TRiO Student Support Services
Box, 2815, SSU  065
Brookings, SD 57007-1599

Phone: 605-688-6653

Email: sdsu.trio@sdstate.edu

I hail from Watertown, South Dakota.  I am a sophomore and I am majoring in psychology and biology.  I LOVE to hunt and I trapped for a short time when I had more time.  I have one biological brother and two stepsiblings, a brother and a sister.  My nine-month-old lab puppy’s name is Augustus.

Fun Fact:  I have been “beard-capable” since 6^th grade.

Leah Bohlander

Hi! I’m originally from Britton, SD. I am a sophomore at SDSU majoring in News/Ed. Journalism and minoring in Equine Studies. This is my first year mentoring and I’m really excited!

Fun Fact: I’m an identical twin and I’m on the SDSU Equestrian Team.

Advice for other students: Try not to procrastinate! I know that is easier said than done, but in the long run avoiding procrastination will pay off.

Brooke Jensen

Hey! I’m a sophomore Biology/Pre-Med major from Humboldt, SD. I am currently involved in Alpha Xi Delta, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, Golden Key International Honor Society, Pre-professional program, American Medical Student Association, and Women’s Choir.

Fun Fact:  I am planning on going to Medical school to become a pediatrician or oncologist.

Advice for other students: Don’t limit yourself with the constraints that people set for you.

Jacob Knippling

Hi! I’m a junior Agriculture major here at SDSU. I am originally from a small town in south central South Dakota called Gann Valley. I attended high school in Miller, SD. I was a tutor in high school, as well as a member of the National Honor Society and I played football and wrestled.  I enjoy spending time with friends, working on the family ranch, riding and training horses and playing sports. In the future, I hope to return to the family ranch and become a partner. Here at SDSU, I am a member of Alpha Gamma Rho fraternity, as well as the Block and Bridal Club. I was also an executive member of the Inter-Fraternity Council on campus last year.

Fun Fact:  I have 3 brothers and 6 sisters. I am also a Certified Auctioneer.

Hello! I’m from Alexandria, SD. This is my junior year and I’m majoring in Sociology. After graduation from SDSU, I hope to go on to get my Masters in Social Work. After I’m done with all my schooling, I hope to work with the adoption aspect of social work. This is my third year being involved with the TRiO program and my second year as a Peer Mentor. I am also involved with the TRiO Advisory Board and work in the TRiO office. In my spare time I love being with friends and family.

Fun Fact: I am the youngest and only girl in my family with four older brothers.

Advice for other students: Always try your best in everything you do no matter what the situation. Give your all!

CRLA Certification: Level 1

Kiley Rosendahl

Hey! I’m from the super small town of Algena, IA.  I am Mathematics major and in my second year at SDSU.  This is my first year as a Peer Mentor. When I graduate, I will be commissioned into the United States Air Force. After I get out of the Air Force, I plan on opening a bakery. In my spare time I love to cook, draw, run, and read.

Fun Fact: A unique fact about me is that I can bark like a dog.

Advice for other students: Stay positive! Don’t expect to know everything in every class.

Amanda Rubischko

Hi! My major is Nursing. My hometown is Fairfax, MN (2.5 hours away). This is my first year as a Peer Mentor and I also work as an Office Assistant for TRiO. My future plans include being an RN and possibly continuing school to obtain an advanced degree such as a Nurse Practitioner. My interests include relaxing and going to the movies.

Fun Fact:  I am recently engaged to my fiancé of four years! I am also addicted to chapstick!!!

Advice for other students: Get tutors before it’s too late and utilize the TRIO and Wintrode Tutoring Programs. Try to review your notes every night, but remember to have fun!

Danna Sanders

Hi! I’m a Nursing major in my sophomore year. I am from Pierre, SD. While in high school I mentored 4^th and 5^th grade students.  After I graduate, I would like to be an OB Nurse. I love to scrapbook and spend time with my family and friends.

Fun Fact:  I have two different colored eyes.

Advice for other students: Don’t be afraid to ask for and get help sooner rather than later. Tutors are great; use them to your advantage!

Hi!  I’m currently pursuing a degree in Mathematics with History as my minor. I’m in my third year at SDSU and my second year as a TRiO Peer Mentor.

Fun Fact:  The most unique thing about me is that I can’t wait for winter!

Advice for other students: Participate in all the events SDSU has to offer.

CRLA Certification: Level 1