Challey Spotlight: Emilee Eggen
Freshman, Business Administration
Emilee Eggen is a freshman studying business administration with a minor in psychology. She grew up in Plentywood, Montana, before coming to NDSU as a first-generation student. In addition to her studies, she is involved in the Women in Business Club and Saddle and Sirloin Club. Emilee is an inaugural recipient of the First-Generation Business Scholarship supported by the Challey Institute and the Ronald and Kaye Olson Deanship for NDSU’s College of Business.
Challey Institute activities: First-Generation Business Scholarship recipient; Menard Family Distinguished Speaker Series; Human Progress and Flourishing Workshop
Why did you choose NDSU, and what interests you about the field of business?
I have two older sisters and they both graduated from NDSU, so I knew that I wanted to follow in their footsteps. I also knew that NDSU had a great business program, so it was kind of an easy decision. I’m still not sure what specifically I want to do with my career, but business is broad enough that I can pursue whatever I want.
You have been able to attend several of our distinguished speakers this fall. What has that experience been like?
Trying to balance classes, clubs, and the extra activities has been challenging, but I really enjoyed all of the Challey events and speakers so far. I’ve learned a lot from those experiences and what each speaker has said.
Did any of the events have a big impact on you?
Alice Marie Johnson was my favorite! I just thought it was really inspiring how she never gave up and lived her life to the fullest, even though it wasn’t the best circumstances.
Your career at NDSU is just starting out. What are you looking forward to in the upcoming semesters?
I hope that I get to meet more people and continue to experience all of the wonderful things NDSU has to offer – and I look forward to attending more speaker events and seeing what’s out there in the business world. To just learn more about life.
As a first-generation student, what impact do scholarships and philanthropy have on your education?
Receiving the scholarship has been a huge help with my financial situation. I have been saving money for college since I was nine-years-old. For as long as I can remember, I’ve been saving money. So getting that extra help is an incredible opportunity, and I am so thankful for that. It just has opened me to be able to go to classes and experience everything NDSU has to offer.
