MSUM’s unbeatable affordability and quality education attracts Kansas student

Freshman Megan Oyerly is from Topeka, Kansas, but one thing specifically brought her to MSUM: value.

Upon high school graduation, Megan was initially considering two colleges—Kansas State University and the University of Lincoln Nebraska. Growing up in the Catholic school system and sitting in small class sizes her whole life, Megan thought she wanted to attend a larger school. However, after touring her first-choice universities, she quickly realized a larger campus wasn’t something she’d enjoy.

In-State Tuition For All

Megan had always been curious about attending an out-of-state college. When she began researching, Minnesota State University Moorhead stood out as a great fit for her.

Taking a virtual tour allowed Megan to get a feel for campus before making the eight-and-a-half-hour journey. During her in-person tour, Megan immediately enjoyed the close-knit size of the campus and how welcoming the students, staff and faculty were.

“It was so nice to have people be so attentive, even though I was only touring. It made me feel comfortable and that they really wanted me on campus,” Megan shares.

Megan’s decision to attend MSUM was solidified when she was granted in-state tuition; something all degree-seeking students receive at MSUM.

Megan is an aspiring advertising and public relations major and is actively involved in campus organizations, including secretary for SPECTRUM, secretary for Dragon Scales, and a member of PRSSA. Megan was also involved in SMART (Student Mentoring Academic Resource Team) Start Program last fall which assists first-year students in their transition to college life at MSUM.

“SMART Start was so beneficial for me because I realized 80 other students were in the same boat as me,” Megan says.

Through SMART Start, Megan explored campus before the bustle of the semester began. She found resources that fit her, like the Rainbow Dragon Center and the Women’s Center, both of which have significantly impacted her freshman journey.

“MSUM does a great job of promoting the resources available. They let students know that they’re here for our use, and it’s been very helpful for me,” she says.

Moving more than 500 miles from home is no small feat for an 18-year-old, but Megan has quickly made Moorhead her second home. Although initially nervous, she’s now comfortable and can easily see herself at MSUM for the next three years.

“I realized about a month into fall semester that I had a life completely outside of Kansas, and it’s crazy to me,” Megan says.