NE North Dakota News

Jessica Smestad has been the director of Minot State University's Honors Program since 2016. Her journey with the program began while teaching a problem-solving class, which led her to explore various subjects in different classrooms. The interdisciplinary nature of the Honors Program, aimed at high-achieving students, aligns well with her expertise.

Smestad is originally from Minot and holds an undergraduate degree in English from the University of North Dakota and a Master's degree in higher education and student affairs from the University of Connecticut.

In an interview conducted by Minot State’s University Communications, Smestad shared insights into her career and the Honors Program. She stated, "I have worked at Minot State since June 2010. I started as the Tutoring and Mentoring Coordinator in the Center for Engaged Teaching & Learning." Over time, she also served as interim director for both the Looyenga Leadership Center and First-Year Experience program.

Discussing her move back to North Dakota after living on the East Coast, Smestad said, "Minot is my hometown... I was also enthusiastic about working at a smaller university after being at larger institutions for several years."

The Honors Program offers students opportunities to earn either a concentration or minor through honors-specific courses while fulfilling general education requirements. Smestad explained that these courses help develop skills such as communication, critical thinking, leadership, cultural competencies, and civic engagement.

Reflecting on her graduate studies in Connecticut, she described it as "very different from North Dakota," noting challenges like traffic congestion during her commute but appreciating the growth experience it provided.

When asked about choosing English as her undergraduate major, she simply said it was because "English/language arts has always been my favorite school subject."

On memorable moments in teaching, Smestad expressed difficulty choosing just one due to numerous rewarding experiences with students: "My favorite courses to teach are those that encourage students to be creative... I get to witness dramatic personal growth."

Outside work hours, Smestad enjoys reading, cycling, photography among other hobbies; she also actively participates on boards for local organizations like StrengthenND.

Minot State University emphasizes excellence through rigorous academics combined with community engagement efforts fostering vibrant campus life experiences.