Experiences
Everything you need is right here in Fargo

The Fargo-Moorhead community offers endless possibilities for you to grow and thrive. Known for its welcoming community, hardworking, Midwest culture and exceptional quality of life, Fargo offers a small-town feel combined with big-city culture.
NDSU is steps away from downtown Fargo, the heart of the city, where you’ll find annual events, entrepreneurial opportunities and a dynamic arts scene. Our city also offers an array of seasonal activities, including bike trails, parks, museums, concert venues and sporting events.
Read more below to learn from our students about how Fargo has enhanced their college experiences.

Name: Megan Helvig
Hometown: Mandan, North Dakota
Major: Human development and family science
How does Fargo complement the NDSU student experience?
Fargo adds a lot to the NDSU student experience. It’s big enough to have a lot going on, but still small enough to feel connected and community focused. One of the best things is how supportive the city is of students — local businesses, nonprofits and even city leaders often collaborate with NDSU on internships, research projects and service opportunities. With so many internships and part-time jobs around, it’s easy to start building a career path before graduation.
Outside of work and academics, Fargo has a welcoming vibe. Whether it's downtown events like the Red River Market or the Coffee Crawl, live music, craft nights at Brewhalla, or local coffee shops, it gives students a place to unwind and feel like they’re part of something bigger than campus life.
What would you say to prospective students who are considering NDSU but aren’t familiar with Fargo?
Don’t let the fact that you don’t know Fargo hold you back because once you’re here, it really starts to feel like home. Fargo is one of those cities that surprises you in the best way. It’s big enough to have lots to do, great food, music and community events, but small enough that you never feel lost in the crowd. People are welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of support both on and off campus. Fargo has a unique charm that makes the college experience even more memorable. So, if you’re on the fence, I’d say come visit, or even just take the leap. Most of us were in your shoes at one point and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.
What internships or job opportunities have you found in Fargo?
Starting as a volunteer at Sanford helped me gain experience, build relationships and eventually transition into paid work. Honestly, Fargo has a lot of opportunities if you're willing to put yourself out there and start small.
Have you had any networking experiences in Fargo that have helped shape your professional path?
Some of the most impactful networking experiences I’ve had in Fargo came through my involvement with the Legacy Children’s Foundation. I originally got involved as an academic coach, just looking for a part time job while in college, but what I didn’t expect was how those opportunities would shape my professional path. At Legacy, I had the chance to work closely with mentors, leaders and other college students who were deeply invested in youth development and community outreach. It gave me insight into nonprofit work, leadership and the power of education-based support systems. Beyond the skills I gained, these experiences have helped me build real relationships with people who are passionate about making a difference. They’ve been generous with advice, opened doors to other opportunities and really helped me start thinking seriously about how I want to make an impact in my own career.

Name: Trinity Erickson
Hometown: Climax, Minnesota
Major: Agricultural economics
What are some of your favorite things to do around Fargo?
Visiting the parks are some of my favorite things to do. They have great walking trails and views. Some even paths by the river. Fargo Parks has a ton of areas set up for recreation. Some of my favorites include pickleball and outdoor basketball. Fargo Parks also puts on numerous sports leagues for adults. While I stay here in the summer, I participate in a sand volleyball league.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to students who want to make the most of their time in Fargo?
It does not matter what specific location you go; every experience is what you make it. You can choose to take advantage of all the opportunities you are given, and to foster new relationships. So go out and take advantage of all the experiences in Fargo.
How have local businesses and industries supported your career development?
Fargo is truly a growing industry hub. There are so many businesses that are invested in students’ success. Currently I am finishing up the AgCountry’s Ag Lending Fellows program. NDSU partners with multiple industry professionals to provide students with hands-on learning experiences.

Name: Patrick Kirkpatrick
Hometown: West Allis, Wisconsin
Major: Environmental engineering
What role does the Fargo community play in making students feel welcome and connected?
It gives students a third place where they can hang out with their friends outside of campus. It also gives students an opportunity to meet different people of different cultures and walks of life.
What’s one hidden gem in Fargo that you think more students should know about?
Rhombus Guys is a wonderful restaurant that I don’t believe gets the recognition that it deserves. And if you’re looking for board games and card games, Paradox Comics-N-Cards is the place to check out. They do tons of events for different trading card games all the time!
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to students who want to make the most of their time in Fargo?
Be on the lookout for different events that happen in the downtown area. Folkways is a great organization that puts on tons of events that can connect you with many different vendors and businesses in the Fargo area.

Name: Ella Bossert
Hometown: Hot Springs, South Dakota
Major: Sport management
What are some of your favorite things to do around Fargo?
My favorite thing to do in Fargo is go to the Red River Market in the summer and fall. It’s a great way to spend a Saturday morning, and I almost never come home empty-handed. They also usually have live music and amazing food. Also in the fall, me and my friends have made a tradition of going to the Lil’ Bitz Pumpkin Patch. It’s about 20 minutes from campus, and they have a wide range of activities for a great price.
What would you say to prospective students who are considering NDSU but aren’t familiar with Fargo?
NDSU is a lot more of a connected community than you may think. Coming from a small town myself – around 4,000 people – I assumed that because of its size, Fargo would feel disconnected and not have a lot of community events. After living here for almost two years, I’ve learned that Fargo values community just as much as any small town. One thing that draws the community together is Bison pride and football season, and it’s always fun being out in the area and talking to a community member about your time at NDSU.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give to students who want to make the most of their time in Fargo?
Say yes to things and be open to change. There are a lot of things you may think you don’t like, but once you try them again with a more open mind, you’d be surprised at how many new things you really do enjoy. Another thing I would say is to get off campus once in a while just to explore or go to an event you’ve seen advertised. Fargo has a lot to offer so you can always find something to do and new people to meet.