Hanna Wieland
Hanna Wieland knew VCSU was the place for her the second she stepped on campus. Now preparing to graduate, Wieland reflects on her time and experiences she’s had as a Viking.
Hometown: Dazey, N.D.
Graduation Year: 2026
Major: Digital Design & Communications; Concentrate in Digital Media; Marketing Minor
What or who inspired you to major in both digital design and communications?
I have always loved being creative and connecting with people so choosing Digital Design and Communications was a way I could do both. I’ve always been drawn to projects where I can visually tell a story while also thinking about how it will resonate with an audience, which made this combination feel like a natural fit for me.
Why did you choose VCSU?
I chose VCSU because not only was I able to play volleyball, but everyone on campus was so welcoming and made it feel like home. From the moment I visited, it felt like a place where I could grow both as a student and as a person. Being able to find my path through exploration and guidance from various mentors across campus was so impactful in my time here. Those relationships really helped shape my confidence and direction throughout college.
What are you involved in on campus?
VCSU Volleyball, NSLS, Spring Blast Co-Chair, Design Club, Alumni & Foundation Office Digital Design Student Assistant, and The College Tour VCSU Student Feature.
Can you share a project or portfolio piece you’re especially proud of?
I am so proud and excited to share my Visual Arts Capstone, which was also featured in the VCSU Center for the Arts Gallery. This project pushed me creatively and allowed me to bring together everything I’ve learned throughout my time at VCSU. It was one of the first branding-focused projects that I completed and helped solidify my passion for creating things for others.
How do you approach creative challenges in design or media projects?
When I am having creative challenges, talking through things out loud is always so helpful for me. Although, when I am very stuck, I will go against all advice and just restart the part of the process I am on because a clean slate is always helpful!
How do you stay organized and focused on both academics and athletics?
Finding a routine for coursework and having a good balance between everything in life is huge when balancing athletics and academics. One thing that was helpful was planning out my week and what I need to complete and when. All the professors at VCSU were also so supportive and communicated with me when I had to be gone, which made it so much easier.
Have you completed an internship related to a career you’re interested? If yes, can you tell us about it?
I have been an intern at the Valley City Barnes County Development Corporation for just over two years now. In my role, I have assisted with a variety of different economic development focused projects but my main focus in that role is to design digital and print content, collaborate on marketing strategies and content creation for the office as well as the Valley City Good Life Campaign, and provide any support I can in the office from research to administrative tasks. Through my internship, I have gained the opportunity to support the community of Valley City in a variety of ways. I have been able to be a part of the Summer Nights on Central Committee, where we organize events with live music, food, and activities that bring people of all ages together downtown. Last summer, I was also able to plan, design, and paint a mural in downtown Valley City, which was an amazing opportunity to get my work out there.
I also have been a student employee for the Foundation Office on campus. In this role, I focused solely on design for both digital platforms and print materials such as the bulletin, postcards, and even event assets for the office.
What career are you interested in pursuing post-graduation?
I am seeking a career in the digital design, communications, or marketing fields in which there is opportunity for me to grow both professionally, creatively, and personally. I am also interested in roles that allow me to combine strategy and design while working on meaningful projects that connect with people.
What advice do you have for students looking to pursue a degree in digital design or communications?
For anyone pursuing a degree in digital design or communications, I would say to always say yes to any opportunities that come your way. Some of favorite experiences and project have come from being open to different opportunities. You never know which experience will open new doors, so staying curious and involved can make a huge difference.
