AccessSuccess Questionaire

As part of every AccessSuccess newsletter, we invite scholars from all three programs to submit answers to a questionnaire modeled on the famous Proust Questionnaire.

With only only seven questions, scholars have the opportunity to learn so much about their fellow scholars and program staff.

Are you a Montana’s Own, 1893, or Return-to-Learn scholar and haven’t filled out the Questionnaire yet? Submit it Today!

Meet the Program Staff 

Monica Hall | Program Manager
Montana's Own & 1893 Scholars Programs

What is the most important reason you decided to work at MSU? I arrived at MSU in 2020 as a research associate in an infectious disease lab where one of my primary roles was to mentor students. After several years I realized the most fulfilling part of my job was working with students. This is why I am at ACYSS!
What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured things are family, friends, my Norwegian Forest cat Emmie, and my orchid collection.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I would work more on my alpine ski racing skills and compete in races all around the globe.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? I love bison, so I think Ted Turner is awesome for having bison on his Flying D Ranch. I drive through his ranch for my bison fix when I can’t make it to Yellowstone National Park. Petting a Bison is on my bucket list, but the circumstances would need to be safe and sanctioned!
What is your current state of mind? I am too excited for my new role at ACYSS and I can’t wait to meet all the students! Deb probably needs to tell me to calm down!
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Be productively stupid. If we don't feel dumb it likely means we're not trying hard enough to learn new things because it’s easier to stay in the comfort zone. The unknown isn’t just vast, it’s infinite; realizing that can be liberating. Seek out opportunities to feel dumb rather than having all the answers. Aim to be comfortable with it. This will help you identify your knowledge gaps and where you need to invest more in learning to achieve your goals!
What is your motto? I have two: "Science (Life) is too hard not to help!" and "Things will work out, they always do!"

Jen White-Dobbs | Program Manager
Return-to-Learn | Scholars Program

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I started working at MSU 4 1/2 years ago after our family moved to Bozeman from Connecticut. I chose to work in AYCSS because it allowed me to use my museum education background in new ways. 
What is your most treasured possession? I have a lot of art and furniture from my Grandma’s house. They all have family connections and have been a part of my family and its history for a very long time. I don’t know which I would pick as most treasured.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I would travel. I love to travel and my family has had a lot offun on our “family adventures.” But, working full time and raising two kids makes it hard. If I could take my family on adventures and explorationsaround the world that would be amazing. WhatMontanan do you most identify with? Not having grown up in Montana and not currently working in the MT history field I don’t have a lotof information to pull from for this question.
Whatis your current state of mind? I am excited for the new semester and looking forward to meeting our scholars. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Don’t be afraid to challenge your comfort zone. Take a class in a subject you aren’t familiar with, join a club even if you don’t know anyone, andmost important -don’t be afraid to ask for help!
What is your motto? Celebrate small successes and try to find something good in every day. 

Nikki Rust | Program Manager
Montanas Own & 1893 Scholars Program

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I wanted to be the first person in my family to graduate from college.
What is your most treasured possession? Tie between my wedding ring and my grandma’s turquoise ring.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I would be a world traveler. 
What Montanan do you most identify with? D.G. House
What is your current state of mind? I feel hopeful for new opportunities and adventures.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Stay the course, be all in.
What is your motto? Dress up, show up, and do your best. 

Deb Albin |Associate DIrector
Adult Education, Success, and Access Programs 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I was working at MSU and decided to take some classes with my fee waiver.Fast-forward many years and I now have both a bachelors and masters degree from MSU and $0 student debt!
What is your most treasured possession? My tiny, 18’x18’ fenced backyard. In summer it fills with flowers, birds, butterflies, and bumblebees.And BB the Cat (pictured above) has her very own catnip patch.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I’d live in the south of France and learn to paint in the style ofVincent Van Gogh.
What Montanan do you most identify with? I’m not sure I identify with them because they are far more impressive and inspirational than I canever hope to be, but I am in awe of the group of young people who sued the State of Montanaover its lack of attention to our climate crisis – andwon!
What is your current state of mind? Trying to focus my brain that’s going in a million different directions.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Don’t be just a student of your courses, be a student of the many worldsaround you.
What is your motto? Cultivate Serendipity. 

Meet the Scholars 

Eran Heleana Boelke 
Paleontology & Anthropology 
Return-to-Learn Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? My academic advisor is amazing, and the staff and services at Disability Services and the Testing Center are top-notch. 
What is your most treasured possession? My camera. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Rock climbing. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? 
Dr. David Varricchio. 
What is your current state of mind? Good and studying hard for upcoming course exams. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Make the time to participate in extracurricular activities and join on-campus clubs, hall councils, sports clubs, and societies to meet new people and make new friends with similar interests. 
What is your motto? Never give up even when you feel down. 

Brittany Steiger 
Elementary Education & 
Teaching Reading 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The most important reason why I decided to attend MSU is the community that is built within the students. It is also a place that is away from home but not too far from home. 
What is your most treasured possession? A picture of my family that has my great grandparents in it. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I would take up rock climbing. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? 
My grandmother. 
What is your current state of mind? Happy. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take every opportunity you get. 
What is your motto? You can do hard things. 

Carson Sprague 
English Writing 
1893 Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? It was the cheapest option since I am from Bozeman, and I was originally an architecture student and this is a really good school for that. My reasons for staying here are really complicated and convoluted. 
What is your most treasured possession? I don't know, that's a really difficult question. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Snowmobiling or Woodworking. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Hard to say, it really depends on who counts as a "Montanan." Maybe I need to know more about Montana's history and people. 
What is your current state of mind? Apathy and exhaustion. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Be as active and engaged as you possibly can. Don't miss events, parties, get-togethers, and other opportunities to make memories for homework assignments that you won't remember in the long run. It's cliche, but you can retake a class, but you can't re-take a concert, or a pow-day, or a good time. Also, find a major that you actually care about and then make friends with your peers. 
What is your motto? I don't have a motto. 

Karlie Graham 
Microbiology 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? To get a quality education. 
What is your most treasured possession? My phone right now because it has everything on it. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Traveling would be really fun to do or collect books. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? 
I admire my mom who is a Montana woman born and raised. 
What is your current state of mind? I’m stressed but hanging in there! 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take it one day at a time! Make sure to prioritize your health first. 
What is your motto? Do what makes you happy. 

Allison Eastman 
Nursing 
1893 Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The most important reason why I decided to attend MSU is because of their phenomenal BSN program. The academic and clinical course load may be a bit on the heavy side, but the professors are compassionate, understanding, and driven to help me succeed. I don't think I'd be where I am now without them, and I'll always be grateful for it. 
What is your most treasured possession? For me, my most treasured possession is my video game collection. Though it may look like a bunch of old CDs to most people, it's something that I keep close to my heart and will always bring me joy when I need it most. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? If I didn't have to worry about time or money, I'd be crocheting to my heart's content. I'd be making a little bit of everything: From hats and cardigans, to socks, scarves, blankets, and stuffed animals. Who knows, I may even consider opening a crochet shop on the side. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? One Montanan in particular I admire is Dr. Sadie Lindeberg, one of the few female doctors in the state of Montana that specialized in obstetrics and women's healthcare from the early to the mid 1900s. During her time in Miles City, MT, she helped deliver a number of babies and provided abortion services to women in need when abortion was deemed illegal. 
What is your current state of mind? Though I can be a bit on the gloomy side, I'm optimistic, motivated, empathetic, and anxious. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? My primary piece of advice for MSU students is to be flexible with whatever path they're pursuing, regardless of their major or minor. Nothing in life is guaranteed, but that doesn't mean you don't have the power to change that. 
What is your motto? Don't let your past define your future. In the end, it's you who chooses the path you pursue in life. 

Patrick Olsen 
Human Development and 
Family Science 
Return-to-Learn Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? This is one of the best Family Consumer Sciences schools. 
What is your most treasured possession? My nice looking rock. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Magnet fishing. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? 
J.K. Simmons. 
What is your current state of mind? Stressed and tired. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Reach out to EVERY resource you qualify for. They'll help you succeed. 
What is your motto? I carry on, both for those I've lost and for those I can yet save. 

Kyrah Kirchner 
Food and Nutrition - Dietetics Option 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? It was close to home and had the program I was interested in. 
What is your most treasured possession? My time. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Flying little trick airplanes like the old guys in Secondhand Lions. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire?Jeanette Rankin. The only woman to have ever represented Montana in congress. And the first woman ever elected to the position in the US. 
What is your current state of mind? Grateful, tired. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take advantage of the unique resources available to you. The Office of Health Advancement is an awesome one! 
What is your motto? You only get one life, live a story you would read. 

Jerry Bowman 
Biotechnology 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I wanted to attend MSU because I had the chance to explore more of Montana and take advantage of the undergraduate research opportunities MSU offers. 
What is your most treasured possession? Certainly my motorcycle. It is a 2019 Husqvarna Svartpilen 401 and I am stoked for it to warm up so I can ride it again! 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I've become really interested in Formula 1 racing lately and I think it would be like nothing else to race one of those cars. MotoGP looks almost too scary 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire?Norman Maclean. He is the author of A River Runs Through Itand for anyone who grew up or lives in Montana and/or fishes, they should give it a read. 
What is your current state of mind? It feels easy to be distracted from my goals right now when weighing so many future opportunities. To stay focused on success I am relying on myself to be disciplined in all parts of my life. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Work hard in school but be sure to build strong relationships while you are here. 
What is your motto? Give it your best. 

Elizabeth Sampson 
Exercise Science 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU ? I’ve grown up coming to MSU football games and a number of family members also attend/ed MSU! 
What is your most treasured possession? My dogs. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Traveling the world. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Unsure. 
What is your current state of mind? Happy.  
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Enjoy it! College goes by way to fast and the “big” things really aren’t that big! 
What is your motto? Live life while you can! 

Jovany Guillen Castillo 
Graphic Design 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? Proximity to home and affordability. 
What is your most treasured possession? My time. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Back to singing and playing the piano. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? The Adventure Montanan probably the cowboy Montanan as well. 
What is your current state of mind? Stressed, and questioning my future. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? It's the idea or concept that matters, the design or question will answer and create itself with ideation and time. 
What is your motto? It's a Sunday Kind of Love by Etta James. 

Arianna Cline 
Architecture 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I grew up in Montana and don’t want to leave. Additionally I wanted to go for architecture and they have a great program! 
What is your most treasured possession? Old photos of me and my first dog I got when I was 3. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Drawing and painting. If I didn’t need to have a job I would just be creating. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? I enjoy the families and friends the best. I have met such welcoming and kind families that are willing to treat you like their own! 
What is your current state of mind? School is a long process to finish. But to finish you have to keep working at it. Baby steps 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? I would say that don’t go for classes that are just an easy A. Go for classes that you actually have an interest in and your work will be better than any class you don’t care about. 
What is your motto? Dream big, and trust the people that believe in you that you can do it. 

Nyadhiel Lul 
Environmental Engineering 
Return-to-Learn Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The reason I wanted to come to MSU was to advance my degree with the best resources necessary to complete my major which is at MSU. I have always wanted to attend and graduate college since I was in high school just as my mom wanted to. I am the second oldest out of 7 children and the first to attend college in my immigrant family. I have always been a role model for my family and attending MSU with the resources given to me I can make them proud and show them how well higher education challenges you to become the person you want to be in a good way. I also wanted to explore outside of my social circles and see different parts of the U.S. I have never seen mountains such as they were seen here in Montana, Bozeman specifically.  
What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession would have to be a portable jump start battery I was given as a christmas present from my old coworker at my previous job who was my friend when I told him was moving away to Montana from Nebraska for school. That battery has been my complete lifesaver as I was not that prepared for the cold and the level of snow living here. My car was able to survive another day! 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? A hobby I would like to take up if time and money was not an issue playing more instruments. I have been in orchestra since the 4th grade playing the violin and cello. I always found comfort in music either listening to it or performing it, even if it was difficult to play I enjoyed a challenge. I would be a world-class musician and a master of all instruments in a cabin in the woods away from society. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? The Montanan I most identify with would be Jesse Tyler Ferguson, an American actor from MIssoula, Montana. He is mostly remembered from his character of Mitchell Pritchett from the sitcom Modern Family. His character he played was always my favorite and how well he portrayed a Type-A character accurately and hilarious. 
What is your current state of mind? The truth of my current state of mind is curiosity. I always loved learning new things and trying new experiences such as moving miles away from home to explore a city I have never been in to complete my degree. There is much to learn about the world and others who live in it. I love meeting new people and hearing the lives they lived and events that made them to be the way they are currently. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? My one piece of advice I would give to MSU students is to use every resource available that's on campus. Your tuition is covering for it anyway so take advantage of it and use every bit of it. They are there to help you succeed by anyways necessary and with amazing empathic staff such as the teachers who would meet with you every step of the way. 
What is your motto? My motto is " Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax". It applies to me because my mom named me after my great great grandfather and the meaning behind my name is being "calm" and " taking it easy". The world can feel overwhelming to handle every single day, so it is always okay to take a step back and recharge to face the next day. 

McKayla Carlson 
Marketing & Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I wanted to learn more about marketing and business. I felt Marketing was the only thing I didn't have a complete understanding with business but it was the most intriguing aspect of business in my opinion. 
What is your most treasured possession? My cameras. I never go anywhere without one of them and love getting creative with my photographs. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Wildlife photography. It would be so cool to capture photos of African and South American flora and fauna. (Honestly any "exotic" flora and fauna.) 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? All of my fellow born and raised Montanans! But probably Evelyn Cameron the most. She was a photographer back in the late 1800s/early 1900s who captured the settler life in many of her photographs. 
What is your current state of mind? Excited to graduate and finally work full time again and get on with my life. I am very excited for what the future holds! 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Don't be afraid to take a break from college. I wouldn't be graduating with only one student loan if I didn't figure out what I actually wanted to do and had the chance to save money. 
What is your motto? Never stop learning and always try something new at least once! 

Luke Petrus 
History & Environmental Science 
Return-to-Learn Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I decided to return to MSU because I wanted to improve my station in life. 
What is your most treasured possession? My bicycle. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Woodworking. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Evel Knievel 
What is your current state of mind? Calm and confident 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take a gap year. Maturity is partially biological. 
What is your motto? "Let's GOOOOOOO!" 

Jordyn Meyer 
Microbiology 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The science program and because of all the mountains. 
What is your most treasured possession? A dollar from Jordan that my uncle gave me. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Backcountry skiing throughout the world. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My mom. 
What is your current state of mind? Determination and resilience 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Enjoy what MSU has to offer. It is easy to get so lost in school and only focus on that, but when you look around, you see what you're missing out on. 
What is your motto? Life is too short to be serious. 

Asherah Bauquier 
Sociology 
Return-to-Learn Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I wanted to get a degree to give myself the best chance at success in life. 
What is your most treasured possession? My beautiful van home. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Ice Skating 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Zoe Zephyr 
What is your current state of mind? Survival 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Meet with your professors in office hours. 
What is your motto? "Just doing my best" 

Paula Diaz 
Environmental Health 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I was tired of doing what I had to in order to survive. I wanted to create a future I would enjoy. 
What is your most treasured possession? My health. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Rockhounding and jewelry making. 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? I admire my great uncle Thomas Kemph. He's in the Montana Hall of fame. He came to Montana with John Bozeman on the Bozeman trail and was interested in gold. Later he became a trapper and settled on a homestead near Greycliff. It's still there. 
What is your current state of mind? Optimistic 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Plan your time wisely, but don't forget to leave time for fun endeavors. 
What is your motto? Your life is what you make it. 

Moriah Schutt 
Sustainable Foods &  
Bioenergy Systems 
Montana's Own Scholar 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? Offered the degree program I was looking for with passionate professors teaching the subject. 
What is your most treasured possession? My Army National Guard graduation ring. I bought it during a time in my training that I wasn't sure I would graduate because of stress fractures in my femur. It's a constant daily reminder of how God has carried me through hard things like that. 
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Musical theatre, or professionally trained singer (Opera). Or being a mascot for a company (not sports) full time! Or hosting Disney princess parties! Options are endless... 
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? After seeing Barbra Van Cleve's photography at Museum of the Rockies a few months ago, I admire her perspective on life and how she captures it through her photographs. 
What is your current state of mind? Determination. Discipline. But also to slow down, find the joy in the little things, and enjoy this phase in life because it will soon change. 
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Apply for CatScholarships. Just do it! There are so many opportunities for additional financial support with only submitting one application. Second piece of advice, use the Writing Center! I waited till my senior year to finally ask for their help on a writing task and boy was that a mistake! They are so helpful for any writing needs!! 
What is your motto? Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 

Devinn Paine | Environmental Design & Hispanic Studies
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2025 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The Architecture Program here at Montana State was the most importantreason. I knew the career field I wanted to be in, and I knew MSU was an accredited school with the NCARB.
What is your most treasured possession? My dog, Honey, is my most treasured possession.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Traveling! I spent time in other countries in high school, butdue to time and money, I haven't been able to return to this hobby.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Mhmm.. a good question. In community college (before attending MSU), I was in aMontana History class where I learned about Jeannette Rankin. Her contribution to women in Montana is incredible and she is definitelyadmired by me.
What is your current state of mind? My current state of mind is stressed enough to get work done; both a positive and negative state ofmind.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be?College is a great opportunity to try new things, so take advantage of it. You won't know if you like it unless you try.
What is your motto? "It's not that deep" or in other words, don't analyze everything so closely. 

Annemarie Kozlowski | Hospitality Management: Farm to Table & Small Business Entrepreneurship
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2026 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I want to start my own business one day, and I don't know how to do that. Ifound the degree I am in and decided to re enroll so I can learn.
What is your most treasured possession? My dog, Oliver.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Ballet! I danced competitively until I was 16, it has beenalmost 10 years since I stopped and I miss it so much! I would also want to pick up playing the oboe again. I would like to practice enough andaudition for the Bozeman symphony eventually.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? I admire the Folkford family. They own several business in Gallatin Valley includingThe Sacajawea Hotel, the RSVP Motel, and Farmers Daughter. They have built up these businesses and brought together a community. Theyare passionate about their business, the employees, and their guests. They are always making the rounds and making sure everyone is doingwell. I would like to replicate that in my own business one day.
What is your current state of mind? Right now I have a lot of buzzing in my head. With my classes, homework, work, my relationship, extracurriculars, internship applications, rent, car trouble, my dogs health, my own health... there is a lot going on. But I am excited about mycurrent path!
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Know what you want to do in the future before attending college! Itmakes your classes and everything else have so much more meaning.
What is your motto? When life gives you lemons, make orange juice and leave the rest of the world wondering how you did it. 

Walker Ator | Political Science
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2025 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? MSU has always played a big role in my life growing up in rural Montana.Staying in Montana to pursue secondary education has been a lifelong dream. I love Bozeman and the Bobcats so coming to MSU was an easydecision.
What is your most treasured possession? My 2020 Montana 6-man football championship ring. It represents the strong bond between myformer teammates, coaches, and home community.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I would travel to every Major League Baseball and NationalFootball League stadium to watch a game.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My dad. He was born and raised in the same community that I was. He is thehardest working person I know and he taught me the importance of embracing the rural Montana identity.
What is your current state of mind? Controlled Chaos
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take care of the little things in life, the rest will follow.
What is your motto? Excelsior- Onward and Upward 

Patrick Olson | Human Development &Family Science
Return-to-Learn Scholar |Graduation: May 2028 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? MSU has the best HDFS program in Montana
What is your most treasured possession? The Kreeps pin on my backpack that my fiance gave me.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Magnet Fishing
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? J.K. Simmons. His J. Jonah Jameson resonates with me.
What is your current state of mind? Jumbled
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Reach out for help. Asking for help is not shameful
What is your motto? If life knocks you off your horse, you get back up and eat that horse.

Moriah Schutt |Sustainable Foods &Bioenergy Systems
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2024 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? Get through school as debt-free as possible. Set myself up for a promisingcareer.
What is your most treasured possession? Right now, Army Basic Training Graduation Ring
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Professional Dancing: Ballet or Ballroom
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Bob Quinn
What is your current state of mind? "It'll work itself out in the end, it'll be alright, just give it your best, don't sweat it, just get it done."
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Apply for Cat Scholarships. One applications and they come to you. Leastamount of effort, biggest reward.
What is your motto? "Do something today that your future self will thank you for" 

 Tara Bates | Paleontology
1893 Scholar |Graduation: December 2024 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? To start a new chapter of my life and escape the monotony I found myself inbefore 2020. I wanted to get healthier mentally, I wanted to learn more about the far past and in a way learn more about myself and my passions.
What is your most treasured possession? I would probably say my shell fossil necklaces and ammonite earrings. They practically shout "HEY!FOSSILS ARE COOL AND STUFF!" at people, and so I like wearing them when I go to meet people for the first time.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Weirdly enough, modern bone collecting of wild animals (solong as they're relatively clean and fairly obviously dead from natural causes of course). I think lately I've come to realize that I really just likebones, and I like seeing how they can connect to form a skeleton and give a hint of what kind of animal it belonged to. It's also very interestinghow analogous hooved animals' bones are to ours, and learning the differences in their shape and form is cool!
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Growing up in Butte, I've honestly come to dread how much of Montanan (or at leastButtian (hehe) history) is clouded by corruption, pettiness and greed. I will also admit that we don't learn much about other historical Montanansin Butte, so I don't have much context for other Montanans. So instead I strive to eventually come to admire my own accomplishments and gain abetter respect for myself as a Montanan. It might sound self centered to say so, but I'm actually trying to improve my own self esteem and selfworth in saying so. I'm hoping to prove to myself that I can do things I strive for if only to spite the mirror I've seen myself through the past 2decades or so.
What is your current state of mind? Part of me is relaxed and relieved that I've actually given myself the weekends off, a first for the lastseveral years! Part of me is not used to having days to sleep in though, so sometimes I find myself having the most bonkers sleep schedule forthe weekend, which is just an absolute delight. Part of me is super stoked that I've only got a few more classes left to go over the next fewsemesters, but another part is trying to reign me in a bit and ground myself in the now, to complete the classes I have before me. Part of me isexcited to think of myself now as a crazy bone lady, but part of me is concerned about if that's all I want out of this...but perhaps that just meansthere are still more secrets I get to learn about myself that I have not yet discovered on my own!
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Don't stress yourself out too much, or stretch yourself thin. Yes, yourstudies may be a top priority, but your mental health and how you feel should be your main concern. Give yourself a day or two to relax! And ifyou feel you have enough time to do homework on those days then go for it! Also don't worry if a part time job you have during work ends up notworking out, it's just a j.o.b. It might suck if you get fired or laid off (it's happened to me a few times by now, and hoo Nelly its painful) but maybe itmeans you can look to other avenues of work that might be more fun for you!
What is your motto? It's okay to be a WIP (work in progress): even the early stages of art are impressive and remarkable in their own way. 

Jamie Karinen | Computer Science
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2025 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? To learn as much as I can.
What is your most treasured possession? My body, I couldn't live without it!
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Reading and writing all day.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Not sure!
What is your current state of mind? Optimistically pessimistic.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Get organized.
What is your motto? Input over output. 

Layton Renee McCafferty | Computer Science & French and Francophone Studies
1893 Scholar |Graduation: May 2024 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? The most important reason I decided to attend MSU was for the technology programs. I was originally planning on attending college at UM, butI learned that MSU has a much more robust technology program.
What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession is my iPad. I take it everywhere with me and use it for almost everything. Shopping, notes, art, work, etc.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? If time and money were not a consideration, I would really love to get into building computers. It takes a lot of time to learn about this topic anda lot of money if you happen to mess up.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? The Montanan I identify the most with is Evil Knievel. Honestly, there's no rhyme or reason for this. It just resonates.
What is your current state of mind? Get your money up, not your funny up! Working hard pays off.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Apply. For. Scholarships. Even if your tuition is covered right now by grants and such, that extra money goes a long way in the future. You neverknow when you may need it.
What is your motto? Lead by example. 

Karlie Graham | Microbiology
Montana's Own Scholar |Graduation: May 2025 

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? To get an education and progress in the field of study I want to pursue.
What is your most treasured possession? I think that would be my phone because it has all my family photos and messages from my dad who passed away in 2019.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? I'm going to choose two things. One I would take up MMA because I think it would be challenging and fun. The second, I would like to buy all thebooks I love and want.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? I think the Montanan I admire most is my mom. She was born and raised in Montana just like me.
What is your current state of mind? That everything will pass. Nothing stays bad or good, life is always fluctuating.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Take care of yourself first, and have school come second.
What is your motto? Keep moving forward.

Shaylyn Tadej Evans |Sociology
Montana's Own Scholar | Graduation: May 2024

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I wanted to stay in Montana but be out on my own.
What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession is the ranch I live on.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? If money and time were not considered a hobby, I would pick up learning how to skydive and get my skydiving certification.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My mom is the Montanan that identify with and admire the most.
What is your current state of mind? Senioritis
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? My advice would be to work hard during the week that way when the weekend comes you can relax and not overwhelm yourself with whatever you might be dealing with.
What is your motto? It happens.

Seth Higgins | Global & Multicultural Studies
1893 Scholar | Graduation: May 2024

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? Word of mouth had it that MSU was progressive and chill with people like me (trans, Jewish, multiracial) and I wanted to be somewhere with that energy while I worked on my degree.
What is your most treasured possession? The three-foot tall plush Squirtle my dad got me when I was 3, after I had to go to the hospital for anaphylactic shock from strawberries, and then I went further into shock when given anti-allergy meds because I'm allergic to antihistamines. My dad bought me the biggest Squirtle he could find because he felt guilty for giving me the strawberry that caused the whole incident.
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Stained glass making. My ancestors on my mom's dad's side used to do that and I love how stained glass looks, but not only is it expensive, it's very hard to find someone to teach you the skill.
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My fifth-grade teacher, Mr. Laughlin.
What is your current state of mind? Highly accomplished, vaguely proud of myself, sleepy from the rain, and ready for whatever the future holds.
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Please eat and drink water regularly! I am extremely tired of talking to people on this campus who casually mention skipping meals/not drinking water/both. Can y'all PLEASE take care of yourselves?! Yes, academics matter, but so do you.
What is your motto? "I died once - this isn't *that* bad."

Brittany Steiger | Elementary Education
Montana's Own Scholar | Graduation: May 2024

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? A place that i can go to college in a different town without being too far away from my family
What is your most treasured possession? A locket my mom gave me
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Rock climbing
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My mom because she is kind and funny and is caring for so many people, is an amazing women
What is your current state of mind? Positive
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Do your best and don’t sweat the small stuff
What is your motto? Being nice is free

Rocky Myles | Verrue Crop Science & Entomology
Montana's Own Scholar | Graduation: May 2025

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? Extreme variance of Majors and vast amount of opportunities
What is your most treasured possession? Memories
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Gem collection
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My grandfather
What is your current state of mind? Tired but happy to work and succeed
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Goof off your freshman year and afterwards get down to business
What is your motto? Go with the flow

Sydnee Lovering | Architecture
Return-to-Learn Scholar | Graduation: May 2025

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? It is close to home
What is your most treasured possession? My guitar
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? A Choir
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? Jesse Tyler Ferguson What is your current state of mind? Excited and sleepy
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? You are the only person who can give what you have to offer
What is your motto? Let your choices reflect your hopes not your fears

Jhett Johnson | Environmental Design
Montana's Own Scholar | Graduation: May 2025

What is the most important reason you decided to attend MSU? I love Montana and wanted to pursue a career in architecture
What is your most treasured possession? My family, I spend as much time as possible with them!
If time and money were not a consideration, what hobby would you take up? Collecting shoes
What Montanan do you most identify with or admire? My mom, she is my rock and supporter in life!
What is your current state of mind? Overwhelmed! But full of architectural ideas
If you had one piece of advice for MSU students, what would it be? Enjoy life, don’t get wrapped up in school!
What is your motto? It’s not that deep!