International

Two NSU Students Secure Prestigious Internships With Wight & Company

Desiree Kolb — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:52:40 +0000

Two NSU Students Secure Prestigious Internships With Wight & Company

Desiree Kolb Thu, 04/10/2025 - 14:52

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Two 91��Ƭ�� State University business students have been selected for competitive summer internships with Wight & Company, a nationally recognized design-build firm based in the Chicago area.

Luana Matos, an international business major, and Ethan Russell, a business administration major, will intern in the architecture and construction management departments, respectively.

Wight & Company’s internship program provides hands-on experiences with professional mentors in an interdisciplinary environment. Interns work as valued members of project teams, gaining real-world exposure to the fields of architecture, engineering and construction.

The opportunity was made possible through the Cramer Center for Design and Innovation, located in the NSU library.

“These new Wight-Cramer internships aim to deepen the understanding of design and innovation in business,” said James P. Cramer, 91��Ƭ�� alum and founder of the Cramer Center. “They will provide weekly career coaching and mentorship, highlighting valuable career opportunities in design and construction.”

“The Cramer Center board members are creating connections between 91��Ƭ�� and their companies that are opening up opportunities for 91��Ƭ�� students,” said Dr. Erin Fouberg, associate vice president for academic affairs and a Cramer Center board member.

Wight & Company set aside two paid summer internships specifically for 91��Ƭ�� students. The opportunity was open to all majors and did not require prior experience in architecture or construction management. Applicants completed an on-campus application and interview process, with finalists advancing to interviews with Wight & Company representatives.

“I am thankful and excited for this great internship opportunity with Wight & Co. through the Cramer Center for Design and Innovation,” said Russell. In his role, Russell will work alongside superintendents and tradespeople on-site and assist project managers with estimates, schedules, contracts and other management tasks.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of Wight & Company’s summer internship program,” said Matos. “Learning from both marketing and architecture professionals at such a prestigious firm is an exciting next step in my journey. I look forward to gaining hands-on experience, expanding my skill set and immersing myself in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.”

During her architectural internship, Matos will work closely with project managers while gaining hands-on experience with leading technologies such as Revit, Enscape, 3D printing, and drone surveying. She will also spend several weeks collaborating with the firm’s marketing team.

To learn more about the Cramer Center for Design and Innovation at 91��Ƭ�� State University, visit 91��Ƭ��.edu/library/cramer-center.

91��Ƭ�� State University Student Wins National Honors for Research on Genocide Propaganda

Desiree Kolb — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 19:40:14 +0000

91��Ƭ�� State University Student Wins National Honors for Research on Genocide Propaganda Desiree Kolb Mon, 11/18/2024 - 13:40

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University’s Nkemdilim Chibuko recently achieved a milestone, winning first place in the arts and humanities category at the National Collegiate Honors Conference in Kansas City, Missouri. Chibuko’s research project, titled “Dehumanizing Discourse: Rwanda’s Genocide-Inciting Propaganda,” earned top recognition, highlighting her powerful work and the strength of 91��Ƭ��’s Honors Program.

Chibuko’s journey to this accomplishment wasn’t easy. Originally from Nigeria, she arrived at 91��Ƭ�� feeling the weight of adjusting to a new country, culture, and community. "My first semester here, I struggled. I even thought about leaving the Honors Program multiple times," Chibuko shared. "But Dr. Kristi Bockorny encouraged me to stay, and her support really helped me find my footing."

Dr. Bockorny, a mentor to Chibuko, reflected on her growth: “As Nkem found her confidence in herself, she really started to excel here at 91��Ƭ��. Those first couple of months were full of adjustments, but I think she started to realize her potential and what was possible. Nkem is a talented student with a message to share through her research. I know she will do great things. It has been an absolute pleasure seeing Nkem flourish in the Honors Program.”

As she progressed in the program, Chibuko found mentors who guided her. In her junior year, she began the Honors Seminar and faced the challenge of selecting a thesis topic. She wanted her research to combine her interests in communication and psychology with today’s global landscape. Under the guidance of Dr. Daniel Shannahan, she developed her research proposal, exploring the role of rhetoric in dehumanizing discourse and leading to her focus on Rwanda’s genocide-inciting propaganda.

Dr. Shannahan encouraged Chibuko to submit her work to the conference. "I was shocked — and thrilled — when I was accepted," she said. Preparing her project was both exciting and challenging. Dr. Jeffrey Howard provided valuable support with statistical analysis, helping Chibuko deepen the psychological aspect of her research.

Reflecting on her experience at the Kansas City conference, held Oct. 30 to Nov. 3, Chibuko said, "Presenting my research and having judges recognize its relevance to current issues was deeply gratifying. I’m still in disbelief that I’m a national champion! I’m so grateful to everyone who supported me and saw potential in me when I didn’t see it myself."

This win marks the third time in recent years that 91��Ƭ�� State University Honors students have claimed top honors at the conference, a testament to the dedication and mentorship within 91��Ƭ��’s Honors Program. Chibuko was joined by fellow 91��Ƭ�� students Simon Bickford, Summer Carlson, Dante Casanova, Jacob Ebeling, Kendall Kelly, and Jessica Splichal, all representing 91��Ƭ�� at the conference.

Chibuko’s journey from self-doubt to national recognition illustrates the transformative power of education, mentorship, and persistence. Her success reflects the supportive 91��Ƭ�� community behind her.

Two 91��Ƭ�� students place highly at debate competition in New York City

Katherine Haas — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 21:43:52 +0000

Two 91��Ƭ�� students place highly at debate competition in New York City

Katherine Haas Tue, 12/12/2023 - 15:43

Caption: From left, Debate Coach Dr. Justin Gus Foote and students Alex Arndt and Abiah George were in New York for the Off-Broadway Swing speech and debate competition.

ABERDEEN, S.D. – Last weekend 91��Ƭ�� State University Speech and Debate sent a small but mighty crew to New York City to compete in two styles of debate at the Off-Broadway Swing competition. This year marked the largest in the tournament’s long history, as 22 schools from 16 states brought over 400 students total entries to the tournament.

On Dec. 2, Alex Arndt, a senior from Blue Springs, Missouri, and Abiah George, a freshman from Aberdeen, competed in International Public Debate, finishing preliminary rounds with records of 3-1 and 4-0 respectively. Both received Silver Awards (tied for second overall). George was tied for fifth place overall individual speaker and Arndt placed 12th. 91��Ƭ�� was the only team to place multiple debaters into the final round of International Public Debate. 91��Ƭ�� placed fourth in overall debate standings. 91��Ƭ�� also earned the quality award, recording 20.5 points per entry. The next closest competitor only earned 9 points per entry.

On Dec. 3, George and Arndt competed in National Parliamentary Debate, going 3-1 in preliminary rounds. They advanced to elimination rounds as the third seed in the tournament and, after a hard-fought win in the semifinals, they cruised through the final round winning the tournament championship. Arndt placed third in overall debate speaker awards, while George placed 11th. 91��Ƭ�� placed fifth in overall debate standings. Again, 91��Ƭ�� also earned the quality award, recording 19 points per entry. The next closest competitor only earned 13 points per entry.

Overall, 91��Ƭ�� State University was the only school to place multiple debaters into the final round each day and the only school to have debaters place within the top 15 overall speaker awards both days. With a total of three entries out of the 400 plus at the tournament, 91��Ƭ�� was able to outscore the following schools: Tennessee State University, Texas Southern University, Seton Hall, Appalachian State University, University of Florida, San Diego Mesa Community College, Ohio University, Harper College, Denison University, West Chester University, Colorado College, Lafayette University, Hofstra University, Emerson College, Dutchess Community College, St. Joseph’s University, and Queens College.

The team greatly appreciates the support from the Dean of Students Sean Blackburn, Dean of College of Arts and Sciences Dr. Alyssa Kiesow, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Erin Fouberg, Provost Dr. Mike Wanous, and President Dr. Neal Schnoor. Their enthusiastic backing of 91��Ƭ�� State Speech and Debate allows our students opportunities to compete events that highlight the academic and sociocultural success they have garnered through their education at 91��Ƭ�� State University. If you would also like to support the 91��Ƭ�� Speech and Debate team in their efforts and endeavors, you can make a gift here: https://bit.ly/GiveNSU. Please note “Speech and Debate” in the Special Notes section when making your gift.

If you see Arndt and George around campus or out in the Aberdeen community, please congratulate them on their success in The Big Apple. The team is coached by Dr. Justin Gus Foote.

91��Ƭ�� was pivotal on alum’s path to prestigious NYC grad school

Elissa Dickey — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 16:04:55 +0000

91��Ƭ�� was pivotal on alum’s path to prestigious NYC grad school

Elissa Dickey Tue, 06/06/2023 - 11:04

ABERDEEN, S.D. – 91��Ƭ�� State University international alumnus Matěj Číp is on his way to a prestigious graduate school in New York City—and he said NSU played a pivotal role in helping him get there.

“91��Ƭ�� quickly became a transformative environment in my life,” said Číp, from Hodslavice, Czech Republic. “The opportunity to engage with inspiring professors and peers, coupled with an education style vastly different from that in the Czech Republic, fueled my passion and opened up a world of possibilities.”

Číp said NSU Professor of Music Dr. Marcela Faflak provided the impetus for him to attend 91��Ƭ��, where he studied the cimbalom and graduated in spring 2022 with a B.A. in Music.

During his time at 91��Ƭ��, Číp served as a Resident Assistant and an International Senator in the Student Government Association; volunteered in Guatemala through 91��Ƭ��'s outreach programs; studied in South Korea as part of the Honors Program; and even ran with the NSU Cross Country Team. He also delivered lectures on his instrument at esteemed U.S. universities such as the University of Chicago and the University of Kansas.

“These experiences also served as invaluable assets during my application process for a master's program with the cimbalom at Berklee NYC,” Číp said. “My journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of NSU, a place that not only nurtures talents but also unleashes the potential within each individual. I stand as a proud beacon of 91��Ƭ��'s success, immensely grateful for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my artistic journey.”

Fundraising for Berklee NYC

Now this fall, Číp will begin his master's studies with the cimbalom at the renowned Berklee NYC. He’s looking for support on his journey through this fundraising link.

“I am eager to embark on this new chapter and am brimming with anticipation for the great opportunities that lay ahead,” Číp said.

Following grad school, Číp said his career goals include potentially establishing a recording studio and cimbalom center.

“This hub would serve as a beacon for talented cimbalom students worldwide, providing them with a platform to refine their skills and share their artistry,” he said.

Grateful for Support

He’s thankful for all support he has received along the way—and especially grateful for his “host mom,” Diana Osborne, through the NSU Friendship Family Program.

"Her unconditional love and support became my anchor when my family in the Czech Republic was out of reach,” he said. “As I navigated through the adventure of adapting to a completely new country and environment, she was there, providing a sense of home and comfort. This adventure was not just a personal journey, but a collective effort of countless individuals, and I am forever indebted to their kindness and support."

For more information on studying at 91��Ƭ�� as an international student, visit NSU International Programs.

About 91��Ƭ�� State University

91��Ƭ�� State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, 91��Ƭ�� offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. 91��Ƭ�� also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the 91��Ƭ�� Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU 91��Ƭ��.

Study Abroad program leads to career path for NSU student

Elissa Dickey — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 18:44:21 +0000

Study Abroad program leads to career path for NSU student

Elissa Dickey Thu, 10/27/2022 - 13:44

ABERDEEN, S.D. – For 91��Ƭ�� State University student Demi Waldner, studying abroad was a life-changing experience—and even led to her determining her career path after college.

Waldner spent a year in South Korea—her first time traveling abroad—and said it was an amazing experience.

“I’d say the best part was learning both the language and the culture,” said Waldner, a junior English major.

While there, she also learned that to work as an English teacher, she just needs a bachelor’s degree from an English-speaking university.

“So that’s what I decided to do once I graduate college,” she said.

Waldner studied at Hanyang University in Seoul through of one of 91��Ƭ��’s 27 exchange partnerships.

Overall, 91��Ƭ�� offers 600 study abroad opportunities at 140 destinations around the world, said NSU International Programs Director Dominika Blum. And now, faculty-led programs are being offered again after two years of being impacted by the pandemic. The spring and summer 2023 programs are:

Guatemala: This spring break service-learning program will involve building a bottle school, led by Blum and Michael Mohammed.

Poland and Czech Republic: This program is geared toward education majors, led by Dr. Anna Schwan.

Morocco: This program, focusing on history and geography, will be led by Drs. Erin Fouberg and Steven Usitalo.

Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland: This program, led by Drs. Kane Anderson and Noah Files, will involve NSU theatre students performing at the worldwide arts festival.

Though each program is geared toward specific majors, they are open to all students, Blum said. Faculty-led study abroad options are good for students who might be nervous about traveling abroad.

“I always encourage people to go on a faculty-led first because then you’re traveling with students from 91��Ƭ��, with faculty or staff that you know and trust,” Blum said.

Always Wanted to Study Abroad

Waldner, who is originally from the Hutterville Hutterite community south of Aberdeen, has always known she wanted to study abroad.

“My parents both studied in Germany,” she said. “They always encouraged me to travel.”

Her first language is the Austrian dialect spoken in her community. Then when she started school at age 5, she learned English and German. This made her especially adept at languages, and in high school, she started learning Spanish on her own using Duolingo.

“My hobby has been kind of learning languages since I was a kid,” she said.

When she became a fan of K-Pop, she started learning Korean as well, which led to her decision to study abroad in South Korea.

While it was a huge change going from Aberdeen to Seoul, which has almost 10 million people, Waldner had studied the language and culture for almost four years. In that time, she learned that Korean culture isn’t that different from where she grew up.

“I realized Korean and Hutterite cultures are much more alike than either cultures are to American culture, actually,” she said.

For example, the Hutterite culture really sticks to tradition, she said, whereas in American culture, there’s a tendency to move toward the future, away from tradition.

Perhaps the highlight of the trip was that she got to see six different popular K-Pop artists perform for free, including Psy, the artist who performs “Gangnam Style.”

Benefits of Studying Abroad

When students such as Waldner come back from a study abroad experience, Blum said, the benefits include increased self-confidence and growth from being immersed in another country’s language and culture, becoming a better communicator, making lifelong friends, expanding your worldview, impressing your future employers, and becoming a global citizen.

They also make new networks, which can open doors—and potentially influence their future, like with Waldner, who plans to spend five years teaching English in South Korea after graduation. Studying abroad also led to success for recent graduates Karlie Brown, who accepted a teaching position in Lithuania after studying abroad in Chile, and Tawnie Williams, whose experience on 91��Ƭ��’s first Guatemala bottle school trip factored into her winning business idea.

“It just opens up so many opportunities and adds layers of experiences to the students,” Blum said.

What’s Holding You Back?

To other students considering studying abroad, Waldner asks: “Why not? What’s holding you back?”

The NSU Study Abroad office makes it easy, she said, and walks you through the process.

“If you’re able to, you should absolutely go for it. If you go somewhere for a week, to a semester or a year, it’ll teach you so much,” Waldner said. “You learn a lot. You’ll probably change. You might even find something that you really want to do. Even if it’s not the country that you go to, you could learn something about another country, or another career. There’s just so much opportunity for learning.”

For more information, visit the NSU Study Abroad office on the second floor of Lincoln Hall, or contact them by emailing studyabroad@91��Ƭ��.edu.

About 91��Ƭ�� State University

91��Ƭ�� State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, 91��Ƭ�� offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. 91��Ƭ�� also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the 91��Ƭ�� Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU 91��Ƭ��.