MSU President's Newspaper Column
October 12, 2024
Of the 1,134 students enrolled at Mayville State University during the fall semester of 2024, 68% are from North Dakota. Mayville State graduates stay in North Dakota. Surveys of recent Mayville State graduates consistently show that native North Dakotans choose to stay in the state to work, live, and further their education. A large percentage of the out-of-state students who graduate from Mayville State choose to stay in North Dakota as well. We’re focusing on helping North Dakota solve critical shortages in the workforce.
The other day, when I bumped into a former student who came from Florida to join the Mayville State family a few years ago, he explained that he plans to stay in North Dakota, and specifically, Mayville. He enjoys the kindness of people in a place where he feels safe. That’s a huge testament to the positive impact the university and members of the community make.
At Mayville State, students have many opportunities to get involved with clubs and organizations that provide invaluable leadership experiences, including student government, band, choir, Collegiate DECA, Student Education Association, Science and Math Club, Intercultural Club, athletics, and more. In addition, students have the unique opportunity to be involved with scientific research projects that are providing meaningful experiences for the students and impactful data for society. Engaged hands-on learning is an important quality of the Mayville State experience.
The cost to attend Mayville State University is affordable. Tuition and fees for a North Dakota resident are $7,979 per year. Financial aid is available, along with opportunities to earn scholarships. Keeping student loan debt low for students is a priority at Mayville State. Having the ability to offer scholarships plays a major role in making this possible. Many students work full- and part-time to help pay their tuition and living expenses. Scholarships help to ease the financial burden and allows students more time to concentrate on their studies.
All students find helpful and supportive faculty and staff who are willing and able to help. At Mayville State, “The School of Personal Service” is not only the institutional motto. That concept is brought to life by employees and students alike. People model and learn the values and soft skills that are so important to success as an added component of earning a college education at Mayville State. These standards begin on the campus and go beyond Mayville State as students graduate and become leaders in their careers and communities. Countless Mayville State graduates have made a big difference for others and many have received local, regional, and national recognition for their efforts.
Mayville State seeks to provide for the education and development of the whole student, providing an immersive experience both in and out of the classroom. The importance of civic values such as honoring the flag, opening doors for others, and having respect for the national anthem are impressed upon Mayville State students. The seven pillars of this experience include intellectual development; personal growth; volunteerism; community involvement; character development; social, emotional, and personal development; and leadership development.
Mayville State is a unique and special place where civic values and the seven pillars of the Mayville State Experience form the basis for living and learning. It fills my cup to know that the work that happens at “The School of Personal Service” is a pebble that starts a ripple effect of making the world a better place. I extend a big “thank you” to the faculty and staff of Mayville State who help to perpetuate the civic responsibilities that truly do make a positive difference in our world.