only taught me firefighting skills, but it also showed me effective leadership, organizational skills, and paramilitary structure. It was a great experience that I’ll never forget. I also had another internship that involved touring the Montana Tribal Colleges. We participated in listening sessions about work-based learning and career service opportunities. SKC ensured my internships were tailored to the experience I wanted. As a forestry student, I’m able to engage in hands-on learning just minutes from campus. As part of my classes, we go out and measure diameter, base height, and core trees. The forestry program here is one of few in the country that emphasizes the relationship between the forest, tribal sovereignty, and cultural preservation. SKC has been a community and a home for me in more than just an academic way. I’ve been blessed to be a part of this community and the opportunities available here, which helped me grow in my leadership capacities. What’s next? I’m entering the master’s program for Natural Resource Management at SKC. It’s truly a place that provides a home for long-term learning. That’s me. Back to you, Alex.
– Jake, what an exciting journey. Your story reflects SKC’s commitment to hands-on opportunities with lifelong support. With graduate programs in Natural Resource Management, Life Sciences, and Education, SKC offers many diverse paths for growth. We look forward to your continued success in your master’s program and beyond. Best wishes, Jake.
Let’s meet Lucas, a high school senior and college sophomore who took an unconventional route to higher education by starting college courses while being homeschooled. Lucas is a double major, a chess competitor, and a national American Indian Higher Education Consortium champion. His story is proof that success is defined by perseverance, not convention. Lucas, take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. When I was younger, I was never motivated to learn new skills or even think about my future. I attended public school until fifth grade, then was homeschooled. In 11th grade, I took the bold step to enroll in early college courses at Salish Kootenai College. At first, I wasn’t sure which path to take. With my advisor’s guidance, I decided to double major in pre-engineering and an associate of science. That’s when I found my passion for technology. I do 3D printing and design, which is cool because I can design and print anything I want, like wall hangers and 3D models, as well as other things I can’t find online. I also enjoy taking videos and photos with my drone, which you can get a commercial license for at SKC. Recently, I even helped film a project on campus that highlighted skills, remote learning, effective communication, and time management, which are all very important to us here at SKC. After finishing college finals, I’ve completed my high school equivalency test and will also graduate with two degrees. So basically, I’ll be graduating high school and college in the same week, proving there isn’t just one right path to success. SKC’s academic guidance helped me a lot along the way. I’ve had opportunities I never imagined, like competing for two years at the American Indian Higher Education Consortium Student Conference, where I placed first and second in the science bowl. I also had the opportunity to compete against a grandmaster in chess, finishing second, which was an unforgettable experience. SKC’s commitment to personal and academic growth helped me gain confidence, knowledge, and real-world experience, all while being homeschooled. Next, I plan to study electrical engineering, following in my grandpa’s footsteps. Even if you’re searching for direction, SKC proves that with the right support, anything is possible. Back to you, Alex.
– Lucas, your story really shows how SKC helps students discover their full potential. Here, students are encouraged to forge new pathways and pursue bold goals. We’re excited to see you expand your skills and how you’ll continue to push barriers as an electrical engineer. Thanks again, Lucas.