Onward Q&A: An interview with Kylee Cooper

MINOT, N.D. – Originally from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Kylee Cooper’s academic path has taken her from the University of Saskatchewan to Minot State.

While she enjoyed her studies at the University of Saskatchewan, Cooper remembers the challenge of huge classes. Minot State was not originally in her plan, but her dad, Peter Funk ’01, an MSU alumnus, suggested the University might be a good fit.

After transferring, she started in the radiologic technology program but switched to Minot State’s new innovation engineering program. It became a full-circle moment for Cooper’s academic journey as she started in engineering during her time at the University of Saskatchewan.

It has only been a few months since she began the new program, but she has settled in and is enjoying her newfound, albeit old, major. University Communications caught up with Cooper to visit about her academic career, transferring to MSU, and her time in the new program in the latest installment of the Onward Q&A Series.

What is your major at Minot State and what led you to choose it?
KC: I am currently enrolled in the innovation engineering program here. Engineering is something I have always had an interest in, especially CAD design. Previously, I was enrolled in the radiologic technology program, which I also enjoyed, but I didn't have a passion for it, as I do with engineering.

Tell us about your academic story. What brought you to Minot State University from the University of Saskatchewan, and what was the transfer process like?
KC: I originally was in the engineering program at the University of Saskatchewan, and I did enjoy what I was learning. However, the class sizes were about 10 times the size of the ones they offer here, so it made learning more challenging for me. My dad is actually an alumnus of Minot State, so he is the one who suggested I come here. The transfer process was actually pretty easy; however, I am still in the process of getting transfer credits processed.

You shared that you are a part of the innovations engineering program; what are some things you would like to share about that program? What led you to that program?
KC: So far, the program has been going pretty well. I have taken a lot of the first-year classes previously, so this year has been a lot of review for me. They're doing a very good job with the program, considering it is brand new. I ended up choosing this program because my (Minot State) physics professor, Nigel George, recommended I give it a shot.

What are some aspects of being an international student you would like to share with people?
KC: Being an international student definitely gives us a disadvantage. However, this university has made being an international student feel normal. They're very accommodating and helpful. Plus, the price of attending Minot State University is very reasonable, and is actually less than what I paid to attend the University of Saskatchewan.

What have you learned from working in the MSU Wellness Center and taking part in its resources?
KC: JOIN INTRAMURALS. I can't stress that enough, especially being a multi-sport athlete in high school and now not being involved in a sport; I highly recommend getting your friends together, make a team, and play your sport for fun. Obviously, I recommend everyone come to the gym and just hit a lift, but we also have the rock wall and gymnasium where you could come and play volleyball, pickleball, pickup basketball, and plenty of other court sports. If you're ever too nervous to come, you can always ask us at the front desk any questions, and we would be happy to help you.

In addition to being a part of MSU Life and intramural sports, are there any other organizations or clubs you are participating in?
KC: I am actually not a part of any other clubs; however, I was the team manager for Minot State women's basketball and softball. That was such a great experience that got me so many friends and helped me network within the University.

Is there anything you enjoy doing when not attending classes on or off campus?
KC: I love to hang out with my friends, and recently we made a Minecraft Realm for our two-week phase.

Are there any tricks or tips about being a college student or the transferring process you would like for incoming and prospective students to know?
KC: I promise it's not as scary as you think. I came here knowing no one, and now I feel like more than half of the campus is my friends. MSU Life was a huge part of that, almost feeling like my home away from home. Don't forget to be yourself, have fun, and get involved because truly, university is so much fun.

What are your plans for your future outside of being a student at Minot State?
KC: Honestly, I would love to travel a lot when I'm done with school, specifically in Europe. Other than that, I don't have anything specific. I'm mostly just going wherever the wind takes me.

How have your past or current life experiences influenced your academic or non-academic life?
KC: I think no matter what you go through, if you hold your head high, be yourself, have fun, and wake up being grateful for every day you get, you will be just fine. Everything always works out in the end, so stressing out over things you cannot control will consume you and waste your time. Be present and remember the pain you've been feeling can't compare to the joy that is coming.