Growing up on a farm and ranch near Kathryn, N.D., Amber Knutson learned the value of hard work, resilience and community from an early age. Her K–12 years in Valley City were filled with meaningful experiences and strong connections, which made the decision to attend VCSU feel like a natural next step.

Tell us a bit about how you ended up at VCSU.
I am originally from Kathryn, North Dakota, where I was raised on my family’s farm and ranch. I attended K–12 school in Valley City and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it. When the time came to consider college and my future, I knew I wanted to stay close to home and find a smaller, tight-knit campus community. VCSU instantly felt like home. The professors and peers genuinely care about you and know you by name. I loved walking to class each day and being greeted by familiar faces—it truly made the experience special.

How did you decide on your major? Any key influences in your life or experiences that led you to choose your path.
I discovered my passion for marketing during my senior year of high school, which led me to pursue a degree in Business Administration with a focus in Agricultural Business and a minor in Marketing. This combination has allowed me to build a solid foundation in business while also tailoring my education to align with my personal interests and career goals.

Have you had any internships while in college?
After my sophomore year, I transitioned to online learning and moved to Fargo. That spring, I began an internship at Steffes Auctioneering. For the first six months, I worked in brand marketing, social media, communication strategy, and marketing analytics. Following that period, I accepted a full-time role in event marketing, where I managed trade show planning, merchandise ordering, and sponsorship coordination.

Any advice for those considering attending VCSU as an in-person or online student?
My advice to students—whether online or in-person—is to take risks. I firmly believe, “If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.” Life can be uncertain, and it’s not always clear which path to take. The best way forward is to explore, gain experience, and build connections. College is about more than academics—it’s also about growth, relationships, and preparing for success. At VCSU, the support from professors and staff truly sets students up for a bright future.

Tell us about your new job and what it’s like to manage that while taking classes.
After gaining valuable experience in marketing, I wanted to explore another area within business administration before graduating. In May, I accepted a position at an Edward Jones Wealth Management firm in Fargo. Although I never expected to enjoy the world of finance, I took a leap of faith—and I’m so glad I did. My role involves preparing for client appointments and organizing key financial data and goals. I enjoy guiding clients through important milestones, from purchasing a first home to planning for retirement.

What are your dreams and ambitions beyond college?
Looking ahead, I plan to stay in Fargo and continue working at Edward Jones. My long-term goal is to obtain my Series 7 license and grow within the firm. Ultimately, my dream is to have a career I’m passionate about—one where I look forward to helping others every day.

Have you faced any challenges during your college experience? If so, how did you overcome those challenges?
Balancing full-time work with online coursework can be challenging. There are days where I work eight hours and come home to lectures, assignments, and exams. Time management has become one of the most critical skills I’ve learned. Some nights I dedicate several hours to studying so I can relax the following evening. It’s all about balance and discipline.

Have you had any big (or small) wins during your time at VCSU?
The most difficult decision I faced in college was choosing to move and switch to online learning. I loved my hometown, being involved in the community, and attending classes on campus. I worried about missing the traditional college experience—no more campus events or face-to-face interactions with professors and classmates. Despite those concerns, I knew that advancing my career, gaining real-world experience, and building professional connections would be worth it.

My greatest takeaway from VCSU is the incredible relationships and memories I made. Although I only spent two years on campus, I formed friendships and connections that will last a lifetime. I’m forever grateful to the people at VCSU who helped shape who I am today and supported me on the path toward becoming the best version of myself.

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