Hannah Thorlakson
There is a theory that people are either right-brained or left-brained.
If you are mostly analytical and methodical in your thinking, theory says you’re left-brained. Creative and artistic? Then you’re right-brained.
Hannah Thorlakson may just be both.
Originally from Langdon, N.D., she grew up balancing her analytic left brain and her creative right brain with a blend of musical passion and an interest in numbers and business.
As a first-generation college student, Hannah wasn’t sure where to begin. She found answers by joining the First-Generation College Students Club.
Through her involvement in multiple organizations, Hannah has embraced her ability to blend analytical precision and artistic expression.
Playing several instruments in high school, she learned quickly that she loved the trumpet. At the same time, she also discovered a strong affinity for accounting during business classes.
There was no hesitation when it came to college. “I always knew I wanted to come to UND. I didn’t explore any other institutions,” she said. “I knew a couple of the music professors; they led me here.”
Initially undecided on which program to pursue, she started with a minor in music, a decision that aligned well with her passion for music. However, she found herself drawn to the structured allure of accounting and business studies in the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration.
I used to say that accounting was my purpose and music was my passion. But UND has helped me realize that I don’t have to choose between the two, I can do both!
As a first-generation college student, Hannah wasn’t sure where to begin, especially with her interest in very different programs.
She found answers to many questions in the First-Generation College Students Club, where she now serves as president. Covering nearly every topic from studying tips to scholarships, the club helps guide first-generation students through their education with confidence.
“We are a group of people who truly do care for each other and want the best for each other,” she said. “We are very similar, and we’ve all had relatively similar experiences. It’s nice to have that community.”
By joining the UND Honors Program, Hannah was held to a higher standard and helped her realize she's capable of more than she thought.
This support helped Hannah carve out her academic path, switching her music minor to a major, and adding accounting as a second major.
“I used to say that accounting was my purpose and music was my passion. But UND has helped me realize that I don’t have to choose between the two, I can do both!” Hannah stated. “UND has been very helpful. You’re able to take so many different classes and my professors truly push me and encourage me to keep going.”
Her unwavering commitment to both passions not only allowed her to take on numerous leadership roles within the music department, but it also led her to embrace the challenge of adding accounting as a second major, giving her a unique perspective and equipping her with a diverse set of skills.
I would tell any prospective student that regardless of their majors to be involved.
Hannah also joined the UND Honors Program. Holding her to a higher standard, the Honors Program opened Hannah’s eyes not only to different perspectives, but it helped her realize she’s capable of more than she thought.
“It’s nice to be pushed, and it’s nice to know that you’re capable of being pushed like that,” she said. “I think the Honors Program showed me that hard work pays off.”
Through her involvement in multiple campus organizations, Hannah has embraced her ability to blend analytical precision and artistic expression as a true reflection of her time and experiences at UND. “I would tell any prospective student that regardless of their majors to be involved.” Hannah said. “And if they are debating between majors, take classes in both areas. Double majoring in two completely different fields is very doable!”
From the moment she set foot on campus, UND has given her the nurturing environment and unwavering support she needed to thrive in both fields. “I figured everything out because of UND and the support they’ve offered,” she said. Hannah's journey as a first-generation student serves as a shining example that determination, resilience and support of the UND community help make anything possible.