Maverick Student Voice

Minnesota State University, Mankato experiences from a student point-of-view.

[mavstudentvoice]

Closing The Final Chapter

As a college student, the thought of closing the final chapter of my academic journey is both exciting and nerve-wracking. It marks the end of an era filled with unforgettable memories, late-night study sessions, and the occasional all-nighter. But it also starts the beginning of a new adventure filled with endless possibilities. 

So, let’s take a moment to reflect on my college experience, and everything that made it special. 

First, I have to mention the friendships I made along the way. From my roommates to classmates, these friendships supported me through these last few years. I’m not sure I could have made it through without them. The saying “you make your forever friends in college” is true, but it takes time to fully understand. 

We cannot talk about college without mentioning the countless activities that shaped my experience. From joining Gamma Phi Beta to being nominated for Homecoming royalty to holding the social media assistant position for the University, these moments provided so much opportunity and allowed me to escape my studies for a while. 

As we prepare to close this chapter of our lives, it’s important to remember that the end of the college journey is the beginning of a new one. Whether we’re entering the workforce, furthering education, or traveling, we have a whole world of opportunity in front of us. 

So, let's raise a glass to the end of this chapter and the start of an exciting new adventure. Cheers to the memories we made, the friends we met, and the lessons we learned. Most importantly, cheers to our future! #RollMavs

Dylan

[mavstudentvoice]

From Harmful to Helpful: How to Transform Your Social Media Habits with 5 Simple Tips

Social media is influencing every aspect of our life. How we engage with the world has changed because of social media, from staying in touch with friends and family to keeping up with news and events. But there is rising awareness about how social media affects our mental health. Social media may promote a sense of belonging and connection, but it can also amplify emotions of isolation, worry, and sadness.

The impact of social media on mental health

Social media use has been connected to several mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. According to one study, using social media for longer than two hours a day is linked to greater feelings of loneliness and social isolation. According to a different study, using social media frequently is associated with a higher level of depression and anxiety.

Social media can be bad for our mental health for a few reasons. For one thing, it could lead to feelings of inadequacy and unrealistic standards. Social media frequently shows an edited and carefully selected version of people's lives, which might make us feel inadequate. Additionally, because bullying and online harassment are so prevalent, social media may be a source of negativity and poison. 

Healthy and constructive social media usage strategies

Even though social media can be harmful to our mental health, it can be beneficial depending on how you use it. Here are some tips for social media use that is both healthy and beneficial:

Set a time limit for yourself and stick to it when using social media. Keep your daily social media usage to no more than an hour.

Curate your feed by following users that make you feel inspired and motivated. Delete any accounts that make you feel self-conscious.

Be mindful of your feelings when you use social media. Take a break or leave your phone if you notice negative emotions or comparisons.

Social media can be used to connect with friends and family. Join communities and groups that reflect your interests and values.

Make the most of your socials to promote inspirational causes and messages. Share positive information and sources with others.

There are ways to benefit from social media while preserving our mental health. Being careful and strategic about how we use it, curating our feeds mindfully, and using the platform for positive connections and causes can make social media work for you instead of against you.

-Tyler

[mavstudentvoice]

What College Is Not

College was nothing like I thought it would be. But the crazy thing is, it was exactly what I needed it to be. I’ve learned the best things about myself and how to handle the worst. I created an entire new perspective on life and discovered the importance of putting yourself first. As I look back on my journey from high school to college, nothing comes close to the difference I found in what I thought I wanted versus what I desperately needed. When I look back now, before I say my final farewell to concluding my school years, I owe myself a tremendous thank you.

College is four years of developing self-dependency, and it’s hard. These are the fundamental years where we find and create ourselves. We decide where our beliefs and values lie. We lose people that we thought would be by our side through it all and gain those who really will be. We get reality thrown in our faces and figure out how to adapt to a world that isn’t protected by what we know, because as it turns out, we knew nothing.

Everything we thought we knew was something we have to reevaluate and decipher: 

• We learn that trust is earned, not automatically given. 

• We learn what love really is and what friends are not. 

• We develop boundaries and understand our self-worth. 

• We start to view the world differently, because now, it’s what we make of it.

College is not about textbooks and exams. It’s about becoming educated and gaining exposure through trial and error. We take a piece from every person we encounter—from our coworkers, professors, classmates, and peers—and use it to build on our own lives. Your college years change your life, and at the end of it, you’re looking at a completely different person in the mirror. A person that you’ve built up from the very bottom and transformed into someone you admire.

College is more than choosing which school to pursue and furthering your studies. College is a massive period of growing up and growth. There is no other time in your life when you will be old enough to make decisions but young enough to laugh off your mistakes. We have few responsibilities and yet hold all the power to make incredibly impactful changes. 

What comes after? I’ve almost made it through my years of identifying as a “college student”. What will I now be known as? Who will I be and what will I do? I don’t know, and that is utterly terrifying. We get to start all over again. Except now, with what the college experience has given us, we can see a real future and now know how to build the steps to get there.

You form an identity in college. Don’t adapt to life when you’re done—create the change you want to see and push yourself. Continue on stepping forward to growth after you step off that stage.

-Belle

[mavstudentvoice]

"Why I Quit Vaping: 4 Compelling Reasons You Should Too"

I understand the appeal of vaping as a college student. It’s a way to unwind, interact with friends, and escape the stresses of academic life. But I made the decision to stop vaping after a year. This is why.

When I started vaping

I first started vaping during my freshman year. Looking back, I can see just how it became a problem. It slowly became something I was doing all the time.

I used to be very against it. When I started, I was doing it only when I was going out or on the weekends at first. But eventually, it turned into me getting my own vape and doing it every day.

The first thing I would think in the morning is “where is my vape?” or “when I get out of class I can hit it”. For me, this made me feel more unhappy than happy with the decisions I made. It was just a problem and an addiction I didn’t want to have.

Why I stopped vaping

I want to share the thought process that helped me quit and I hope that if you vape you can try to stop, or at least cut back on how much you vape.

1.       I realized vaping was turning into a costly habit. I didn't want to spend money on something that might ultimately be bad for my health as a college student on a tight budget. I began to do the math and discovered that I was shelling out around a hundred dollars every month on disposables. I understood that I could use that money towards more worthwhile undertakings, such as investing in my education or saving for the future.

2.       I concluded that vaping did not align with my personal values. Every time I did it, I was doing it because it felt good and was an easy way to feel good. I also thought about my sister and realized that if she was vaping, I would be very disappointed in her. That was one of the biggest factors that helped me stop that bad habit of mine.

3.       I became aware that I didn’t have to vape even if all my friends did. I felt pressured as a freshman to blend in with my friends, many of whom were regular users. Yet as I became older and more self-assured, I understood that I didn't have to stick with the crowd. Even if my decisions were unconventional, I had the freedom to make them.

4.       I realized that vaping was negatively impacting my health. Despite the popular belief that vaping is a "safer" alternative to smoking, it's still not completely harmless. I found myself experiencing shortness of breath and wanted to continue to work out. I knew that I had to take care of my health, especially as a college student with a lot of demands on my time and energy.

I can say that it was a reasonable decision on my part to stop vaping after a year as a college student. Vaping may seem like a relaxing and fun way to unwind and interact with others, but the hazards and unfavorable effects may exceed the positive ones. I advise college students who vape to stop and think about why they do it and whether it will benefit them in the long term. By giving up vaping, you can put your values, finances, and health first and position yourself for success in the future. 

[mavstudentvoice]

How to Make the Most Out of Your College Years

College is a time of endless opportunities, where you can meet new people and gain skills that will be valuable in your future. With so much to do, and only four years’ time, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Based on my experience as I approach graduation, here are my top five tips on how to make the most of your college years.

Get Involved

College is a time for finding yourself, and one of the best ways to do that is by getting involved in extracurricular activities. Whether it’s joining a club, participating in intramural sports, or volunteering in the community, getting involved provides an opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills, and gain experience outside of the classroom.

Attend Networking Events

One of the biggest benefits of college is the access to a wide network of professionals and alumni. Attending networking events and career fairs can help you make connections and learn about potential job opportunities after graduation. You can also meet with our Career Development Center to help you build a resume, practice interview skills, and explore different career paths.

Build Relationships with Your Professors

Building relationships with professors can provide you with guidance, support, and opportunities that can help you succeed in college and beyond. Professors can help you navigate academic challenges, provide recommendations for internships or jobs, and help you develop skills that will be valuable throughout your career. Be sure to connect with them on LinkedIn for future connections!

Take Advantage of Campus Resources

Our campus offers a variety of resources that can help you succeed academically and personally. Take advantage of resources like tutoring services, writing centers, and mental health services to help you stay on track and manage the stresses of college life.

Balance Your Social and Academic Life

It’s essential to balance your academic work with your social life to make the most of your college years. While academics should always be a priority, it's also important to make time for social activities, whether that's joining a club or attending campus events. Balancing academics and social life can help you build strong relationships, relieve stress, and make your college years a memorable experience.

College is a time for growth, and with these tips you can make the most of your college years!

Dylan

[mavstudentvoice]

Nine Life Lessons I’ve Learned the Hard Way

Your 20s can be a time full of new opportunities, experiences, and independence. However, as you navigate this new phase of life, you will encounter challenges and difficult situations that push you to your limits. The lessons you learn during this time of your life will shape the person you will become. With that being said, here are nine life lessons that I learned the hard way. 

1. You will never win the race by running away from your problems.

Ignoring your problems may seem like a tempting option in the short term, but this will never lead to real solutions in the future. 

2. You can’t change those who don’t want to be changed.

Change is a personal choice. Not everyone is ready or willing to change. Every single person chooses a different path and has a different perspective. 

3. It’s not selfish to put yourself first.

Putting yourself first is an essential part of personal growth. At some point, you have to prioritize your own needs and wants. Set healthy boundaries for yourself and take care of yourself. 

4. You are a different reflection of the people you spend most of your time with.

The people we spend most of our time with have a big impact on our attitudes, behaviors, and overall view of the world. It’s very common to adopt the beliefs and habits of those who we surround ourselves with. When you spend time with motivated and positive people, you are more likely to cultivate those same traits within yourself. Choose your company wisely.

5. Failure is necessary.

Without failure, there is no opportunity for growth. Failure teaches you humility and the importance of perseverance. Embrace it and use your downfalls to push yourself further.

6. You will outgrow people.

As you grow older and experience different things, your values and priorities may change. It’s natural to outgrow those who no longer align with your vision for your future. It’s hard, but it’s a step toward becoming your best self.

7. You are living the life you created.

The life you are living right now is the result of choices and decisions you have made up to this point. Consciously and subconsciously, we create our own reality through our thoughts, beliefs, and actions. No matter how small the decision, it contributes to the life you are living. Take control of your life and make it align with your own goals and aspirations. 

8. It’s not all about you. 

Two people can experience the same event or circumstance and perceive it very differently based on their own perspectives. Your own biases and assumptions can limit your understanding of certain situations. Be open-minded and consider alternative views.

9. Your comfort zone is your worst enemy.

Staying in your comfort zone can limit potential growth. Taking risks and facing uncertainty can be uncomfortable, but it’s needed for personal development. Open yourself up to new possibilities. Don’t prevent yourself from reaching your full potential.

 I have a lot of my life left to begin. There are so many more starting points to reach and finish lines to cross in my future. The single thing I’m most excited about is growing. I’ll never stop making mistakes and learning lessons, and I think that’s something everyone should be grateful for.

-Belle

[mavstudentvoice]

5 Ways College Students Can Work on Personal Development (with Practical Tips)

Title:

5 Ways College Students Can Work on Personal Development (with Practical Tips)

As a current college student, I've learned that personal growth is crucial to being a better person. The road to self-improvement demands effort and dedication, whether you're focusing on your mental and emotional health or learning new skills.

These are just a few of the strategies that have benefited my personal development and helped me become a better version of myself:

1.  Set Goals: Setting goals is the first stage of personal development. Plan to move toward your goals after considering your short- and long-term goals. Put them somewhere you can see them frequently after writing them down. This will inspire you to act by giving you a sense of purpose and direction.

2.  Learn Something New: Learning new things is one of the easiest ways to improve yourself. Utilize the resources offered by the University, whether it is a new course, a new skill, or a new hobby. Gaining new knowledge can boost your self-esteem and broaden your outlook.

3.  Practice Self-Care: As a college student, it's easy to get caught up in the busyness of daily life. Be sure to give yourself space and engage in self-care. This can involve getting enough rest, eating well, exercising, and taking part in enjoyable activities.

4.  Develop Resilience: Setbacks are unavoidable, and college may be a hard period. Building resilience is essential to overcoming challenges and continuing to advance. Don't give up on your ambitions and embrace failure as an opportunity to progress.

5.  Cultivate Positive Relationships: Surrounding yourself with positive, supportive people can make a huge difference in your personal development. Find those who push you to be your best self, inspire you, and most importantly bring the best out of you. Stay away from toxic relationships that drain you.

Personal growth is a lifelong journey that requires dedication and effort. Making efforts to improve yourself as a college student can benefit your academic performance as well as your future ambitions. Make plans, pick up a new skill, take care of yourself, build resilience, and create healthy connections. These are merely a few of the numerous ways you can work on becoming the best version of yourself.

-Tyler

[mavstudentvoice]

#MavMatches 2023

Happy Valentine’s Day, Mavs! In honor of the day, we’ve asked our social media audiences to share love stories from campus with us. Your stories touched our hearts, and today we share the #MavMatches love with all of you. Thank you to everyone who shared your stories and photos!

Justin Adams:

My wife and I just got married back in May, and we actually met during welcome week of our freshman year at a “get to know your floor” activity in our floor’s common area. We both lived on Preska J3.

Morgan Milbradt Tufto: 

A #MavMatch made in Heaven… well, maybe more like the living room of a Rental house on Broad Street. It was the early spring of 2013—I was about to graduate, had job lined up in Florida, and thought I had my life figured out. I first met Noah through mutual friends. My roommate had begun dating one of his best friends, meaning he would be out wherever we went.

While neither of us was really interested at first, a night of flirting and laughing over a few Bud Lights at Blue Bricks somehow changed everything. It was easy to fall hard for Noah—scruffy beard, dapper sense of style, bright blue eyes, and of course studying comms at Minnesota State Mankato like myself.

But with a few more evenings filled with more laughs, he finally asked me out on a real date. He asked if I “wanted to grab some frozen yogurt or possibly a whole meal of food if that’s agreeable,” and needless to say I was ecstatic. We indeed got Froyo, but when we returned to my Broad Street abode, we weren’t ready for our date to end. I suggested we hit up my favorite spot for a drink, Lorentz Post 11 of the American Legion. The building was conveniently located across the street from my house, and he (somewhat reluctantly) followed me there.

Fast forward to 2023: We’re living in Florida, happily married, and grateful for our time with friends and one another at Minnesota State Mankato. While I don’t think I’ve found a better happy hour than the one at the Legion, I’ve found something so much better—a soulmate to share a lifetime of joy and memories with! 💜💛

Jan Gilpatrick Vokal:

Chris Vokal and I met fall of '96 (football/volleyball) while treating injuries in the athletic training room. That fall, we ended up being in a couple classes together (we both were computer science majors) and the rest is history! Thank you, Mankato State, (will always be Mankato State University to us) not only for the great college and athletic experience, but also for helping us find a forever partner to do life with. Wouldn't change it for anything!

Alli Holm:

Levi and I met at the end of their sophomore year at a party. I thought that Levi and his friends were all basketball players since they were so tall! It turns out, they weren’t. I went out on the deck of the house to ask her friend who “that guy” was (Levi was standing in the kitchen and you could see him through the window). My friend said “Who? That guy?” and pointed at Levi. Levi saw my friend point through the window and she was mortified and ran away! A few moments later, Levi introduced himself by “bumping” into me and saying “oops! Sorry about that! I’m Levi by the way” and the rest is history. We’re celebrating five years together this June and are currently engaged to be married in June of 2024!

Lissette Garza:

Patrick and I met while living a couple doors down from each other in Julia Sears. We became great friends right away and always used studying as an excuse to hang out around campus. We started dating part way into our second year at Minnesota State Mankato and have been together ever since!

Fun fact: he was my very first patient in the dental hygiene program!

We are class of 2021 graduates and are both pursuing graduate degrees now.

Ali Nelson:

My husband and I met at Minnesota State Mankato in 2006/07 when we were both journalism majors. We both worked for the Reporter and went out for the variety editor position in 2008. After I got the job as editor, he asked me on a date! We married in 2011 and have three beautiful kids!

Carly Bergerson:

My husband Jeremy and I met in 2005, freshman year for both of us at Minnesota State Mankato. We met through a mutual friend who lived on the same floor as Jeremy in Gage. We spent every free moment together from then on and got married in 2009, right after we both graduated with our B.S. degrees (him in accounting and myself in communication sciences/disorders). Since then we have had three beautiful children: Beau, Brynnlea, and Blakely. We live in Eagan, MN, but took the kids for a short trip down to Mankato in October and showed them ALL over campus, including where we met (although what was once Gage is now a parking lot). We ate at all our local favorites and had a blast! Hoping one of our own kids will be a future Mav some day!

Deb Newman:

Kevin and I met my first day of college back in the late 80’s. We eventually married and our two children graduated from the University; along with their respective spouses. Our son played on the Golf team and our son-in-law was an All-American Linebacker for the Mavs Football team.  We love this town and this school and are happy to give back as a family to the college that has helped shape our lives!  Today, we have been married 33 years!

Kristin Johnson: 

It was the first day of undergrad freshman year 2014 that I first saw the love of my life, now husband! I woke up late from my alarm the first day of school, threw on my glasses, shorts, and a t-shirt and sprinted to Armstrong Hall from Julia Sears for Comp 101. I got there just in time, but there was only a few computer spots left so I took the first one I saw. After sitting down I looked next to me and saw this really hot guy and I thought “OMG I can’t believe I just sat next to this hot guy looking like a hot mess.”

Well, next was an ice breaker game to get to know everyone in class. I ended up being his match for the game, so we ended up chatting and walking to the bookstore after class together. I invited him to hang out after class since it was a while until his next one, he ended up leaving his number on my dry erase board on my dorm room door, but I didn’t see it or know it was his! So, he thought I wasn’t interested.

After a month or so of talking during class and editing each other’s papers, I finally asked for his number, and he ended up asking me on a date that night. We went on nine dates in a row after that. We’ve been together (and now married) ever since October ‘14. Thanks Mavs.

Taylor Wagner:

My husband and I met in Mankato in December of 2018. He and my mom met through work and got to know each other. They would talk about college and how it was going. She mentioned to him that I was also going to Minnesota State Mankato. She told me he was a nice guy and that I should get to know him. A couple months later we met coincidentally and sent my mom a picture. Our story has grown since then as now we are husband and wife since August 2022.

Kendra Hansen:

My husband and I met in 2014 while we were neighbors at College Station. I was a poli sci major and he was criminal justice. We are now married with two kids and love bringing them past campus or to hockey games showing them where we spent our early years!

Cynthia Trevino:

John and I both started at Minnesota State Mankato in the Fall of 2010. Despite being in similar friend circles, we didn't actually meet until Spring 2011. Our first time meeting was in the CSU at a table in front of the upstairs food court. A mutual friend of both of ours casually introduced us, with no intention behind the introduction. We continued to encounter each other in our social circles. We soon realized we share the same birthday, March 9th. Fast forward to 2023, we have two beautiful children and are living the life.

Emily Waterston Heinis:

I met my spouse when I was an undergrad and he was in grad school. Mutual friends introduced us in 2004 and we've been together ever since. Together we have four degrees from Minnesota State Mankato, and I'm currently pursuing an M.F.A. as well, which will bring the total to five in 2024.

Alicia Goodloe:

My husband was in the dorm above me in McElroy H Hall. I remember him coming back from snowboarding second semester of our Freshman year and I just asked him to go to lunch at the Student Union really fast before I could think about it! I remember we ordered sun sandwiches on the lower floor. A week later we went to our first movie, again at the Student Union. Years later we have two brilliant girls! We are definitely a #MavMatch.

Missy Wenz Henderson:

Eric & Missy (Wenz) Henderson were both were freshman in the fall of 1987. Eric played football (O-lineman #79 and team captain) and I was a cheerleader. We got married in July of 1993. We will be celebrating our 30-year wedding anniversary this summer and are so thankful for the wonderful memories in Mankato, and that we found the love of our lives there! We have four adult kids and live in Rogers, MN.

Heather Sanders:

My husband and I met at Mankato State in 1995. I was a family consumer science major and Jason Sanders was a corrections major. We were set up by respective roommates that were also dating. Our first dates were at Sibley Park (fed the goats) and our first dance was at the "tross” (Albatross). We got married in 1997 and just celebrated 25 years in Banff, Alberta Canada. We have a son and daughter-in-law that reside in Fargo. Our youngest son is also a Mav and is set to Graduate in business management in May!

Cameron Jones:

My wife and I met at Minnesota State Mankato during my Junior year and her Senior year. We met through my best friend whom I met at the University as well. We have been together since 2013 and married in 2019. Just had our baby boy Jayden this past July 2022!

Liesel Nolen:

We first met playing a pick-up basketball game at Otto Rec Center. We were playing on opposing teams, but no one remembers who's team won to this day. We didn't reconnect until three years later when I was returning from an abroad experience and he offered to meet me at the airport. We continued talking, started dating, and finally got married this past July. He is a perfect fit for any life partner I could have imagined!

Derek Herzog:

My #MavMatch was sparked by a moment of love-at-first-sight in Spring 2017. Pictured is myself, (Derek), in the light blue with my reaction to Taylor on stage at the Mavathon in the CSU. We found our way to each other after graduating and started dating. Currently, we are engaged to get married this fall.

Marjorie Leger Saatzer:

I spotted Dan on campus in 1982, and knew he was the man for me. During summer session of '82, I was sitting outside the Student Union by the fountain. Dan came and sat down by me. Finally, when it was time to leave for class, Dan said, "Would you like to do something sometime?" I gave him my number. He called that night but couldn't remember my name and asked for Gloria. We married in 1983, and here we are 39 years later.

Tom Bergman:

Met my wife Jane in 1972 at a party at the SAE house. She was the sister-in-law to one of our assistant Football coaches. Married at the Newman Center on lower campus in 1974... still married 49 years this August. #MavMatches

Jason Bonnett:

It was the spring of '91 and we both were part of University Programs. I remember sitting in the office when she walked in wearing a pair of white tights thinking she looked beautiful. We were married three years later and have been inseparable ever since. All these years later she still looks great in her tights. #MavMatches

Josie and Jetzon:

We met in College Town while playing Corn Hole! It’s our forever running joke that we love Corn Hole now. We used to talk for hours in the library when we were supposed to be doing homework! Forever thankful for the Minnesota State Mankato library! Now we’re doing long distance since he graduated this past year, we plan to move to Colorado and go road tripping across the west coast this summer!

[mavstudentvoice]

The Reality of Internships

As students, we are often required to hold an internship position before graduating college. Most students find themselves wondering, are internships really that important? The answer is yes! From developing soft skills to making connections in your desired field, internships offer a blend of education and real-life experience that is crucial for future success.

An Opportunity to Grow

Internships offer students a huge growth opportunity in the work field. They offer students a chance to learn how to interview for future positions, how to work collaboratively, how to effectively communicate to a team, and how to show up as a professional in your field. While you may think that you have these skills mastered, holding an internship position allows you to practice them and truly master the skill.

Making Connections

Connections play a huge role in landing your dream job. Use your internship to expand your professional network! Personally introduce yourself to your teammates and connect with them on LinkedIn. Establishing good connections with your internship colleagues will help you make relationships with people who can serve as a reference or mentor in the future.

Determine Your Career Goals

Internships are a great time to determine if this is a profession that you want to do long term. For me personally, my internship helped me realize that I have a passion for social media marketing and will be pursuing a career in that field. Use your internship to learn what you like and don’t like about the position and use that information to guide your future job decisions.

In my opinion, the value of an internship cannot be overstated. They provide a chance for students to apply what they have learned in a classroom to real-life situations before heading for their first real-world position. If you are a student who has not considered an internship, you should research internships in your desired field - it is worth it!

Dylan

[mavstudentvoice]

The Start of Figuring Out the Rest of my Life

We all know the future is unpredictable. What we can do is control the present. With that being said, what is the one thing a person will always have?

A home.

I’m not talking about the physical kind with a roof over your head, I’m talking about the place you feel you belong. I’ve been chasing where I would find my new home my entire college career. 

Up until a few months ago, I felt lost and hopeless about the idea of graduating college. Where would I go? Do I stay in the comfort of the state I have lived my whole life, or do I turn towards change and new beginnings in a different place? I don’t have the perfect answer, but I have found a way to get there. 

When you think of home, what part about it makes you the happiest?

For me, it’s somewhere I can feel like I can grow. Throughout my college experience, I’ve moved three times, and each place I can associate with a different version of me. Although there is a lot of student housing, you cannot necessarily choose where you want to live and go to a college five states away.

I’ve had to find where the best place to create a new version of myself would be. It’s terrifying and exciting that I have the entire will in my hands to move where I please. Should I go back to my hometown, stay in Mankato, move to the cities, or entirely change states? I’ve had to think about every option and every scenario, and the best answer I came up with for myself is to keep moving.

I’ve always thrived in stressful situations and have gone through the most growth in unknown places. All I know is one thing—I want to continue pushing myself further when I graduate college. So, I will not be staying in Mankato.

How do you narrow it all down?

Starting off from the beginning, do your research. What are the most important factors to you of feeling at home? Is it the weather, staying close to family, having a welcoming community, or living in a fast- or slow-paced environment? There’s a lot you have to ask yourself about where you hope to see yourself in five years. What do you want that to look like?

Have an open and honest conversation with someone you trust.

A lot can change when you lay it all out for another mind to help you untangle yours. I’ve had multiple conversations with both of my parents, friends, and significant other. It’s overwhelming because there are a lot of different opinions and suggestions. At the same time, it’s thinking out loud about each different scenario.

When you talk with someone you trust, it allows you to get rid of some of the weight on your shoulders. Although the other person can’t actually take any of the weight off your shoulders that you’re feeling, they can help you manage it and sort it out.

Going forward from here

Change can be challenging. Especially when you feel like where you live is a big factor in continuing your life after college. My best advice is to find a place where you will feel you can grow. Figure out what drives you and pushes you to improve and succeed. Put yourself in a space that doesn’t allow you to fall back.

Good luck to you now and in the future. 

-Belle

[mavstudentvoice]

How Working Out Changed My Life (and Why You Should Start Doing It Too): 5 Tips to Get You Started

Why I Started 

I used to hate working out and did not ever even have the desire to go. I was content with my life at the time and didn't really feel the need to. But I got to a very dark point in my life and did not even want to do anything but sit at home. So one day I decided I was sick of that and wanted to do something about it. My friend Orin talked about how working out is fun and beneficial for yourself, so I decided to try it.

For the first months, I was not very comfortable and felt embarrassed. I was comparing myself to others and that was not helpful at all. The only person you should compare yourself to is you from yesterday.

So over time, I started to realize that I was changing. When I looked in the mirror and saw changes to my body it made me feel substantially better and made me want to go to work out a lot. Eventually when I got to college is when I started to see a real big change—I lost 40 lbs. and was now devoted to going. 

The Benefits of Working Out

According to Mayo Clinic Health System, “Up to 44% of college students reported having symptoms of depression and anxiety.” Exercise is a strong strategy for managing the symptoms of depression, along with many other benefits to exercising:

Regular exercise lowers the chance of developing chronic diseases including heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight.

It enhances mental health by lowering anxiety and stress.

Sleep patterns, which depression can disturb, can be improved with regular exercise.

Regular exercise has been found to increase the production of endorphins, which are brain chemicals that act as natural mood enhancers.

Regular exercise can also increase energy and raise self-esteem, enhancing general well-being.

Exercise can help people shift their attention away from negative emotions and thoughts and give them a sense of success when they reach a goal. In general, frequent exercise is a crucial part of living a healthy lifestyle.

Simple Steps to Start

1. Set realistic goals. Start by setting small, achievable goals and make sure you have the tools and resources to achieve them. 

2. Find a workout friend. Having someone to exercise with can make going to the gym more enjoyable and help keep you motivated. 

3. Track your progress. Track your progress by keeping a journal or using an app to help you stay organized. This can help you stay motivated and see your progress over time. 

4. Choose activities you enjoy. If you do not enjoy the activities you're doing, you're more likely to give up. Choose activities that are enjoyable and motivating so you are more likely to stick with them. 

5. Reward yourself. Reward yourself with small treats when you reach certain goals. This can help keep you motivated and remind you of the progress you are making.

I wanted to share my personal experience about how working out has made a significant impact on my life that I could not have had if I had never started. I still have a long way to reach the goals I have set, but working out (as dumb as it might sound) made me optimistic in life and gave me something to look forward to every day. I highly recommend you just start even if you have no desire to go as you may understand why I feel like this, and many other people do too. So just start, you might as well try. If I can do it, anyone can!

-Tyler 

[mavstudentvoice]

Starting My Business as A Full-Time College Student

I remember being in elementary school and begging my friends to have photoshoots with me. I loved to take pictures and capture all my memories in photo form. I wish I could tell my younger self that she now has a business that helps brands show their awesome moments and tell the story of their products and services!

Finding My Passion

During my sophomore year of college I got the opportunity to start working on the University’s social media team. I was so excited to start, I had a million ideas of content and strategies we could try.

I had truly found my passion. I love everything about this job. Generating content ideas, seeing the ideas come to life through our creative visions, and then sharing it with the students, staff, alumni, and all others who love Minnesota State Mankato. So, if I love it so much, why not start my own business doing this for other brands?

Okay, I’m Going To Do It

It had never occurred to me that I could turn my passion for social media into a career. I am very lucky to have some amazing, supportive people in my life who pushed me to start my own business. I took a leap of faith and did it.

Starting Dylan Mackenzie Media LLC

The very first thing I did was make a logo. Now, that isn’t necessarily the typical first step when starting a business, but I was excited and couldn’t wait any longer!

I have a great support system in my life to help me along this journey. My aunt is an amazing entrepreneur and helped me get my business on its feet. Thankfully, it was a smooth process and I got to quickly begin the fun stuff!

Since starting Dylan Mackenzie Media, I have been busy creating content and learning the ropes of being a business owner. The last few months have been filled with learning, bringing creative visions to life, and personal growth.

Balance

How do I begin to juggle being a full-time student, a business owner, working on the University’s social media team, being a good friend, and all of my other responsibilities? The simple answer is I don’t! Life is all about balance. Some weeks I might be on top of my game, completing every project on time with no error, and generating so many great ideas. The next week might be a little rough, but that’s okay! We aren’t meant to have perfect days all the time.

I hope my story gives someone the extra push they need to follow their dreams, and I’m excited to see where this venture takes me next.

Dylan

[mavstudentvoice]

Detangle your Brain

Brain dumping is something everyone needs to do, but not many try it. Remember that time you said you wouldn’t need to write a grocery list because you’ll remember the few things needed in your kitchen? Assuming yes, you may also have a few other things in your head that you said you’d remember but forgot. Write it down! Carrying around so much information in your head can be exhausting. It started to get overwhelming for me, until a friend told me about brain dumping.

What is brain dumping?

Brain dumping is taking five minutes to sit alone with a pen and paper and let those things you forgot about come back to you. Once it’s on paper, you don’t have to store it anymore! (Just don’t throw the paper away.) It allows you to free up space in your brain and begin to take in new ideas without being overloaded.

What can you brain dump about?

You can brain dump anything. That grocery list, weekly chores, due dates, projects, and more. More times than not, everything comes all at once, so I like to break it down. This makes it easier to remember what you’re trying to remember, too!

How I brain dump:

Before I begin, I write down a few topics that are spaced out on the paper. I also make sure to always title the paper. If I leave the paper in a notebook, I can easily find it. I do suggest putting it somewhere you can actually see though.

Usually, I will do a weekly section where I have miscellaneous things to complete throughout the week. I’ll jot down random things to clean, chores, meals I want to make, etc. I also do a section for work tasks and appointments. Here I make a list of due dates, nearby projects, and creative ideas. I also like to have my planner near me so I can overview the current month.

My last section is always the hardest but feels the best to write down. This section is for things that are happening in the year or upcoming months. These things are usually here instead of in my planner so I can work towards it and get a head start. It’s a constant reminder for me that there is always something I could be doing rather than nothing.

The perfect timing

The semester has just started and it’s a perfect time to take five minutes and brain dump. Getting all your thoughts on paper and clearing your head before you have to pack it full of information again is only going to help you succeed.

Best of luck with your semester!

-Belle

[mavstudentvoice]

A New Student Voice: Tyler

Home & Family

My name is Tyler Harrison, and I am from Chaska, MN. I have lived there my whole life until now as Mankato has become my new home 

Chaska was an average size town and is still constantly growing. I have had many great memories there. Chaska is known for hosting the Ryder Cup, which is a men's golf competition between teams from Europe and the United States. Minnesota will host the 47th Ryder Cup in 2028.

My mom and dad are some of the best parents in the world and have always supported me. I have two great sisters as well. Kylie is my older sister and she just graduated from the University of Minnesota and is now going to school to become a physician’s assistant. My younger sister’s name is Katelyn and she goes to school at Breakaway Academy (if you don’t know that is a hockey school). 

Sports

In high school, I played hockey every day. I played goalie every year on varsity during my junior and senior years.

I also played baseball during my first year. I did not enjoy that as much as other sports but still had a fun time playing it.

Just for fun, I played Lacrosse in my junior year. My friends and I thought it would be fun to try lacrosse and so we did. I was a goalie and started for junior varsity. The coach offered me a varsity spot for the next year, but I decided to quit because I did not enjoy it that much. 

Transition to College

The transition from high school to college was hard for me during my freshman year. I was very depressed going into it. I want to make sure that others know that it can be very intimidating but can be utterly worth it if you try.

For me, one of the major things that helped me was my supportive friends and family. Another big help was getting to experience all these new opportunities. I also decided to start working out when I got to college and that helped a lot! Over the first five months, I lost 40 lbs. I just kept working hard and focusing on my physical and mental health.

One of the most important things you need to focus on in college or life is your mental health. Having good relationships with my friends, working out, and putting myself out there really helped change my first year.

This current year I am a sophomore and have had so much fun living and attending school at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I have made many new connections and cannot wait to continue growing and learning. 

Hobbies

My main hobby as of right now is working out. I currently work out six days a week and am trying to improve myself every day.

Another hobby I have started is rock climbing here. I did not know we had such a cool climbing wall at our school until now and it has been a lot of fun for me and my friends.

This winter I will also be skiing a lot at Mount Kato. I am just waiting to find a fair price for skis, but I love skiing and I hope that this winter I will be able to ski a lot. 

I hope you enjoyed learning about me, and if you relate, I hope you can take something away from this. 

Tyler

[mavstudentvoice]

Creating Healthy Eating Habits as a College Student

Lately, I’ve been struggling with eating foods that are good for my body. I’ve fallen into a bad habit where I eat for convenience rather than for my health. I want to overcome this bad habit because I can already feel a significant change in my overall health when I choose to eat foods that don’t benefit me in any way. My intention with this blog post is to help me create new habits, and help you find new ones!

I’m not the grocery store’s biggest fan

If you enjoy your time at the grocery store, this new habit may not be for you, but it’s always something fun to try!

There’s something about going grocery shopping that is not fun for me. I dread the days I have to go and wait until the very last meal I could make before I go. It really only takes less than an hour, so I’m not sure what my problem is with them, I would rather just go online! If you’re an online shopper, shopping online for groceries could be a great idea for you. When you online grocery shop, you’re able to see everything in your cart instead of only what is on the top. You also can easily delete a grocery item vs. walking it all the way to its proper shelf.

An additional advantage to online grocery shopping is that you don’t have to wander around the store to find one ingredient, you can simply search for it in the search bar!

I’m a sucker for snacks

I love my snacks. I tend to eat smaller meals because I snack so much, but it’s totally fine if they’re healthy. (right?) Take 20 minutes out of your day to cut up vegetables or fruits for the week so you can easily access them when you want them. Fast foods and unhealthy foods are eaten so often because of the convenience. If you cut out the time factor, healthy foods can eventually become a convenience for you.

I’ll admit I’m not a cook

Baking is my thing, but cooking is not. I don’t like making meals because they usually turn out too big and I refuse to eat leftovers. (I promise I never waste; I hand them off to my boyfriend.) My workaround to this bad habit of never making a meal is making my own recipe book. Once a month, I’m going to try to spend a few hours looking for recipes that interest me and take the time to convert the measurements down. This way, I eliminate my excuse of not making a meal because I don’t want the leftovers. 

Plus, you can personalize your own recipe book online! Fill it with recipes that sound appealing. If you don’t know where to find recipes, Pinterest can make you hungry real fast. 

I usually wake up after my third alarm

I love my sleep, which unfortunately causes me to want more of it and sleep in. I am slowly learning to wake up earlier so I can make more time for myself throughout the day. My usual breakfast is two granola bars and coffee. “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. Is it? I’m not sure but I’ll believe anything if it gets me out of bed earlier.

Take the extra 15 minutes to make yourself something nutritious. Wake up 15 minutes earlier so you can start your day with a healthy breakfast. Maybe you can use another 15 minutes to pack yourself lunch! The point is to make time for your body’s needs. Fill yourself with good foods and start making these habits now before you make them into a hard-to-break routine. Eventually, you will start to feel the effects of what your health teacher warned you about.

I hope a month from now I’ll have these new habits down. If you’re in a similar situation, I hope you try them and go on this journey with me! Best of luck. 

-Belle

[mavstudentvoice]

Preparing for Finals Week

Now that Thanksgiving break is over, it is time to prepare for finals week. Finals week can be a very stressful time for students but with proper planning, preparation, and studying you can master the week. As a senior in college, I have had my fair share of finals. Here is my advice to you!

My first piece of advice is to write out your schedule before finals week begins. Make sure to include all presentations, exams, and papers.

Be sure to also take time to clean up your living space. You may feel like you don't have time, but it is really helpful to study in a clean space. An organized space equals an organized mind!

Between studying and projects, make some time to spend a day taking care of yourself. Take a long shower, drink some hot chocolate and enjoy the calmness around you. This will help recharge your energy levels before the long week ahead.

And of course, give yourself plenty of time to study. Do not wait until the last minute to begin studying for your finals, that will cause unnecessary stress. When you write out your schedule, be sure to schedule in plenty of time for studying, a time for cleaning, and a time to take care of yourself. Know when you plan to do each and stick to your schedule.

Finally, believe in yourself! If you study and prepare well, your finals should go smoothly.

Good luck, #MavFam. With proper preparation, you've got this!

Dylan

[mavstudentvoice]

My Favorite Food to Bring to a Thanksgiving Dinner

Is Thanksgiving even Thanksgiving without a pie? My favorite thing to bake is pie; possibly the only thing I bake besides the occasional chocolate chip cookies and muffins. The fun thing with pie is there are so many kinds you can make, and even if you mess it up, it still tastes delicious. I typically make apple and pumpkin for Thanksgiving and cherry and blueberry for Christmas.

If I had to pick my favorite, it’d be blueberry. I wanted to share my favorite recipe I use to make a great blueberry pie. It’s really not as hard as it seems, and the outcome is totally worth it. Plus, it’s the perfect time to get the ingredients gathered and make one for your family or friends for the holiday!

The ingredients

·  2 pie crusts (you can make your own, but I use the Pillsbury pie crust for convenience)

·  32 oz of Blueberries

·  1 Lemon

·  ½ cup of granulated sugar

·  1 tsp of ground cinnamon

·  4½ tbsp of all-purpose flour

·  2 tbsp of cornstarch (this helps thicken the filling)

·  1 tbsp of milk

·  1 egg

The instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.

2. Place your first pie crust into a 10” diameter by 2.5” height.

3. Combine the 6 cups of blueberries, 2 tbsp of cornstarch, 1 tsp of lemon zest, 2 tbsp of lemon juice, 4½ tbsp of all-purpose flour, the ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 tsp of cinnamon.

4. Toss and mix all the ingredients. Then transfer them onto your pie crust in the pie pan.

5. Make sure the mixture is mounded slightly at the top.

6. Using your second pie crust, cut it into even strips. A good number of strips is 10 or 12.

7. Using the strips, you will create a lattice crust.

8. Pinch the edges to seal the strips to the bottom crust.

9. Mix together 1 tbsp of milk and 1 egg to make an egg wash. Brush the egg wash onto the lattice crust, and sprinkle with sugar.

10. Bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know is done when the blueberries are bubbling out and the crust is a golden brown!

Happy holidays!

-Belle