Ellen is all smiles and energy despite being slightly jet-lagged after having returned from a brief study abroad in Europe. The trip was a blast, she explains, and a wonderful opportunity to explore the world outside of Nebraska. This opportunity is one of many that members of the CBA Scholars Academy are offered. As part of the junior cohort, Ellen traveled to Paris and Dijon, France over spring break to have a hands-on approach to studying international business.
But nothing is like being back home. Omaha is where Ellen grew up. Her education started nontraditionally, being homeschooled for her primary learning. She contributes her success as a college student to the holistic approach set by her mother. “It taught me how to be a self-learner,” she says. “If you want to know something, you need to put the effort in and learn it. And that’s what college is all about.”
Additionally, by not having a rigid schedule she developed the important skill of time management. “While homeschooling we had to learn to manage our time. We had to set our own schedules, so I had to have stuff done at a certain time of the day if I wanted to participate in other activities.”
It was during this pivotal time Ellen met Morgan Dickey, a fellow homeschooled student who would eventually influence her decision to come to UNO. When asked why the concentration in Human Resources, Ellen cites Morgan yet again. “She is studying Human Resources and that is career working with people, and I’m a people person, so I’d like to work in that realm.”
The transition into college life in 2020 proved a challenging time. Graduating during a pandemic and not having the typical experiences left some uncertainty on how to take the next steps to higher education. “I was unsure of college in the first place but way more unsure after a pandemic.” Persevering through her first year, Ellen has only gained momentum.
As a junior, Ellen still has another year to look forward to. The CBA Capstone Cup competition holds the most excitement for her. The competition is presentation driven and offers students a chance to speak directly to the semester’s host client and judges. With several speech competitions under her belt, the Capstone course aligns perfectly with Ellen’s skills. Getting there was not without assistance though.
Ellen credits the available scholarships as a valuable source of support during her time at UNO. As a member of the Scholars Academy, she was awarded a minimum annual scholarship of $5,000, over four years. A select few students can qualify for larger scholarships as they progress. Additionally, every applicant is considered for the CBA-wide scholarships. This support is a welcomed financial relief for students and is one Ellen greatly appreciates.
She also expresses great respect for Dean Trawick. Participating in the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, Ellen is exposed to and inspired by the dean’s vision for the students and the college. When asked about having such direct interaction with the dean, Ellen said, “It’s very personal. She’s such a personable lady. She really listens to our opinions, and she wants the best for her students.”
The CBA faculty has had a positive impact on her academic career as well. “I didn’t think I would have a relationship with the professors that I do,” she says with a smile. Taking advantage of after-class discussions and open office hours has led to a higher level of engagement both in and out of the classroom. Ellen is the President of the Human Resources Association at UNO and interacts regularly with Dr. Patti Meglich. She also mentions Dr. Robert Ottemann and her accounting professors’ availability to talk over papers or offer assistance on classwork.
“I like to be hands-on with my learning, so the professors know that I’m engaged, and they know that I’m interested. It’s great to see how passionate all the professors are about helping us succeed.”
Ellen’s skills expand beyond a business mind. She was a violin instructor for 7 years and taught one of her cousins as well as a couple of the students from her home school group how to play. Additionally, she was a speech and debate competitor for 6 years, and she qualified to nationals 4 years in a row. Her last year, she achieved a nationally ranked position. Ellen also has been volunteering at the Hope Center for Kids since 5th grade.
After graduation, Ellen plans to continue working for Medical Solutions where she currently has been interning for the last year. Ideally, she would like to be a professional development trainer, presenting classes and utilizing her creative side to engage the participants. Her internship is a direct connection from her time in the Scholar’s Academy, as local community professionals mentor each student throughout their college career.
Her words of wisdom for the next generation of students; “Get involved. Be positive. These four years are such a unique time in your life; you get opportunities you would have never gotten without being a college student. You’re only one connection away from your entire life changing.”