I was an undergrad 1997-2001 and it’s been amazing to watch the campus evolve and transform since that time. We used to be able to drive through campus and there was always a stream of students battling against the stream of cars in front of Rotunda!

I’ve lived happily in Brookings for over 25 years! After I earned my undergrad in 2001, we moved to Eden Prairie, MN for three years before a family business opportunity brought us back. Eventually, I went back to SDSU for my Master’s (M.M.C.) My two children were raised in Brookings and are both current Jackrabbits. I’ve worked in several industries during my career, owned and worked for small businesses, volunteered and held public office, and most recently pivoted to community banking. I’m Marketing/Training Director for BankStar Financial in Brookings, which allows me to creatively wear several hats and provide impact on different levels. I love it!

My biggest advice is geared towards Liberal Arts students. Since many majors don’t lead directly to specific careers or industries, liberal arts grads need to become skilled sharing about their professional skills to advocate for yourself in hiring situations. Learn what you’re good at and what you like doing, then figure out how to describe those skills in a way that can be applied to each specific opportunity you chase. None of my roles have specifically required a History degree, per se, but I became good at talking about how I am able to learn and absorb new information, analyze large amounts of text, and write and frame my thoughts effectively – any many roles require those skills.  

Leah Brink
Marketing & Training Director
BankStar Financial