David Engen, Associate Professor, Department of Communication Studies

Hometown

• Fridley, MN

Schools Attended

• Anoka-Ramsey Community College
• Minnesota State University, Mankato
• Auburn University
• Bowling Green State University

Things we can talk about

Really you name it. Majors, careers, podcasting and audio storytelling, how to get involved with extracurricular activities, fears or frustrations about college, how to use your strengths as a student, etc.

I am available for

• Phone calls
• Email conversations
• Zoom calls
• Personal meetings in office or for coffee

Please feel free to contact me and we will figure out a way to have a conversation. 

Why I want to be a Maverick Firsts Advocate

I was a first-generation college student. Neither of my parents graduated high-school, actually. They were smart and kind and thoughtful in 1000 ways, but they knew nothing about college. I didn’t either. Although I had a good college career, I wish there were some things I knew earlier about college. As a professor, I find a lot of students are a little unsure of how to get involved with things in college, and I like to be able to help with that. I also find that some of my first-generation students don’t always notice the strengths they bring with them to college, and I like to explore those strengths with students. I enjoy talking with all students, but especially with first-generation students looking to find a place here at college and in their lives after college.

Things I’m connected with that might be of interest to you

For 15 years I hosted a radio show on our campus radio station KMSU. Over the years a lot of my students have gotten involved with KMSU as DJs and in other positions. Talk to me if interested.

I was one of the faculty members who created the Finding Your Place College Podcast. I’m always working on projects trying to get student voices heard. Let me know if you have a story you’d like to share.