Student of the Month: Noah Erichsen

 

Our October Student of the Month (yes, we're a bit late there) is Noah Erichsen! 

Noah is a Freshman from Ellsworth, KS. He's majoring in History and Political Science. In addition to being a member of the Honors College, FHSU marching band, and numerous other student organizations, Noah's BIG goal this year has been his campaign for the Kansas House of Representatives! We see students going above and beyond all the time—that's why we're here, but this is quite an undertaking for a guy who just started college. He's up for the challenge, he's motivated, and he will make a difference, we have no doubt about that.

You can read more about what motivated Noah's political aspirations from our friends at Tiger Media Network here.

We got a few minutes of Noah's time and asked him some easy questions, no political debates needed for HC student of the month. ;) 

Who would you most like to meet, and why? 

The person I would most like to meet would be James Stewart, but I would like to meet him in his capacity as George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life. I really admire, even though the character George Bailey is fiction, the morals and overall helpfulness he portrays. I think I could learn a moral or two from him and a lot of great takeaways on how to take helpful and thoughtful to a new level. A lesson in unselfishness and how much you mean to others can go a long way.

What three things can you not live without? 

Three things that I could not live without would be my flat pillow, ice tea, and the National Parks.

If you could travel in time, would you go forward or back?

If I could travel in time I would 100% go backwards and visit the ancient world like Rome and Greece.

What’s your favorite class and/or favorite thing about FHSU so far?

My favorite class so far this year would have to be my two classes taught by Dr. Guha – History classes. The thing I enjoy about the classes is it isn’t just about history. It is about the ancient connections that we still see at work today. How the whole world, despite our differences, is actually closely connected. And my other favorite thing is just all my Honors College friends, I love having our get togethers, and of course (even though I complain about it) I enjoy band.

Best of luck in your election today, and keep up the good work! 

"Just remember, Fievel - one man's sunset is another man's dawn. I don't know what's out there beyond those hills. But if you ride yonder... head up, eyes steady, heart open... I think one day you'll find that you're the hero you've been looking for." 

~ Wylie Burp, An American Tale: Fievel Goes West (voiced by Jimmy Stewart)

Student of the Month: Ella Burrows

 

Our September student of the month is Ella Burrows! If you haven't met her on campus yet, chances are you will. She's everywhere! 

Ella is a freshman from Satanta, KS, majoring in Political Science and minoring in Communications. In addition to being a member of the Honors College she is involved with the FHSU American Democracy Project, Young Democrats, Pre-Law Society, is a member of the Law, Politics, and Justice Learning Community, and is a newly elected student senator in the SGA! She will soon be volunteering with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kansas. 

It's always a joy to see students finding their passion and we're very proud to see how Ella has jumped into so many awesome opportunities here on campus! These are such valuable experiences and she's only just begun. 

Let's learn more: 

Who would you like to meet most, and why? 

I would love to meet Steve Kornacki, the MSNBC News election analyst, because I love watching him cover all of the different elections and running the board. 

What are 3 things you can't live without? 

Mac & cheese cups, the Sonic app, and my dogs!

If you could travel in time, would you go forward or back? 

I would love to travel back in time and re-experience some of my favorite memories!

What is your favorite class and favorite thing about FHSU so far?

My favorite class is Orientation to Political Science and my favorite thing about FHSU is the ice cream machine in McMindes. (And my second floor of Tiger Village BFFs.)

 

#ItTakesaTigerVillage

Senior Profile: Ryan Schultz

Ryan is from Dodge City, KS and is majoring in Psychology with minors in Organizational Communication and Chemistry. He plans to earn a Master's in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and later work toward a PhD in Social Psychology. He'd like to teach at a university to make an impact on students, like his professors have done for him. 

Ryan has served in many roles on campus during his time at FHSU-- VIP Ambassador, Honors College Peer Mentor, Honors College Recruitment and Outreach Coordinator, and numerous committee positions. He has a knack for finding his way to the simplest solution to multi-layered issues. It is a welcome and valuable talent when doing the sometimes arduous work of a committee. He's been instrumental in guiding the Honors College in decisions that best serve our students. We're eternally grateful for his input and perspective.   

"I would not be here without the strong support of my friends and family, my wonderful professors, and of course, the wonderful members of the Honors College with a very special shout out to Kevin and Kathay. 😏"

Ryan, we thank you for your work and your friendship. It's been a joy to see you find your path. The HC will be a different place without you! But you're always a text away. ;) 

Senior Profile: Caden Frank

Caden is from Omaha, Nebraska and graduated last December with his degree in Leadership Studies. He is currently in the Higher Education Student Affairs Master's program at FHSU, and looks forward to a career in higher ed. 

Caden thanks his professors and his boss, Pat McGinnis, for supporting him in carving his own path in the world. 

He has found a love of coaching during his time as the assistant soccer coach for the Hays High soccer program. For those that know Caden, this is no surprise. He has a talent for making people feel welcome and energized. 

Caden was a common visitor in the Honors offices and assisted with many prospective student visits. He is an amazing advocate for the program and supporter of his fellow students, driving everyone to do their best. His talents for coaching, and his future career in higher education, are all a perfect match for his enthusiasm and friendly nature.  

We are very pleased to have him stick around FHSU for a little longer!

Senior Profile: Trevor Pfeifer

Trevor Pfeifer is from Hays and is earning his degree in Informatics, Digital Media, and Journalism, as well as a Leadership Studies Certificate. 

Trevor plays lead guitar in his band Company 11. If you haven't seen them at Hays events, you probably will! You know he's READY to get out and play some live events this summer!

Trevor was recently awarded 1st place in Entertainment Program in Undergrad TV for “Attic Sessions-Ryne Timken”, which you can see on YouTube. He was also recently nominated for the FHSU Torch Award. 

Trevor is a modest man full of music, great hair, and few words. So you know he means it when he says: "Thanks to mom and dad for everything."  

We'll be seeing you out there on the stage and on the road, Trevor! 

Senior Profile: Natalie Egan

Natalie is from Shawnee, KS and she will be receiving her Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Public Relations and Advertising Emphasis. She was a member of the track team as a freshman and now shares her knowledge and skills as assistant volleyball coach for Ellis High School. She will be starting her second season next fall. 

Natalie also provides private lessons to athletes and loves mentoring young volleyball players. She plans on committing more time to coaching once she graduates and wants to create a platform on social media to share knowledge of the sport with young players and showcase the athletes she works with. She hopes to be able combine her work in Digital Marketing and her passion for coaching into a career. 

Her nearest and dearest have been influential and supportive during her time as an undergrad. "My parents have been extremely supportive in all of my endeavors and I owe a lot of my success to them. My boyfriend Dylan has also been incredibly supportive and has helped me achieve so much." 

She is currently working at Global 3D Arts in Hays as their Digital Marketing Manager, and will start full-time there after graduation. Natalie plans to eventually move back to Kansas City to pursue a job in Public Relations and Advertising.

Nothing makes us feel quite the same kind of proud as when we see students able to combine their experience and hard work with their true passions; Natalie is doing just that! We wish you the best of luck, here and over in KC! We know you'll do a great job! 

Senior Profile: Samual Neff

Sam is from Salina, majoring in Accounting with a minor in Management Information Systems (MIS). He will be starting as a staff accountant in the fall at KCoe Isom in Salina. Sam was a nominee for the 2021 FHSU Torch Award. 

Sam calls his advisor, Misty Schartz, an "incredible supporter." They are both spreadsheet enthusiasts and "aggressive" planners! "Her expertise in helping me craft my schedules and understand what I needed to complete to graduate was unmatched. She also extended me an opportunity to work at the KSCPA Inspire Business Camp which allowed me to make a ton of professional connections. Every one of her classes also renewed my interest in the field of accounting."

Sam has committed himself to numerous positions on campus, including President of Fort Hays Honor Society & Success and Engagement Coordinator for the Honors College. He has served on multiple (maybe ALL) of the Honors College committees, always providing the best student perspective and guiding the outcomes that serve and enhance the Honors student experience. (He has also helped sort out many an Honor Society and Honors College mail mix up.) 

Sam embodies all of our mission pillars: academic excellence, leadership, engagement, and personal growth. He has been a resource for current and prospective students for all his time with us, and he has been invaluable for the Honors College staff, especially in uncertain times. Sam brings kindness, thoughtfulness, and a steady head to any situation and he will be very missed. (Sam also sometimes brings the most beautiful and delicious homemade pies...this was a hidden secret for far too long. He is full of talent and surprises.) We wish you all the success in the world, Sam! 

Senior Profile: Sierra Eichman

Sierra is from Hays, and is majoring in Biology (Health Professions) and minoring in Chemistry and Psychology. She has been accepted into the Doctorate of Occupational Therapy program at the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, KS. Her dream job would be working as an Occupational Therapist in a pediatric setting. 

Sierra has been involved all over campus during her time at FHSU. She has been a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha for 3 years, including serving as VP of Alumna and Heritage. She is a member of the Fort Hays Honor Society, from which she will graduate with EXTRA Honors; she was elected VP of Virtual Relations for the Fort Hays Honor Society and held this position for 3 years. She was also selected to attend the National Conference on Student Leadership in 2019. 

Sierra was also an FHSU VIP Ambassador, a member of the Tiger Team, Encounter, and the Biology Club. She has assisted in orientation events, HCI, and student retention efforts through her job in Student Affairs. She has enjoyed working alongside FHSU administrators that care so deeply about student success. 

This level of commitment and engagement is a big part of what makes Sierra such an amazing Honorable: "During my time at Fort Hays, I have enjoyed giving back to the community that has given me so much. I have immensely enjoyed being involved within the community through Celebration Community Church. Events such as Night to Shine, VBS, and Kids Camp have been so much fun to help with. I also was able to travel to Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic on mission trips through C3 and I’m so grateful for the cultural and spiritual experience they have provided me with. I am beyond blessed."

"I’d like to give a huge shout out to my family who has supported me through each and every step of my educational journey. I’m so thankful for Momma Sheila, Dad, Derek, and Andrew. In addition, my late grandmother encouraged me to pursue my dreams through education and I want to honor her as I reflect on my collegiate experience. I wish she was here to watch me graduate and begin working toward my doctorate.
I’d like to thank Kevin, Kathay, and the second family I have gained through the Honors College. I appreciate your hard-work and dedication. I’d also like to thank each and every educator I have had during my time at Fort Hays. Thank you for challenging me and inspiring me to be the best version of myself." 

Sierra makes it so easy to support her because she's always ready to jump in, do the work, and make a difference. Good luck to you Sierra--you're going to raise the bar in your field if those other OTs want to keep up with you! 

Senior Profile: John Egan

 John is a Finance major from Wichita; he also earned certificates in Accounting and Insurance. He's been named a finalist for both Finance Student of the Year and the FHSU Torch Award. This summer he will be doing a second internship with Travelers in their Operations Leadership Development Program (OLDP), and he hopes to pursue an MBA in the near future. John will wait to begin his full-time career until summer of next year after backpacking Europe with his two little brothers! 

John hopes to get out and explore the world a bit but plans to come back and be near his family. "My family has always been there to support me through all my ventures. Specifically, my parents and grandparents who are excellent role models and sacrificed so much for me and my brothers to have great lives and education."  

We know John works hard so now is the perfect time to play hard. Be safe, be wise, be adventurous, and don't do anything we wouldn't do! 😉 Congratulations!

Senior Profile: Carlie Sanders

Carlie is from Minneapolis, Kansas and is graduating with her degree in Nursing and was named a Dane Hansen Leaders of Tomorrow Scholar. She will be starting an RN position in the Orthopedic Unit for KU Med and continuing on to obtain her license as a Family Nurse Practitioner. 

Carlie is looking forward to serving her new community in Kansas City. "My goal is to obtain my Family Nurse Practitioner license in the next five years and return to my hometown community that has given me so much. Throughout my time at Hays I have discovered a passion to encourage and serve women and the pediatric population through the skills that I have been given. I look forward to partnering with community resources and my local churches to continue to interact with these people and groups and form meaningful relationships." 

Carlie values her Hays community for their contribution to her success; "From the Honors College, Nursing classmates & staff, Encounter family, and husband & friends I would not have finished without them. Their encouragement to keep striving to do better and make the most of my time in Hays was a big part of my success." 

With her ever-present warm smile and positive attitude, Carlie will be a welcome sight to anyone she cares for. She wants only the best for people and there couldn't be a better line of work to give her time and energy to. We wish you all the best; you'll do great! 

Senior Profile: Nathaniel Hunt

Nathaniel is from Wichita, and graduated last fall with a Bachelor's of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting. He has been working at Allen, Gibbs & Houlik CPA firm since January of this year. 

During his time with the Honors College Nathaniel served as an Honors Ambassador, and Outreach Coordinator. He was a member of the Tiger Marching Band and Pep Band. He served on the executive board of the Intrafraternity Council (IFC), as VP of Fundraising for Alpha Kappa Psi, and as Publicity Coordinator for the Honor Society. 

His advisors, Cole Engel and Anthony Gabel, provided him with the support and advise he needed, not only for classes, but for what steps he needed to make to meet his career goals and aspirations. 

Nathaniel has a big ol' Tiger gold heart and supports the heck out of his fellow students and tries his best to lift up those around him. He's the first to show up, he's the first to volunteer, and he's happy to bring others on board. It's what Tiger Pride is all about. Crunch those numbers buddy! We miss you. 

Senior Profile: Hayley Nitz

Hayley comes from Olathe, Kansas. She is majoring in Biology, Political Science, and Spanish. She will be attending graduate school at Georgetown University, in the Security Studies Program (SSP) with future aspirations to become a U.S. diplomat. 

She has been influenced by her father in all her big dreams; "my dad has always supported everything I do. He pushes me to make my dreams a reality but also helps me in the process to do so."  

There isn't a whole lot you can say Hayley didn't do during her time her at FHSU; studying abroad and beyond the coasts. She made the most of every opportunity, created new opportunities, and explored so much of the world in just a few years. May you have many more bold adventures and don't forget to land every once in a while! 

Senior Profile: Zachary Meyer

 

Zach Meyer is from Andale, Kansas and is graduating with a degree in Chemistry. He is planning to attend the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort Smith, AR. 

He finds support from his family, who is always there for him. Zach is looking forward to being able to help people in his future career. 

Zach is exceptionally thoughtful, open, and considerate of others. There is no doubt he will be amazing in his field where these qualities are so valuable. Congratulations, Zach! You have so much ahead of you!