Graduating Senior Spotlight: Josie Frandrup

What brought you to the University of Minnesota and how did you end up choosing your major(s) and minor(s)?

I transferred from the University of North Dakota after my freshman year, and wanted to major/minor in something very broad that would open many doors for me since I had so many different passions. 

Which CLA class or professor has had the biggest impact on you? Why?

Dr. Jeremy Rose, because he was so kind and cared deeply about each and every one of his students. I had him for two classes and still keep in touch with him, even though I haven't had him as a professor for over a year. Thank you! 

Andrea Shada brought comedy to both classes I took with her, I absolutely loved every second of COMM 3411 and 3422. Thank you!

Mary Vavrus is the most empathetic and understanding professor. She is filled with so much wisdom that is evident in her lectures. I had a lot of takeaways from her course that made me a more confident person overall. Thank you!

What course would you recommend for other students in your major? And for students outside of your major, what course would be a good introduction to what you study?

I would recommend COMM 3422 - Interviewing and Communication because it gave me important Human Resources (HR) skills. I also would recommend LEAD 1961W - Personal Leadership in the University because it helped me to be a more confident student.

Tell us about a class you still think a lot about.

I will never forget my COMM 3411 - Small Group and Team Communication class because my small group that I was paired with throughout the whole semester was so diverse and fun to hang out around.

What has been your favorite part of your experience with your department(s) and within your major(s) and minor(s)?

I absolutely love how the communications department has so many scholarships available to students. It made my years at the U a lot easier knowing that I had some aid along the way. I also loved my communications advisor, Lisa Clark, who made the transition to the U so much easier. She also helped guide me through my undergraduate years with ease, thank you Lisa!

What is one aspect of your major or minor that has surprised you? What do you wish more people understood about what you study?

One aspect of my major that surprised me is how versatile it is in any field of work you go into. I am a People and Culture HR Intern, and my communications major has helped me in so many ways, even though it's not directly related to HR. I wish people knew how many career paths you can have when you are a communications major!

What are some ways you have found community within your major/minor department(s)? 

I will always make a friend in class to ensure that if I am ever missing, they can fill me in. Throughout my 3 years, I have had a few classes where I end up signing up [for future classes] with a previous classmate, which makes class even more enjoyable. I also studied abroad in Florence during a May Session with people studying similar things, which was super rewarding.

What's next for you? What are your post-graduation plans?

I will transition into a full-time role at the company where I am currently interning: Health Dimensions Group!

If you had the world's attention for 30 seconds, what would you say?

Have faith that your path is uniquely yours and perfectly crafted for you, and that life is what you make of it!

Is there an app you hate but use anyways?

All social media. 

If you could be any member on a TV show, who would you be?

I would be a contestant on Dancing With the Stars.