Minot State University
10/17/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/17/2024 15:31
Onward: An interview with Kyle Sandy
By Michael Linnell
University Communications Director
MINOT, N.D. - Kyle Sandy is a third-generation Beaver.
Sandy's grandmother, Deanna (Irion) Chrest '72; both parents, Larry '86 and Kim (Chrest) '89 Sandy; and siblings, Josh Sandy '15, Katelyn (Sandy) Daniels '18, and Jadyn Sandy - who is currently a student - all went to Minot State University. And, that's just his immediate family.
While there wasn't a lot of pressure for Kyle to travel the short distance from Velva to MSU, the physical education major wasn't about to break the Sandy connection - to the delight of his mother!
He has made the most of his time at MSU. Sandy is also pursuing a minor in business administration and a concentration in leadership and placed in the top 10 nationally in two events at the 2024 Collegiate FBLA National Convention.
With all he has going on, University Communications had a hard time tracking him down for the next installment of Onward, but we finally caught up with him to give you a little insight into this Beaver Legacy's life.
The Sandy family is no stranger to Minot State, with both parents, multiple siblings, probably uncles and cousins all attending here, how much pressure was there to come to MSU?
KS: There honestly wasn't much pressure from my family about attending Minot State, but I do know that my mom was definitely happy that I chose MSU due to her "baby" staying relatively close to home. It would be a shame to be the one to end the tradition of Sandy kids attending Minot State University!
All kidding aside, tell us about your experience in deciding to attend Minot State and what were some of the main factors in making that decision?
KS: I initially didn't plan to choose Minot State University because I wanted to be somewhere that felt different from home. I've been around MSU for as long as I can remember with my older siblings all attending here. I wanted to venture out to new places on my own. It wasn't until I decided the career path I wanted to pursue - physical education, that I really took a look into Minot State.
I visited campus for one of the career days and met some faculty members of the education department who really blew me away. I learned how great the education department at Minot State is and stand by that to this day. That is when I say that I decided to attend Minot State, but I think I secretly knew I was going to be a beaver the entire time!
Last question about family! Did you feel pressure to excel based on your family's tradition here and how much have you used family as a support mechanism?
KS: I often feel pressure to succeed due to my family's tradition here. During my freshman year, I lost count of how many times I heard, "Oh, you're Josh's brother!" - it was basically inevitable! It's honestly been a mixed experience. It was particularly helpful during my freshman year when I needed to meet new people and had those connections from my family's roots at Minot State.
However, I don't want to be seen just as one of the Sandy kids or siblings. I want to make my own mark here and have been attempting to do so by being involved all over campus. My family has been incredibly supportive of my involvement on campus, always encouraging me whenever I take on new responsibilities. It's always reassuring to know you have support behind you whenever you need it.
How has your experience at MSU gone so far? How much was it different than what you thought it might be?
KS: My time at MSU has been great so far! I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started my freshman year. It took some time to settle in, but now I can genuinely say I'm having some of the best experiences yet! Whether it's my classes, club activities, or the friendships I'm forming, I never anticipated thriving like this.
You have been involved in multiple departments and events on campus, tell us about your experience outside of the classroom?
KS: I've participated in numerous departments and events on campus, both by choice and sometimes by being "voluntold." My first involvement was with the Wellness Center, where I worked at the front desk and intramurals. I'm grateful for this experience, as it allows me to meet many people and be part of such a positive environment. Additionally, I've contributed to the Advancement Office and Athletics by helping with the Beaver Boosters. I was also a Larson Leader Scholarship recipient in my freshman year, which helped me get involved with the Looyenga Leadership Center, Student Orientation, and the newly formed Leadership Club. The experience and leadership skills I've gained from these opportunities are incredible. Finally, I joined Minot State's Collegiate FBLA club last year, where I was able to attend the North Dakota and National Leadership Conferences. Being a part of this club has proven to be a great opportunity for myself to practice and engage in networking opportunities with other people in the business world.
How have your studies gone, and what are your future goals beyond graduation?
KS: My classes have been awesome so far, largely thanks to my professors. With smaller class sizes, they've built strong connections with students, making each class much more engaging. After graduation, my main goal is to secure a physical education position at a school.
What are some of the reasons you chose your major?
KS: A key reason I chose to pursue education is my upbringing. Both my parents were teachers at Velva High School, so I grew up in that environment and truly enjoyed it. Throughout my school years, I had some amazing teachers who demonstrated the profound impact a teacher can have on a student, and I've developed a passion for that influence. When it came to selecting my field, I realized that my love for sports and being active naturally led me to physical education.
I also have a strong interest in business, thanks to my experiences with FBLA, so I decided to add a minor in business administration to expand my future opportunities in schools. Additionally, I'm adding a concentration in leadership studies, which I believe will be essential in my future career.
You've been involved in the Looyenga Leadership Center, a relatively new program, how has that experience shaped your education?
KS: The Looyenga Leadership Center has been an incredible opportunity for me at Minot State. I wouldn't even be involved if it weren't for the director, Jim Sturm; his work for the program is remarkable and deserves recognition. I never anticipated that this leadership center would have such a profound impact on my college experience, but it has significantly boosted my confidence in my choice to attend Minot State. From the skills I've developed to the friendships I've formed, I can honestly say that the Looyenga Leadership Center has greatly enhanced my education. I strongly encourage all students to take advantage of this opportunity here at Minot State.
Do you have a highlight or two from your time at Minot State?
KS: I honestly don't know if there is one specific time that I can highlight because I've had so many fun experiences with my time so far at Minot State. I really enjoyed the first welcome week with new student orientation, the rec fest put on by the Wellness Center, and the fun MSU Life activities. I also had a really fun dance class with Terry (Ferebee) Eckmann '81/82 that has definitely been a highlight of my time here.
What do you like to do outside of the classroom, hobbies or other areas of interest?
KS: Something that I've gotten into and really enjoyed since I've been in college is officiating. I officiate high school-level football and basketball for Minot area schools. It started out as something to get a little extra money but has turned into a passion of mine that I could see myself doing for quite a while. At first, I asked myself why I should even do it because you're getting yelled at most of the time, but now I strangely enjoy getting fans that are screaming at me. It is a way for me to stay connected to the sports that I once played and really enjoy. You also get to work with great people who have the same passion as you and create some fun memories in the process.
About Minot State University
Minot State University is a public university dedicated to excellence in education, scholarship, and community engagement achieved through rigorous academic experiences, active learning environments, commitment to public service, and a vibrant campus life.
Published: 10/17/24