OLPD Student Feature

Why did you decide to pursue the Business Marketing Education major?

I decided to pursue the BME because I’ve always been more interested in the people side of things rather than just numbers or data. I care about how organizations impact individuals and communities, and I wanted to study something that reflects that. OLPD stood out to me because it focuses on leadership, equity, and how we can create better environments for people to grow and succeed. It’s helped me understand how systems work, but more importantly, how to make them more inclusive and effective for everyone. This major aligns with my values and my interest in making a difference through public service, community work, or even international organizations like the United Nations.

What has been your favorite part of your experience in your major?

My favorite part of being in the OLPD major is how practical and people-focused it is. In many of my classes, we don’t just study concepts we apply them to real-life situations. Whether it’s analyzing leadership styles, tackling issues around equity, or improving organizational culture, the coursework challenges us to think about how these topics play out in everyday work environments. A highlight for me was studying abroad in Florence, Italy, where I interned with a company focused on DEI and sustainability. That experience allowed me to see how the values we study in OLPD like inclusion, collaboration, and ethical leadership translate across cultures. It was powerful to take what I learned in class and apply it in a global, professional setting. Overall, the major has helped me grow in ways that feel both personal and relevant to the kind of work I want to do in the future.

What is one aspect of your major that has surprised you?

One aspect of my major that has really surprised me is how much personal growth has come alongside the academic learning. When I first chose OLPD, I expected to learn about leadership styles, organizational structures, and how systems operate. And while I’ve definitely gained that knowledge, what I didn’t expect was how much the major would push me to think about my own identity, values, and the kind of impact I want to make in the world.

The classes often encourage deep reflection and challenge us to think critically about real issues—especially around equity, inclusion, and power. I’ve found myself becoming a better communicator and listener because we’re constantly working with others, hearing different perspectives, and applying what we learn to real-world situations. That level of engagement has helped me become more confident in sharing my voice and also more thoughtful in how I approach conversations, especially around difficult topics.

What also surprised me is how connected the major feels to life outside the classroom. Whether I was interning abroad in Italy or working in public service roles here in Minnesota, I kept finding moments where I could draw on things I had learned in OLPD. It’s made me realize that the lessons from this major aren’t just about managing organizations—they’re about understanding people and systems in a way that helps you lead with empathy and purpose.

What do you wish you would have known about careers in your major before now?

I wish I had known earlier just how versatile the OLPD major is when it comes to careers. At first, I thought it mainly led to roles in education or training, but I’ve since learned that the skills we build—like leadership, communication, and equity work—are valuable across so many fields, from government and nonprofits to corporate and international organizations. I also didn’t realize how important it is to start exploring those paths early through internships, networking, and hands-on experience. My study abroad internship in Florence really opened my eyes to how the major applies globally and how much it aligns with my passion for people-centered work. If I had known all this sooner, I would’ve started shaping my path earlier, but I’m grateful for the foundation and flexibility this major offers.