Meet Hannah Nerdin, who recently graduated from Ensign College with a bachelor's in business management. This fall she starts a master’s program at Cornell University, an Ivy League institution renowned for its rigorous academics and global influence. She spoke with us about how Ensign helped her find this path for her life.
Opening Doors
Hannah had attended other universities before her mission, and she decided to come to Ensign to because “it seemed relatively more affordable and a better fit.” Her initial plan was to complete her general education courses at Ensign and then transfer to a larger school. “I chose to say because of the teachers, students, and opportunities,” Hannah said. “Ensign opened a lot of doors for me.”
One of those doors was an HR management class at Ensign. “That class was a real eye-opener,” she says. It introduced her to Human Resources and combined her interests in people, psychology, and business. Captivated, Hannah’s passion for HR was born.
As she pursued a certificate in Human Resources, she had opportunities to meet HR professionals, which led to a job at a pest control company as a talent acquisition coordinator. The Vice President of Human Resources at that company became a mentor. He had received a master’s degree from Cornell, so he “kind of influenced my desire to also go to Cornell.”
With guidance and a clear goal, Hannah applied to Cornell’s prestigious master’s program and was accepted. She will begin her studies this fall, marking the culmination of her journey that started with a single class at Ensign College.
How Ensign College Shaped Hannah’s Success
Ensign College provided more than just a solid education; it offered a unique and impactful experience. Here’s how Ensign helped Hannah achieve her dreams and how it can benefit you:
- Personalized Approach: Ensign College’s small class sizes and personal connections to classmates and instructors made a big difference. “The personalized approach at Ensign College was fantastic,” Hannah says. With classes of just 20-25 students, she received attention and support often missing in larger schools, fostering a strong connection and sense of community.
- Practical Skills for the Real World: Unlike many universities that focus heavily on memorization, Ensign emphasizes practical application. “Ensign's more about realistic application,” Hannah notes. Instead of rote memorization, students work with real businesses, collaborate on projects, and develop workplace skills. This approach “helped me grow in ways that were more beneficial than just memorizing facts,” Hannah explains.
- Flexibility and Empowerment: Ensign College’s flexibility allowed Hannah to shape her educational path. The Business Management program, in particular, allows students to choose from a number of specialized certificates to focus their degree on their individual goals and interests. “The freedom to choose my path was empowering,” she says.
- Spiritual Integration: Hannah valued the spiritual aspect of her Ensign education. “I really enjoyed the spiritual aspect,” she shares. Classes began with prayer and spiritual thoughts, adding a meaningful dimension to her learning. “This spiritual element helped me learn more deeply and enrich my understanding beyond the classroom,” she explains.
- Affordable and Accessible Education: Ensign College’s affordability was a significant advantage. Hannah funded her education through her own efforts, avoiding heavy student debt. “Ensign College proves you can achieve a quality education without incurring debt,” she says. This financial freedom allowed her to focus on her studies and future goals.
- Building Valuable Connections: Participation in the Business Club prepared her to participate in DECA and SHRM competitions. These activities gave Hannah experience and networking opportunities crucial for her career transition. “These experiences helped me transition smoothly from school to my career,” she shares.
The Takeaway
Hannah’s story illustrates the powerful impact of Ensign College’s personalized and flexible education. Her journey from a supportive start at Ensign to success at Cornell University highlights how a strong foundation can lead to remarkable opportunities. Ensign College provided Hannah with practical skills, flexibility, valuable connections, and a spiritually enriching experience—all of which paved the way for her success at an Ivy League institution.
“I would definitely recommend Ensign College,” says Hannah. “It’s a place for growing and becoming, where you get out what you put in. You can really structure your education how you want to, and Ensign leaves it open for you to do that.” She feels incredibly proud of her accomplishments and credits Ensign College for playing a crucial role in her journey.
Ready to Forge Your Own Path?
If you're seeking a college experience that offers personalized support and real-world preparation, Ensign College could be the ideal place to start your journey. Discover how Ensign can help you achieve your dreams. Explore Ensign College today and take the first step toward your future! For more details on admissions and application procedures, visit Ensign College’s website or contact our admissions team.