Dakota State University

Alexis VanderWilt BS ‘21

Computer Science, Mathematics for Information Systems, Spanish Minor

Magic drew Alexis VanderWilt to Dakota State.

“I actually wanted to be a magician,” said the Mitchell, S.D. native.

When she heard that the Dakota State University GenCyber camp was going to have a magician perform one night, she attended the free camp just for the performance.

But instead of falling for magic, Alexis fell in love with the campus and with computers. While continuing her high school education, she attended more DSU cyber camps, and other computing opportunities, including an internship at Microsoft in Chicago one summer while still in high school. Now she is a junior here, double majoring in computer science and math for information systems, with a minor in Spanish.

“The environment is incredible here,” said Alexis. “The teachers really help you. In fact, they go out of their way to keep you informed. I love DSU for that,” she said. The university also sponsors frequent workshops and conferences, hosts guest speakers from national agencies and companies, and promotes student research.

“That’s one of the best experiences,” she said. When you have an idea for research, “the faculty let you take your ideas and let you run with them.”

Alexis’s research has earned her first place in the undergraduate category at the 2019 DSU Research Symposium; she presented that research at the Midwest Association for Information Systems Conference in Wisconsin last May, and has been invited to participate in the 7th Heidelberg Laureate Forum, held in Germany in September 2019. 

Alexis would like to continue doing research in her career, possibly in software development in industry or at a national laboratory. “I like to find new ways to solve problems.”

Her advice to fellow students is to “be flexible, because the jobs you are training for might not exist yet,” but DSU prepares you for that. “Be flexible and open-minded, and things will come your way.”

Computer Science (BS)

Tom Farrell BS ‘70

Physical Education

Tom Farrell planned to be a typing teacher and a coach when he started college in 1966. Since graduating from Dakota State in 1970, he has had three or four total careers over the last 49 years, all at DSU.

"People believed in me and gave me opportunities,” so “when a door opened, I looked in and said, “I guess I’ll try that.’”

He did manage to keep the coaching aspect of his life goals, coaching golf, wrestling, volleyball, and women’s basketball, but he also served twice as athletic director, and as academic coordinator “managing people I’d had as professors.”

But with the 1984 mission change, “typing became computers,” Farrell said. There were no textbooks at the time, no established curriculum, so he and a few other faculty members trained at the IBM Education Center in Texas, and brought their newly developed skills back to teach students.

"A big factor is you’ve got to become a life-long learner. If you quit learning, it’s over.”

The switch from teaching athletics to computers wasn’t hard. “Teaching is teaching,” Tom said. “You just have to break it down into individual steps, whether you’re teaching a badminton serve or programming a computer.”

Tom and the other DSU faculty first taught the programming language PL-1. Over the years that became Pasqual, C, C++ and then Visual Basic; networking courses were added later. Distance courses started when the university mailed video tapes of class lectures to students around the state. “It was very rudimentary, but it worked.” Later, classes were recorded, encoding, and digitized. “This really started many of the things we do today,” he said.

Distance education is still changing. Tom now teaches a summer course, CET 751, “Technology Hardware and Networking,” a six-day, residential class in which students learn about computer networks by disassembling computers. This course is part of the Master of Science in Educational Technology (MSET) program. This summer, one student in Vermont is going to take the class with the telepresence robot Dewey. “Dewey will be the 12th student in the class,” he said.

“We may be teaching face-to-face classes with just robots in the future,” he said. “Who know what that’s going to lead to?”

Tom also can’t predict DSU’s future in the next 50 years, but “I’m so pleased that DSU exhibits the ability to change.”

At one time, “we were happy to be a player in the state of South Dakota. Now we’ve launched ourselves into the national and international level of prominence,” Tom said. “I see nothing but positive things going forward. 

“It’s a great time to be a Trojan.”

Physical Education (BSE)

Master of Science in Educational Technology (MSET)

Andrew Kramer BS ‘15, MS ‘17

Cyber Operations, MS in Computer Science

“DSU is a hidden gem,” said Andrew Kramer. “I never would have expected that in South Dakota, in the middle of corn fields, you could find this incredible school and programs.”

Andrew said he was lucky to find it at right time in his life. A native of Etna, Calif. -- “Big Foot Country,” as it is known -- he graduated from high school and then took general education courses at the two-year school, the College of the Redwoods in Eureka, Calif.

“I was really interested in computer security, but didn’t know anything about it.” He started looking online for a four-year school, in a certain price range.

“DSU was at the top of that list,” Andrew said, because of a combination of factors, its reputation with the National Security Agency and its several designations as national Centers of Academic Excellence. Another factor was the low cost of both tuition and cost of living, plus he liked the small-town atmosphere.

Andrew has now received both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is an instructor of computer science. With his first-hand knowledge of the programs from the student perspective, he can finetune what he covers in his classes and bridge any curriculum gaps to be more effective.

Andrew really enjoys this work. “It provides me with all the career opportunities and I can live where want. That’s a very rare combination. I have every intention of staying here a while.”

He advises other transfer students to “use your time wisely. If you are a transfer student, you will not be here as long as traditional student, so your time to make connections is less. Be active and make new friends.”

He said it’s also important to participate outside of class. “The knowledge from classes is good, but you also need connections, through cyber competitions, evening activities, anything, even just to socialize.”

“It’s amazing how this can come back to help later on,” Andrew said, “at least, it’s been true in my experience.”

Cyber Operations (BS)

Computer Science (MSCS)

Mandi Stegenga BS ‘15, MSHIIM ‘18

Health Information Administration, MS in Health Informatics and Information Management

When Mandi Stegenga first came to DSU, she was an accounting major. “After my first semester, I realized I didn't like accounting as much as I thought,” she laughs. She switched her major to Health Information Administration, which is the study of managing health information and medical records, administering computer information systems, and collecting and analyzing patient data. It was a better fit and the beginning of a flourishing career in one of today’s hottest sectors.

“Growing up, my part-time job was as a receptionist at a health care facility,” Mandi says. “I’ve always had a passion for the field.”

She knew she was on the right path when, in her junior year, she began an internship at SD Health Link, a South Dakota Department of Health agency here in Madison. The organization helps hospitals, clinics and other providers statewide share electronic medical records quickly and easily on a secure platform. Their work promises to increase the quality, safety and efficiency of patient care.

“It started a few years ago,” says Mandi. “But there are still small, independent practices that may not be able to afford electronic medical record (EMR) software. They're slowly transitioning.”

The demand is high, she says, for IT specialists who can meet the unique security, privacy, and accuracy needs that health care demands.

Mandi interned at SD Health Link right up until graduation –– and then she was hired on as a Health IT Management Analyst.

To advance in the field, she decided to pursue a master’s degree in Health Informatics and Information Management. Since she was already a working professional, DSU’s top-rated, completely online program was the perfect fit. She completed her degree while working full time at Health Link.

By 2018, Mandi was promoted to Information Technology Specialist. Her main role is to train end-users on SD HealthLink services. Dakota State, she says, “has not only helped me with my current job but prepared me for the future.”

It’s an ever-changing future, says Mandi. “The field is only going to become more technically advanced. Eventually, interoperability (sharing patients’ health information across borders seamlessly) will be achieved –– maybe not in this lifetime, but at some point. And interoperability will provide better care.”

In both her degree programs, she benefited from individualized support. “All of the Health Information Management faculty members were always very encouraging,” she says. “They were always there when I had questions.”

Mandi, a Pierre native, played volleyball for the Trojans, but also chose DSU because of the small-town feel and class sizes to match. “Everybody knows everybody,” she says. “The close-knit campus allows you to get to know your classmates and professors better.”

Her advice to incoming students? Ask for help if you need it. “There's a lot of great people here who are willing to help you out,” she says. “And get involved with the campus community. 

Health Information Administration (BS)

Master of Science in Health Informatics and Information Management (MSHIIM)

Kanthi Narukonda MS ’19, PhD ‘21

MS in Information Systems, PhD in Information Systems

Kanthi Narukonda wants to be an example for young girls interested in cyber sciences.

“I hope to be a role model for the young women, to show what we can aspire to be.”

She knows that there are a limited number of female role models in the field, but by teaching at outreach programs through DSU’s CybHER, “I hope to change that for those kids so they know the different options they have, the different roles they can play, and the different experiences they can have. We hope that they can relate to someone.” CybHER hosts outreach events to empower, educate, and motivate girls in cyber security. “This opportunity has been the best for me. We do not have something like this back home in India,” Kanthi said.

She is inspired by the DSU faculty’s knowledge in cyber sciences. “They know what they are talking about, because they themselves have worked in the industry,” Kanthi said.

Because of small class sizes, you are able to interact with the faculty,” Kanthi added. “They know your name, and that’s very nice.” Friends of hers attend huge universities in other parts of the country, and they have had very different experiences.

“At Dakota State, I’m able to talk to anyone, and not get lost in the crowd,” she said, “And there are so many more opportunities here.” Some of these exist because of national distinctions the university holds, National Center of Academic Excellence designations granted by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security.

The professors and instructors are also dedicated and have a passion to teach. “If they have the knowledge and don’t teach, it’s a waste.” With the knowledge she has gained here, she would like to stay and teach at Dakota State, if she gets the opportunity.

Kanthi advises others to “have faith in yourself and never feel like an imposter.” She recommends that students find a great support system, “and we have that here. We want you to succeed, and know that someone has faith in you besides -- or in spite of -- yourself.”

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems (PhDIS)

Kayla Mentele BBA ‘20

Finance, Marketing

Homey environment. Great education. Financial value.

These are some of the reasons Kayla Mentele chose to attend Dakota State University, not far from her home in Salem, S.D.

“The small campus gave me the ability to create closer relationships with the other students and faculty,” said the marketing and finance double major.

The great education includes coursework that implements technology in all majors. “Technology is so present in all the careers that students will be going into, so even a general background in technology is worth a lot to employers,” she said.

And DSU’s affordability has been noted in a number of college ranking systems, including being ranked as one of the most affordable accounting schools by Best Value Schools.

Clubs and extra-curricular activities also benefit students. Through the professional business club, Phi Beta Lambda (PBL), “we learn to apply the classroom knowledge. It’s a way to test and see if we have learned the material. It’s a great way to test out opportunity and create new ones.” Kayla represented DSU’s club at the PBL state and regional competition last spring, and at the national competition this summer.

“There are lots of clubs on-campus students can enjoy,” Kayla said, “something to fit all personalities.” They also provide students with a way to network and meet people. Intermural sports such as basketball, volleyball, softball, or Frisbee golf, are another unique and exciting opportunity if you enjoy the sports but not at a competitive collegiate level.

“They’re lots of high-energy fun in a non-competitive environment,” she said, and a chance to refresh yourself. “It’s good to let your brain rest and get some physical activity.”

While at DSU, Kayla recommends students “be active on campus, and get involved in clubs. It’s a great way to grow in your interests and to find new ones.”

Advice she shares with perspective students is to “pursue a path that fits your interests and passions.” While this can be hard when looking ahead four years, “there is the ability to change your major if it’s not the right path.” 

Her summer internship in digital marketing Sanford Health has helped her get an idea of job opportunities and preferences, and after graduation she expects to find a job in marketing or finance, because “almost every business has a definite need.”

Finance (BBA)

Marketing (BBA)

Ganga Basyal MS ‘18, PhD '21

MS in Information Systems, PhD in Information Systems

Ganga Basyal’s previous work experience in industry shows in his analytical attitude toward choosing an education.

“There are three things you should look at when deciding on a university,” he said, things he considered when deciding to attend Dakota State after seven years working in the technology management industry.

1. Course structure and design
2. Flexibility of the plan of study
3. Cost

DSU topped all other institutions on this criteria list, so Ganga came to study for his master’s degree, which he received in the fall of 2018; he is now continuing his studies towards a PhD in Information Systems.

“The curriculum and the structure is exactly what I need,” he said, a mixture of technology and management. “DSU provides that perfect blend.” Flexibility with the programming enables the student to “design your own plan of study according to your need.” The affordability of DSU is also a benefit, Ganga said. Other schools can cost two to three times as much, and living expenses in Madison are not that costly.

Ganga also appreciates that along with “the best exposure to academics,” Dakota State provides access to extra-curricular academic and professional opportunities. These include guest speaker presentations, seminars, and workshops with international companies like Amazon and LinkedIn. These are generally live-streamed so that online and on-campus students can benefit.

That is only part of the strong industry connection. With industry advisory boards for each of the university’s four colleges, “we get the best updates from the industry as to what the industry needs are regarding knowledge. DSU is aligned with industry.”

The people are also a benefit. Faculty remember your name, Ganga said, and “that doesn’t happen in a big school. You can build relationships here.”

Those relationships contributed to one of his best experiences at DSU, helping form, administer, and manage the first-ever DSU Cricket Club. People at Dakota State and the community of Madison have offered great support which helped “make the dream happen,” said the native of Indore, India. “People are very good here.”

After receiving his PhD, Ganga is open to working in industry, but is more interested in teaching as a faculty member at a university. Luckily, “DSU provides you with the options to go into industry or academia.”

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

Doctor of Philosophy in Information Systems (PhDIS)

Mason Wieman BS ‘21

Digital Arts & Design: Digital Sound Design

Audio production is an art. “You do have to practice it and develop new techniques to get the sound you want,” said Mason Wieman, a digital sound design major from Crooks, S.D.

He was “big into music,” playing trumpet, some piano and guitar, and singing. Then Mason attended the campus visit opportunity called Discover DSU Day while he was still in high school. He saw that the Digital Arts and Design (or DAD program) incorporates all forms of arts and design in their studies, but still focus on a specialization, either digital sound design (formerly called audio production), film and cinematic arts, computer graphics, or production animation.

“No other campuses had a program like this,” he said. After two years on campus, “I’m loving it so far.”

Although Dakota State “is big for me,” it’s small enough that the audio majors all know each other. “We’re like a community,” Mason said, “we know each other really well.” One of those community connections was with recent graduate D. J. Redlin. Redlin had been working with a local community choir, Madison MasterSingers, providing audio and recording at their biannual concerts. Shortly before Redlin graduated, he approached Mason about taking over for him. “This was very cool,” Mason said. “I really love doing this. It’s a lot of fun.”

Other opportunities with live music have come through on-campus events. Some of these have been the best college experiences for Mason. “DSU brings a lot of talent to campus,” he said, sometimes from national venues such as America’s Got Talent. He has worked with professionals such as magician Steven Brundage, and through the on-campus concerts such as DSU Live, students work with live bands. “That’s a great portfolio builder for audio students, and it’s a great hands-on experience for learning the real world of the business."

There are a lot of options in audio production, from studio work to live events to sound design for companies, but “I’m liking the live sound and running live events,” he said. During the summer, he was an intern with Pinnacle Productions in Sioux Falls, SD, a real-world experience that has helped build his portfolio.

He advises prospective students to “be ambitious, be excited to learn, and seize every opportunity you can and put yourself out there,” even if it’s an unpaid event.

“Don’t be afraid to volunteer your time and see what you can learn.”

Digital Arts and Design: Digital Sound Design (BS)

Carl Petersen BS ‘21

Computer Game Design, Computer Science, Mathematics for Information Systems

“I don’t like to be bored,” said Carl Petersen, a senior from Parade, S.D.

That is not a problem for the triple major in computer game design, computer science, and mathematics for information systems. In fact, he is one of the busier students on campus, and off campus.

During his college years, he has traveled to conferences in California, including BlizzCon and the Game Developers Conference GDC, and participated in the 2018 38+2 Ride and the 2018 Chief Bigfoot Memorial Ride. He has held summer jobs: as a tour guide at the Crazy Horse Memorial near Custer, S.D.: with Missouri Breaks Industries Research; and with the state’s Unified Judicial System. He also participated in study away programs, visiting Paris, Germany, and Belgium in 2018.

Despite all this travel, the best thing his Dakota State education will provide for him is “the ability to stay in South Dakota.” While he appreciates other countries and cultures, “Living anywhere else would be hard. That’s the most valuable thing for me, being able to stay home,” while he pursues his degrees.

Through his experiences with the Gaming Club and the annual IDiG (Integrated Design in Games) event, Carl has been able to learn about the struggles people face getting involved in the game design industry, which is now bigger than the film industry. He had originally planned to find a job in California in a AAA game studio, but after traveling and seeing the world, that doesn’t have any appeal for him.

“I don’t see a reason to leave South Dakota to chase something that’s not really me, that’s not about doing something that I want to do. DSU has really helped me figure that out.”

To help make his dream of staying South Dakota a reality, Carl won a $10,000 Dreamstarter grant in 2019, which he will use to start his own game design company, Northern Plains Game Design. This studio will be located on the reservation, and employ Native Americans to create games for Native Americans. The first game idea is called Tipi Builder, in which players build the structure with instructions in the Lakota language. This concept is unique and different, but DSU has an abundance of people who think differently, he said. “We’re not cookie-cutter people.”

His advice to prospective students is to “find what you’re interested in and do what’s going to make you happy.” He knows people can “do anything you want, but also ask what’s best for you.”

Computer Game Design (BS)

Computer Science (BS)