Elaine Reed

Elaine Reed

When Elaine Reed first filled out the Common Application for Montana colleges, she didn’t expect it to change the course of her life. In fact, she wasn’t even aware that MSU-Northern existed—until she saw “Havre” appear on the list.

“I turned to my mom and said, ‘Did you know there’s a college in Havre?’” Elaine laughed. “And she said, ‘Well, yes—your cousin teaches there.’ We’d just never talked about it.”

That cousin, faculty member Brandon Matson, became one of several reasons Northern quickly climbed to the top of her college choices. The campus was far enough from her home in Columbia Falls to give her independence, but close enough for weekend visits. Financial aid made Northern the most affordable option, and the train line offered an easy route home when needed. “It just made sense,” she said. “Everything fell into place.”

Building a Future in Business

Elaine is now a Business Administration major, double-minoring in Small Business Management and Accounting. She originally dreamed of opening her own restaurant or food truck, but a summer job shifted her plans.

“I worked for Glacier Bank on their call team and really enjoyed it,” she explained. “It made me realize I might want something more nine-to-five—something that leaves time for a family someday.” The banking world, she said, gives her the chance to use her business skills without the grueling hours of the restaurant industry.

A Leader on Campus

Since arriving at Northern, Elaine has become one of the most involved students on campus.

  • She serves on Chi Alpha Leadership, helping lead worship and hosting a student small group.
  • Last year, she was an RA in Mackenzie Hall, and this year she stepped into the role of Assistant Resident Director for Student Family Housing.
  • She works as a peer tutor, assisting students with writing assignments across all disciplines.
  • Beyond campus, she volunteers with the youth group at Community Alliance Church.

“Being involved has helped Northern feel like home,” she said. “I’ve met so many amazing people.”

Learning Abroad

One of Elaine’s most memorable experiences came last spring, when she traveled to London with a group of MSU-Northern students. The 10-day trip was packed with culture, history, and constant movement.

“We hit the ground running and didn’t stop,” she said. “It wasn’t exactly a relaxing spring break, but it was such a valuable learning experience. Everything there is different—more urban, fast-paced, and incredibly diverse.”

Looking Ahead

Life is full and exciting for Elaine. This summer, she and her fiancé will get married before returning to Northern to finish their degrees together. He plans to complete his second year in the Electrical Technology program after transferring from Flathead Valley Community College.

After graduation, Elaine hopes to find work in the banking world—or perhaps return to her entrepreneurial dreams someday. Whatever path she chooses, she carries with her the confidence, community, and practical experience she found at MSU-Northern.

“Northern wasn’t even on my radar at first,” she said. “Now I can’t imagine being anywhere else.”

Find out more about the MSUN Business Administration program, and the Small Business Management and Accounting minors!