Onward: An Interview with Grace Candrian
MINOT, N.D. – Being surrounded by friends and family played a major role in Grace Candrian's ’24 decision to attend Minot State.
When looking at colleges near graduation, Candrian had a semi-solid idea of what she wanted to attend university for. Finding a place close to friends and family while being educated under a strong program and knowing there was a kind community to fall into.
The first-year graduate student swiftly embraced the challenges and opportunities of this new academic chapter. Transitioning from undergraduate studies to graduate-level work has been an exciting journey for her. The graduate community here is both supportive and intellectually stimulating, allowing Candrian to share her academic passion and ambition. Alongside her studies, she has built strong friendships with fellow graduate students and shared experiences that make her college life even more rewarding.
Despite the demanding nature of graduate-level coursework and research, Candrian has managed to find a balance between her academic responsibilities, part-time job, and social life. Whether attending social mixers, participating in academic discussions, or simply spending time with her peers, she is making the most of every moment. Her ability to balance the demands of school with a rich social life demonstrates her dedication and adaptability, highlighting her as not only a great student but also someone who fully embraces the graduate experience.
Despite her demanding course schedule, social life, and responsibilities, University Communications caught up with Candrian in the newest installment of Onward to gain insight into her life on and off campus.
Tell us about the reasons you decided to attend Minot State; did you find new reasons for attending?
GC: I chose Minot State because of the strong and well-rounded communication sciences and disorders department Minot State has to offer. In high school, I was informed of the CSD program at Minot State and how well the students are able to learn, grow, and excel in their academic and clinical skills within the department. I knew I wanted to be a part of this program ever since I heard about it. I also chose Minot State because I was born and raised here in Minot and felt the need to stay home a little longer. I have grown and had many opportunities here at Minot State throughout my academic journey so far.
Has your time at MSU brought you experiences or moments that you never expected?
GC: My time at MSU has allowed me to gain more connections within the community of Minot, as well as has allowed me to form relationships that will last a lifetime. I expected that Minot State would feel like “home,” but I did not expect the many opportunities, connections, and resources that Minot State would bring me throughout my years here.
How did you decide on your major being communication sciences and disorder?
GC: I have family members and friends who are speech-language pathologists and have told me the great things about being one! I have always had the passion to help others, and I knew this would be a perfect career where I get to do that and so much more! All of the different opportunities and experiences this major has brought me have made me not only grow as a student and clinician but also as a person.
What do you look forward to each day at MSU?
GC: I look forward to seeing all of my classmates and members within the communication sciences and disorders department every day and sharing our daily experiences together!
Tell us about your future here at MSU and what may come after.
GC: I will graduate from the speech-language pathology graduate program at MSU in the spring of 2026. From there, I have no concrete plans, but I hope to find a steady job either in Minot or somewhere near and live out my dream of being a speech-language pathologist!
What have been the greatest challenges you’ve overcome since starting college?
GC: A challenge I have had to overcome since starting college would be maintaining a work, school, and life balance. It can be difficult finding a healthy balance between different aspects of life, for example school and social life. However, in my later years here at Minot State, I have learned and grown to be flexible in finding a good balance when managing the different aspects of my life in order to succeed in all areas.
Tell us about your favorite classes you’ve taken: professors, students, or curriculum.
GC: Some of my favorite classes that I have taken have been Early Interdisciplinary Studies, Neurogenics, Social Pragmatics, Techniques in Communication Disorders, and Advanced Communication Disorders.
How has your perspective on life changed since coming to MSU?
GC: I have learned to take in every moment and not take any moment for granted since coming to MSU. Being in my first year of graduate school has made me realize how quickly life goes by and to not let any opportunities go to waste. My perspective on life moving forward is to appreciate everything that comes my way and to always strive to be the best person I can be!
What is your favorite part about being a student at MSU?
GC: My favorite part about being a student at MSU is being able to be involved with the University and their on-campus events and to also be involved in all of the experiences the CSD Department offers.
What do you enjoy doing with your free time: hobbies, activities, family, friends, or any interest?
GC: I love to spend time with my family and friends whenever I can. I also love to play pickleball, find a new show to watch, and spend time at the lake!
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: 03/21/25
