Taylor Otis ’25 | New Ulm, Minnesota
Major: Business Marketing 

Please tell us about yourself.

I recently graduated from 欧美视频 with a major in business and a concentration in marketing. I grew up in New Ulm, Minnesota, and throughout my time at Concordia, I’ve developed a passion for marketing and a strong foundation in business.

How did you first hear about Concordia? Why did you choose to transfer here?

I heard about 欧美视频 from my sisters, who both attended Concordia. But I had never thought about it. I attended NDSU and struggled with making friends and fitting in. I wanted to fit in so badly. That spring, when speaking with one of my sisters, she offered to take a tour of Concordia with me. It never even crossed my mind that 欧美视频 and NDSU were in the same area. I attended a small Catholic school my entire life and, when walking on campus, I felt a sense of community. I liked how small the classes were and that you can have a relationship with your professor, rather than just being another number. I felt a sense of peace after my tour, knowing that I could fit in here.

What was your transfer process with Concordia like? 

The transfer process with Concordia was very straightforward. I applied in the spring and was accepted by the summer. From there, I was connected with an advisor who guided me through each of the next steps, making the transition really seamless. 

Was there a certain person or group of people who helped you adjust after transferring? 

My transfer Orientation Club definitely played a big role in helping me adjust. Connecting with others who were in a similar situation made it easy to relate and feel supported. Getting involved in Orientation Club activities was not only fun but also helped me make lasting memories. I’m still close with many of the people I transferred in with, and I truly believe I’ve made lifelong friendships.

What campus activities were you involved in? How did they impact your experience?

I was a Concordia for two years, which was a big accomplishment come true for me. Growing up, my hometown school didn’t offer cheerleading, so when I found out I could try out at Concordia, I was thrilled. Being part of the cheer team allowed me to connect with others who shared my interests and step out of my comfort zone. I learned so much through that experience.

I was also part of the leadership committee for the  on campus. It’s been a really fun and unique way to connect with friends, whether it’s enjoying the sauna or trying out ice baths together. It’s helped build a sense of community while promoting wellness in a relaxed and supportive environment.

What did you enjoy most about being a swim instructor at the Concordia pool?

What I enjoyed most about being a swim instructor at the Concordia pool is working with the kids. Seeing their progress and confidence grow in the water is incredibly rewarding. Every milestone they reached felt like a win for both of us.

What was the biggest lifestyle change after transferring?

The biggest lifestyle change after transferring was my mindset. Instead of isolating myself and feeling unhappy with college life, I started putting myself out there. I became more outgoing, embraced new experiences, and really started to enjoy each day.

How did you manage school and life changes?

Working out is a big part of how I take care of myself. It gives me something consistent to rely on when school or life gets hectic. I also used a planner to stay organized, keeping track of upcoming assignments and tests. It helps me stay focused, prepared, and less overwhelmed

Before coming to Concordia, I honestly thought I just wasn’t cut out for college.

What’s one thing you never imagined you would do before coming to Concordia? 

Becoming a good student! Before coming to Concordia, I honestly thought I just wasn’t cut out for college. At NDSU, I struggled and didn’t enjoy school, but Concordia completely changed my mindset. I actually enjoyed learning and growing, and I’ve gained so much confidence in my abilities.

What are your favorite things to do in the Fargo-Moorhead area?

My favorite things to do in the Fargo-Moorhead area are eating good food, shopping, and going .

How has college changed you as a person? 

College has made me more outgoing and confident. I’ve built lifelong friendships and connections, and I’ve become the person I always wanted to be. I’m more organized, and I was able to stay on top of my assignments and maintain good grades. I also developed a love for school and found myself becoming more productive in everything I did.

What support systems helped you feel at home at Concordia?

I’ve found great support from my professors and advisors, who have always been there to offer guidance and advice. My friendships have also played a huge role in helping me feel at home, providing me with a sense of belonging and connection throughout my time at Concordia.

How did you choose your area of study?

When I came to Concordia, I was undeclared and unsure of what I wanted to do. My parents both work in business, and I’ve always admired their careers, so I knew I wanted to be involved in business in some way. I eventually chose marketing because it offers such a wide range of opportunities. Looking back, I think marketing was always in the back of my mind. It just took some time and exploration to realize it was the right path for me.

Did you have a favorite marketing course? If so, why was it your favorite?

I truly enjoyed all of my marketing courses at Concordia, but my favorite by far was Product and Brand Management (BUSN 354) with Dr. Streed. The class was incredibly rewarding because it was taught in a small, intimate setting where the learning experience felt personalized. Dr. Streed’s teaching style was engaging and approachable, and she made the complex concepts of branding and product management come to life through real-world examples. Beyond just the academic knowledge, I also gained a deeper understanding of myself. The course helped me realize my passion for this area of marketing, and it inspires me to pursue it further in my career. The hands-on approach, coupled with the close mentorship from Dr. Streed, made it an unforgettable experience that truly shaped my perspective on marketing.

What did you like most about taking classes in the Offutt School of Business?

What I liked the most about taking classes in the Offutt School of Business is how personal and supportive the professors are. They genuinely care about your success and go out of their way to help you reach your goals, whether that’s through extra guidance, feedback, or simply being there to answer questions. The classes are also very hands-on, which allows you to apply what you’re learning in real-world situations. This practical approach not only makes the material more engaging but also ensures that you gain valuable knowledge and skills that will benefit you in your future career.

How did Concordia prepare you for your career after college?

Concordia has prepared me for my career by giving me both the knowledge and the confidence I need to succeed. Through hands-on classes, supportive professors, and real-world projects, I’ve developed practical skills that I can apply directly in the workplace. Beyond academics, Concordia has helped me grow as a leader, communicator, and problem-solver — qualities that I know will be essential as I start my career.

What do you value most about being a Cobber?

What I value most about being a Cobber are the incredible relationships I’ve built and the education and opportunities I’ve received. The connections I’ve made with friends, professors, and mentors have truly shaped my experience and will stay with me long after graduation. Being part of the Cobber community is something I will always be proud of and grateful for.

What was your experience like being an Orientation Leader for other transfer students?

Being an Orientation Leader for transfer students was an incredibly rewarding experience. It allowed me to reflect on my own journey and connect with others who were going through similar challenges. I had the opportunity to speak to them as part of a panel, where I shared my own concerns when I first transferred — how I felt uncertain, nervous, and even a bit depressed after leaving my old college. Coming to a new place was both exciting and daunting. Seeing those same feelings on the faces of the students I was speaking to was so encouraging, and it reminded me how far I’ve come since then. It felt great to be able to reassure them and offer support, knowing that they could relate to my experience. It was a full-circle moment, and I felt grateful to be in a position where I could help others through a transition that I had once struggled with.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering transferring to Concordia?

Do it. It was truly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made! If you’re not passionate about the life you’re living right now, know that something better is out there. Transferring to Concordia gave me a fresh start, a supportive community, and the chance to grow into the person I always hoped I could be.

What is one thing you’re excited about for life after college?

One thing I’m really excited about for life after college is having the opportunity to start building my career and applying everything I’ve learned. I’m looking forward to gaining real-world experience, growing both professionally and personally, and seeing where this next chapter takes me. It’s exciting to think about the new challenges, new people, and new opportunities that are ahead.

What have you been up to since graduation?

I started working as an office administrator for Dwyer Law Office PLLC. The craziest part? My boss’s wife was actually my French professor at Concordia: Madame Dwyer! It’s such a full-circle moment, and I’m excited to take this next step.

Is there anything else you would like to share about your Cobber experience?

My Cobber experience has been more than just academics. It’s been about growth, exploration, and discovering who I am. From the incredible professors who’ve mentored me to the lifelong friendships I’ve formed, every part of my journey here has helped shape the person I am today. Concordia has provided me with a sense of community, purpose, and opportunity, and I’m truly grateful for everything it’s given me. 

Learn about transferring to Concordia

^{Published July 2025}