Time management: A skill required by most individuals to ensure their day goes as planned. Even so, few can compare to the time management skills of recent Northern State University spring graduate Lindsey Brooks.
As a full-time student at NSU, Research Analyst for Hartlend Capitol and regional market manager for CBO, business owner of “ModernMama Design Co.” and mother of one, Brooks often finds herself with a full schedule.
Originally a student at North Dakota State University for apparel merchandising and design, Brooks went to beauty school before finding herself at Northern for finances.
“My family has always been very crafty,” says Brooks. “So they gave me a weird look when I told them I wanted to study finances.”
Brooks described her time before NSU as “just spinning her wheels” and how attending NSU’s School of Business gave her a sense of direction.
“I wanted to be successful,” she explained on the topic of why she went into finance. “I didn’t want to struggle if I decided to have another child, or struggle to support the child I have now. I figured—It couldn’t hurt, plus, no one can take your education away from you.
Friendly Professors Helped
Albeit a busy schedule, Brooks has found success in the network of professors at NSU. Brooks described the School of Business as “personal,” and how it helped to have smaller class sizes and very friendly professors.
“It’s nice, being able to email your professor and explain: ‘My kid has a fever, and I can’t come to class.’ They are very understanding.”
Brooks said her NSU classes have helped her to find a great career, as well as manage her personal business better.
“Finance offers essential skills, like how to do your own book-keeping, and has really helped me make decisions for my business."
Grew Network through Internship
Brooks also found support through being a part of the Kiwanis organization, a foundation dedicated to supporting children through local service projects and fundraising. Initially there as an intern through NSU, Brooks has found herself an incredible network in which to help build her business.
“To have a group of 50 plus years gentlemen cheering you on—it’s really inspiring.”
Kiwanis also helped in giving her connections that most individuals her age would not have.
“I’ve met so many people through Kiwanis, like executives of the biggest banks in Aberdeen. It is amazing who you get to shake hands with!”
Worked Through Struggles
There were struggles, with Brooks often times finding herself having to tell Ryder, her son, that she couldn’t play because she had to write a paper.
Alongside homework, Brooks had to keep up with her business, “ModernMama Design Co.,” an apparel and design shop with unique projects and products such as baby outfits recycled from family keepsakes. Some nights, Brooks had to stay awake until 2 a.m. sewing to get projects done.
While lack of sleep often took a toll on her grades at times, the hard work was worth it.
“Ultimately, I could look in the mirror, and be happy with what I was doing.” She said.
Motivated by her son, Ryder, Brooks intends to continue her business, possibly expanding her shops, and hopes to advance in her career field exponentially—equipped with the tools from her Northern education.