Eight May 2019 graduates share their future plans and what they will remember about their NDSU experience.
Jamie Behymer
Major: Management communication
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
My involvement in student organizations provided me with leadership skills and personal development opportunities during my time as a student. I was able to learn more about myself and others by actively engaging in a variety of clubs. My education and experiences at NDSU not only provided information on how to be successful, but offered first-hand opportunities to learn. I am thankful for the time and talent NDSU dedicated to my development.
Plans after graduation: I will work for Special Olympics International as a specialist for leadership development and global youth engagement.
Sydney Dale
Major: Marketing and global business
Hometown: Watertown, South Dakota
NDSU has provided me with so many experiences in which I have grown personally and professionally. The most meaningful part of my journey has been the lifelong relationships I have established and the outstanding education I received. The university has given me the sense of community and family with experiences and opportunities of a lifetime.
Plans after graduation: I am seeking a position that will challenge me and provide opportunities to travel and grow.
Pamela Joyce
Major: Nursing
Hometown: South Sudan, Africa
The relationships I have developed with students and faculty members are most memorable to me. The people I’ve met here are more than just friends. They are family. I wouldn’t be where I am right now without all of them.
Plans after graduation: I plan to stay in Fargo and find a job where I can help my community in any way I can. I also plan to go back to school as soon as I can.
Emily Kautzman
Major: Construction management
Hometown: Mandan, North Dakota
Being a tour guide on campus is one of the things I’ll remember the most about my NDSU experience. I had the chance to meet so many amazing people and show perspective students from all over the country why our university is so amazing. Giving those tours helped me grow as a public speaker, a leader and a member of the community.
Plans after graduation: I will be an associate project manager at MEI Technologies in Fargo.
Jared M. Melville
Major: Business administration and political science
Hometown: Fargo, North Dakota
I am incredibly grateful for all the wonderful and supportive people I have had the pleasure of meeting while at NDSU. North Dakota produces some of the hardest working, most genuine, well intentioned people in the country. It was easy for me to find my place here and to connect with the NDSU community.
Plans after graduation: As a Truman Scholar, I look forward to moving to Washington, D.C., for the summer to work with the Council of State Governments as a Research and Graduate Fellow.
Lexi Nelson
Major: Emergency management
Hometown: Moorhead, Minnesota
I feel like the most meaningful experiences I’ve had at NDSU have come in my leadership positions on campus. As a student ambassador, I was able to connect with so many students. I’m so thankful I was able to be a role model at NDSU. I also was elected an officer of the organization, which made me more confident in my ability to lead and help my organization thrive.
Plans after graduation: I will continue to work throughout the summer for the Emergency Management Department at Sanford Health in Fargo. My goal is to work in emergency planning for the government or for a business.
Rachel Ouren
Major: Animal science
Hometown: Monument, Colorado
I’ve been able to form new and genuine friendships during my time at NDSU that have added so much to my education and personal growth in college. I came here from Colorado anxious to make friends and I didn’t want to be another face in the crowd. Forming so many meaningful relationships at NDSU taught me how to appreciate people as individuals. The confidence my peers and professors have in me has reassured me that I’m on the right track in pursuing my dreams.
Plans after graduation: I will pursue a master’s degree in range science at NDSU.
Marisa Pacella
Major: Hospitality and tourism management with minors in psychology and business administration
Hometown: West Fargo, North Dakota
I received a valuable education in my program and as the student body vice president. The opportunity to serve fellow students has been a privilege that I will carry with me forever. My education and involvement on campus allowed me to utilize my critical thinking and further develop my interpersonal communication skills. These experiences prepared me for success after graduation.
Plans after graduation: I will work as a resource development associate for United Way of Cass-Clay in Fargo, North Dakota.
