BHSU-Rapid City grad hired in final college semester for dream HR job

Full-time jobs, internships, and advanced degrees. In this series, Black Hills State University will highlight the future plans of some of the University’s May 2019 graduates.

Name, major, and hometown?
Julie Penney, business administration - human resource management major from Alliance, Neb.

What were you involved with on campus?
I was involved in the Student Advisory Board at BHSU-Rapid City. I really enjoyed being part of the Board and having my and other students voices heard.

Who is your favorite professor at BHSU?
Dr. Carrie Stringham. She taught the class very well. She knows what she’s doing because she’s worked in this profession. With me being a little older, when she came into the class - I felt like we clicked right away.

Tell me about your plans after graduation.
I just started a job in human resource management in February at Simon in Rapid City. I’m doing exactly what I wanted to do with my degree.

Tell me about a moment you experienced personal growth during college?
Growth was more gradual for me. You start out not knowing what to expect in college with the classes, and then you realize, “I can do this.” You gain a confidence as you go through each semester.

What will you miss about Black Hills State?
I will miss meeting the professors and the students. When you start a college class there’s a certain anxiousness and excitement. I’ll miss that excitement and being in the classroom.

What’s your favorite memory at Black Hills State?
I received a few scholarships from BHSU and when I was given that support it really made me feel good. It showed BHSU was willing to invest in me.

How as BHSU prepared you for your future?
A college degree gives you critical thinking skills. Even though I had those skills, I feel a degree sharpens that ability.

What does it mean to you to be a first-generation college student?
If you have a dream of getting a degree, it’s not too late. We made sure our kids achieved their college degrees, and I was in college while they were in college, too. It is something that is really special to our family now - a dream fulfilled together.

BHSU will celebrate the university’s 177th Commencement Ceremony at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 4 at the Donald E. Young Sports and Fitness Center. The public is invited to join and celebrate the students’ achievements. An honorary doctorate will be bestowed upon Lieutenant Colonel Brett J. Theeler, MD, BHSU Class of 2001, neurologist and fellowship-trained neuro-oncologist in the U.S. Army Medical Corps.