After graduating high school in May 2021, and exhausted from virtual learning during the COVID pandemic, I chose to attend an expensive private university in the Twin Cities believing it represented the highest value and could provide me with the skills I needed to have a successful career. I was excited to start the next chapter of my life. I felt confident in my decision. 

I signed up for several clubs there, joined study groups and tried to get to know the people in my dorm. Even with all that, I had an unexplainable gut feeling that the school I chose was not right for me. At the end of the day, I felt my university only saw me as a number. 

A few weeks into my spring semester is when I started researching other universities.  

After checking out the BSU website and being drawn to the beautiful scenery on campus, I signed up for a tour. I applied right after seeing campus in person. 

I could not deny my nerves when I was accepted to BSU and moved into Birch Hall. What if I had made a mistake? Did I jeopardize my future career by leaving a prestigious university? Will I belong? I reminded myself that regardless of how I felt at the time, I needed to put myself out there and get involved. I went to the Beaver Organization Bash, attended events and found common interests with my classmates.  

BSU was notably different from my previous university in the Twin Cities. I could walk across the street and enjoy the fresh air at Diamond Point Park. I enjoyed the view of Lake Bemidji on my walk to class. Most nights I could even see the stars. My professors welcomed me, and I found it easier to connect with them thanks to the smaller class size.

My BSU education is not less valuable because it is more affordable than other universities. The reality is my communication studies program is taught by passionate and qualified professors. I have been challenged academically and developed skills I did not have before. The staff at BSU have been helpful, welcoming and kind. I love that the campus is filled with natural beauty.  

Regardless of your background or where you started your college journey, I strongly recommend exploring Bemidji State University as an option for higher education. The experience is nothing short of life changing. 

About the author

Hi, my name is Charley, and I am a senior communication studies major. My position as a content writer for the Office of Communications and Marketing gives me the amazing opportunity to showcase Bemidji State and highlight student achievements. You can expect a variety of new content from me this year, so stay tuned!