The University of Minnesota Morris changed Kris (Santjer) Hauge’s life.
Hauge ’00, started her undergraduate journey at a relatively large college and was so unhappy that she considered just dropping out of college altogether. But her older brother, Steve, had attended UMN Morris and encouraged her to check it out.
As it turns out, UMN Morris was where she fit in.
“I feel like I discovered who I was at Morris. Arriving as a quiet, shy person who didn't say much, I came out of my shell at college. I lucked out and got placed on Indy 4C with some of the most amazing people I have ever met. The faculty and staff treated me as an equal and valued my opinion and perspective, which I still think is unusual, and allowed me to become a stronger, confident person.”
Hauge, an English major, worked at Briggs Library, co-chaired the Performing Arts Committee, and volunteered as a TREC tutor at the Morris Area Elementary School. She says those experiences were every bit as important as the classroom instruction was on her personal and professional achievements.
“Having attended, worked, and taught at other colleges throughout my student and professional career, I can say the student leadership opportunities are rare opportunities all Morris students should look into. Get involved and make a difference not just with the university, but with the Morris community.”
Hauge is currently a marketing manager for Forum Communications Co., a media and technology company. But her career has not been on a linear path.
“I have transitioned across many industries and positions...but they all had their start in the skills and experiences I had at Morris as a student, employee, intern, and citizen. I love what I’m doing. Promoting the importance of local journalism in our communities is fulfilling and important.”
Hauge encourages current students to make the most of their time at UMN Morris.
“I found my UMN Morris experience to be exactly what I needed and grew more as a person during my time there than I ever thought possible. Morris taught me to think about issues from multiple viewpoints and clearly state my thoughts while listening to others. I think I learned how to learn at Morris.”