Careers & Internships Stories

Ben Naylor (‘16) and Aaron Neppl (‘18), graduates of MSUM’s construction management program, are now transforming visions into reality by leading Moorhead community construction projects.

Savanna Hohenstein, from landlocked Western Minnesota, pursued her passion for marine biology at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM), where she engaged deeply with the Marine Ecology Lab. After co-authoring a research paper and dedicating herself to the lab, she graduated in 2020 and undertook multiple unpaid internships in Florida and Mississippi. Her dedication led her to a full-time role as a Rescue Biologist at Clearwater Marine Aquarium in 2022, where she now leads rescue efforts for injured marine animals. Her journey, marked by resilience and adaptability, inspires MSUM's new Marine Aquarist certificate program, encouraging future marine biologists.

Inspired by her mother’s career, Audri Lagge ’19 also got her construction management degree at MSUM and quickly became a Senior Project Manager with a rapidly-growing construction company in Fargo, N.D., which led to her being recognized as one of Prairie Business’ Top 25 Women in Business in 2024.

Are you curious about double majoring? Combining the right majors can boost your academic experience and open up more career opportunities.

MSU Moorhead BFA alum Tom Weis uses his unique background to make an impact in the world of global security. He stays connected to campus, occasionally returning to share advice with current MSUM School of Art students.

MSUM alumni Morgan Laite (’17) and Maggie Thoemke (’16, ’19) met when they found themselves working at a job neither of them enjoyed. Bonding over their shared experience at MSUM, similar personalities, and the fact that they were born nine days apart, they quickly became close friends.

Joseph Lewis’s journey from Liberia, West Africa, to the Minnesota State University Moorhead campus to the corridors of Yale University demonstrates his academic prowess and achievement.

David Foss' unusual combination of computer science, English, and business administration at MSUM allowed him to enjoy a wide variety of roles in computer systems and banking.

Hasslen Construction Co., Inc. owner Brent Hasslen ‘94 is building a legacy that spans generations.

Laura Odgren earns her Specialist in School Psychology in a creative partnership through MSUM and schools.

Julie Maahs, assistant director for career readiness, relies on her extensive resume and career program experience to help students develop key career readiness skills. 

West Fargo recently welcomed Irankuna Penina Adel and Suham Ali, elementary school companions and Moorhead college graduates, to its police force.