Student Ambassadors
Meet the Bobcat Family
At Montana State University, we have countless opportunities for students to broaden their experiences and get involved on campus. Our office offers several unique opportunities to develop as individuals. Learn more about them and meet our students below!
Admissions Student Ambassadors
Our Admissions Student Ambassadors meet with prospective students and their families as part of their campus visit experience. They cover a broad range of topics, including student life, academic options, the application process, scholarships, and more. Our Student Ambassadors are trained by our Admissions Counselors, and many are active in leadership positions across campus.
Have questions about our Admissions Student Ambassadors? Email us!
Meet Our Admissions Student Ambassadors
Cody Johannes | Worden, MT
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Animal Science: Livestock Management
Year in School: Senior
Involvement:
Student Ambassador, Ag Ambassador, ASMSU, FFA, 4-H, Young Farmers and Ranchers, Steer of the Year Program Co-Manager, AdvoCat Tour Guide, College of Ag Week Planning Committee, College of Ag Student Retention and Integration Committee Member, Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Member, Collegiate Stockgrowers President, Livestock Evaluation Team
Favorite class:
As I roll into my 4th year here on campus it's difficult to remember every class,
option, and course that was offered or that I attended. My overwhelming opinion is
that
professors who were in the industry you love before they taught It are the ones who
understand the concepts of college kids and don't worry about the details of every
subject.
This is true for courses like Human Demography, Animal Nutrition, Philosophy, and
upperdivision credits. My major benefits simply play to the reason I love and want
to be involved
in agriculture for the rest of my life, those being the valued goals of agriculture
production,
the independent compromise each research project and the idea has, and the network
contacts and communication that is unparallel to cattle production nationwide.
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
As a town in the beautiful state of Montana, Bozeman is one of the most vibrant, prolific,
and booming communities. The best part about the location of Montana State is that
the
city it sits in understands that they are also supported by the students living in
it and that
makes it the perfect college town. Many outdoor adventures are available such as floating,
fly or rod fishing, hiking, biking, working out, and yes of course skiing. Sitting
in the middle
of two A-rated ski mountains it is the perfect chance to attend a week of class and
enjoy a
weekend of powder. I personally love the restaurant scene, nightlife, and overall
amenities
that are prioritized for college students and the fast-growing city of any state.
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
The portion of college no one tells you about that is unique and exciting no matter
your
location the history each university holds and the role and independence each individual
student gets to play in that. I personally thrive on MSU Debut events, and the activities
put
on in the name of student engagement. Whether it be the M photo for every single class
at
MSU, the Catapalooza Involvement fair, or the Infamous Undie Run they all are designed
to
include everyone and ensure peak enjoyment in your first few weeks of the Semester.
However, an above all tradition for me and most freshmen has got to be Bobcat Football
and specifically The Cat/Griz, Brawl of the Wild.
What was your first impression of MSU?
My personal impression of MSU as an instate student is a bit skewed. I grew up involved
in
FFA and other extracurricular activities that utilized MSU for many events and that's
where
my love started, long before I ever had a choice to attend the university I was indoctrinated
into its culture, opportunities, and community. My impression was and continues to
be that
MSU is a student-based university with its heart focused on supporting the sons and
daughters of America and the goal of ensuring your experience is worth as much as
your
paper.
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I chose to attend Montana State University because of my background and upbringing
in
the industry of Agriculture and as a career, I know it would be cattle and agriculture
based.
MSU being the land grant institution and THE Ag College of Montana there was no other
choice for me or my family. My decision to attend here has been met with tremendous
support in the area of research, faculty, connection, and networking potential. Attending
MSU was also supported by the minimal 2-hour travel time back home to the family ranch,
and the community of value-based friends I've gained while in attendance.
Words of wisdom:
Below listed are some of the best bits of advice and wisdom that I've listened to
followed
and aspired to represent. It is essential to realize that no amount of money ever
bought a
second of time and that maximizing opportunities, connections, and experiences in
a
rushed 4 years is crucial. It is one of the most peace-evoking mentalities to embrace
that
academics don't define you and that being so stressed about making a living that you
forget
to make a life is futile, it is possible to be calm and dedicated. College is a growth
period, a
developmental time for emotions, understanding, and relations and knowing that
happiness isn't the absence of problems but the ability to deal with them is a maturing
process. Understand that the chance to find a career that never feels like work is
only
available in undergrad and that the value of moments is often realized when they are
a
memory. Some of those moments will take work and some of them will pass you by but
knowing the grass is green where it's watered and not always on the other side will
provide
you with achievements and accomplishments untold. Pay attention to who you are with
when you feel your best, and understand that advice from someone who isn't in a position
you aspire for isn't advice at all. The final understanding I wish I knew attending
college is
that there is no excuse for a genuine lack of preparation and that if one is asking
to grow as
a person you can't be frustrated when life challenges you. My overall advice as an
upcoming veteran in the field is that living today like you're dying tomorrow and
learning
today as you'll live forever is the best way to maximize the time that flies.
Ellen McLean | Helena, MT
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Kinesiology: Exercise Science
Year in School: Junior
Involvement:
Student Ambassador, Exercise Science Club
Favorite thing about your major:
My favorite thing about Kinesiology is learning about all of the different career paths I could take once I graduate!
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
My favorite activity in Bozeman is to get dinner/ice cream in downtown Bozeman, and pop into the little shops on Main Street.
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
My favorite campus activity would be the Gold Rush Football game! It is our first football game of the year and the whole stadium is packed in gold. It is always a good time!
What was your first impression of MSU?
My first impression of MSU was how much I loved the campus! There is always something exciting happening on campus which gives MSU a very vibrant feel.
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I decided to go to MSU because I felt supported here! Whether I was in the classroom, meeting new friends, or trying new activities everyone welcomed me with open arms!
Words of wisdom:
My best advice for new students is to get involved in different activities! It's a really great way to make new friends!
Hunter Solheim | Billings, MT
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Kinesiology: Exercise Science
Year in School: Sophomore
Involvement:
Student Ambassador, MSU Bookstore Employee
Favorite thing about your major:
My favorite thing about my major is learning about the human body and how to help others reach the goals they would like to achieve.
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
My favorite activities around Bozeman are mountain biking, hiking, and fly fishing.
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
My favorite campus activity is going to Bobcat football games and the rodeo with friends.
What was your first impression of MSU?
My first impression of MSU is that as a student you aren't lost and it is easy to become involved in different things around campus.
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I chose to attend MSU because of where it is located as well as how much research you can/will be involved with.
Words of wisdom:
Make sure you get out and do things! It's the best way to make friends, meet new people, and experience new things.
Katie Delker | Soldotna, AK
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Microbiology (Pre-Vet)
Year in School: Senior
Involvement:
Honors College, ASMSU Senator, Co-President of Nordic Ski Club,
Secretary of Country Dance Club, Student Ambassador, AdvoCat, Loved. Called. Moved.
Ministry, Health Equity Circle, Health Advocacy Task Force, Students Against Sexual
Assault, Pre-Vet Club
Favorite class:
My favorite class at MSU thus far has been Parasitology! As a Pre-Vet major, I loved learning about the creepy-crawlies that I may encounter as a veterinarian. Dr. Halonen was also a wonderful teacher and brought us parasite-shaped cookies on our last day.
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
Some of my favorite memories in Montana have been at the top of mountains with friends! Hiking and backpacking are definitely my favorite activities in Bozeman during the summer, and Nordic skiing during the winter!
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
I absolutely love the week leading up to the Brawl of the Wild rivalry game with the University of Montana. We have a ton of fun traditions leading up to the Saturday of the game, my favorite being the Can the Griz food drive where Bozeman and Missoula compete to raise the most food and money for their local food pantries.
What was your first impression of MSU?
The entire community is stoked to be known as Bobcat country, and it shows! The first thing I noticed was that every business proudly posts a Bobcat logo on their window and offers student discounts (through the student survival kit coupon)!
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I chose to attend MSU because of the beautiful mountain ranges, the amazing campus atmosphere, and the Honors College. Right when I stepped on campus, I knew this was a place that I would not only thrive academically, but would be genuinely at home!
Words of wisdom:
Don’t be afraid to explore your educational options! I came to MSU undeclared, and because I was able to dip my toes into a variety of courses, I feel extremely secure in my declared major! Best part is...I'm going to graduate in four years! My time in the undeclared option at MSU, University Studies, was pivital in my ability to take on my education with the confidence I will find my path! I'm so grateful for my time as a Bobcat.
Sarah Hagengruber | Helena, MT
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Microbiology (Pre-Med)
Year in School: Senior
Involvement:
Honors College Student Fellow, Cadaver Lab Student Assistant, Backcountry Squatters, Cats for Canines President, AdvoCat Tour Guide, Student Ambassador Coordinator, Students Against Sexual Assault, Sleep research labs, Science Education research lab, ASMSU secretary.
Favorite thing about your major:
I love pharmacology and immunology that I took for my major.
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
I love camping in Hyalite and hiking up in the Bridgers.
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
Lighting of Montana Hall! Such a fun activity before we all have final exams and leave
for Winter Break.
What was your first impression of MSU?
I felt like campus was very lively and I love how active the other students are! I was also very impressed with the research at MSU.
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I love the outdoors and I did not want to leave the mountains. Also, as an in-state student, there were lots of opportunities for scholarships.
Words of wisdom:
Get involved and try new things! You never know who you'll meet and what can come out of it.
Grace Gibson | Haxtun, CO
Admissions Student Ambassador
Major: Agricultural Education
Minor: Technology Education
Year in School: Sophomore
Involvement:
Admissions Ambassador, Ag Ed Club, AdvoCat Tour Guide, Admissions Specialist, Stockgrowers, Collegiate 4-H.
Favorite thing about your major:
My favorite thing about my major is working with like-minded individuals and the research we get to do around the community.
Favorite activity to do in Bozeman:
I enjoy hiking the trails around Bozeman!
Favorite campus activity or tradition:
GOLD RUSH! Or homecoming football games.
What was your first impression of MSU?
I really loved that when I toured, everyone was super nice and helpful.
Why I decided to attend MSU:
I chose MSU because I knew there were a lot of opportunities I could do once I got here and because I loved the atmosphere.
Words of wisdom:
Keep your mind open and don't be afraid to branch out and try new things/places.
AdvoCat Tour Guides
The campus tour program at Montana State University serves thousands of visitors each year. Under the supervision of the program coordinators, Anders Groseth, our Campus Visit Coordinators, and two student coordinators, MSU AdvoCats promote and personalize the University to prospective students, their families and other guests to campus. Through guided walking tours of campus, MSU AdvoCats educate visitors about academics and campus life, as well as the history, traditions and achievements of the University. The position of an MSU AdvoCat is a volunteer student leadership position. Guided tours last approximately one hour and are offered Monday – Friday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. year-round.
Have questions about AdvoCats? Email us!
Orientation Leaders
We are very proud that the success of our Orientation program is due in large part to the quality, ability, and dedication of Student Orientation Leaders. Trained in such areas as communication skills, leadership and presentation of factual information, Orientation Leaders work closely with new freshmen, transfers, and parents. They are knowledgeable about campus activities, campus life and various services offered by the University, and develop close working relationships with MSU administrators and faculty while assisting with academic advising and the registration process.
Have questions about being an Orientation Leader? Email us!
Shannon Bangen
Associate Director of New Student Programs
shannon.bangen@montana.edu
Want more information about MSU? We're here to help.
If you have questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! You can email our
staff at admissions@montana.edu, or call us Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm MT at 1-888-MSU-CATS.