A Scholar on the Cusp of Graduation  

Brad Dahlin, a graduating senior in the Communication department at SOU, is a recipient of the Olsrud scholarship, which has supported his pathway to graduation as an emerging media writer. Brad transferred from Rogue Community College as a junior, and has found community at SOU in profound ways.   

Academic Path and Preparation for the Future  

Brad began his academic journey as a Psychology major at Rogue Community College before transferring to SOU, where he shifted his focus to Communication and refined his writing skills. Over the past two years, he has built a strong foundation through coursework in conflict management, mediation, persuasion, negotiation, interviewing, and a range of communication strategies. Courses such as Global and Social Change Communication, Communication Across Cultures, and Storytelling Foundations have been especially impactful, equipping him to connect with diverse audiences.  

To that end, he has developed strong mentoring relationships with faculty members, including Erica Knotts. He is currently taking classes with Alena Ruggerio and Precious Yamaguchi. As he prepares to graduate with honors this June, Brad feels confident that his academic experience has prepared him well for the job market—helping him bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice. 

The Impact of the Olsrud Scholarship  

As he approached his final terms, Brad found himself running low on financial aid, creating uncertainty about how he would cover the remaining cost of his education. Accordingly, the Olsrud Scholarship arrived at a critical moment, providing the essential funding he needed to stay enrolled and complete his degree. Without that support, finishing his academic journey would have required significant out-of-pocket expenses—an obstacle the scholarship helped him overcome. 

About the scholarship, Brad says,

“Without the scholarship, covering my remaining tuition would have been impossible. I was able to make it to graduation with this support. It gave me the chance to focus on finishing strong rather than worrying about how to afford my final terms.” 

Finding Community and Belonging at SOU  

He joined the TRIO program at SOU in the fall of 2023 and quickly found a strong sense of community and support. Through TRIO, he built lasting friendships and meaningful relationships with staff, including the director, advisor, and office specialist. The program became a cornerstone of his college experience that deeply shaped his time at SOU. Brad says, 

“Being part of this program has been incredibly meaningful for me—I’ve felt a sense of belonging from the start. Most of my closest friends are from TRIO, and I’ve built strong connections. It’s truly felt like a community.”  

The Importance of Connection  

In addition to his involvement with the TRIO program, he participated in student groups such as the Latin Student Union and Black Student Union, attending meetings and cultural luncheons that broadened his campus connections. Consequently, he has also served as a dedicated note-taker for a friend with a disability through SOU’s Disability Resources office, working closely with Aubrey Owens to support his peer’s academic success. He has faithfully attended classes alongside his friend, providing detailed notes each week. His commitment to this role reflects his deep sense of responsibility and care, especially as his friend continues to recover from a recent injury and remains on track to graduate. 

Reflections and Future Outlook  

As Brad reflects on his time at SOU, he says what he will miss most are the people—the professors, TRIO staff, and fellow students who made his experience so meaningful. The close relationships he developed with his professors stood out in particular; he speaks of their genuine care for students and how that support deeply shaped his academic journey and personal growth. 

Brad is currently exploring career opportunities with freelance media writing emerging as a promising path, offering flexibility and creative potential. Outside of his professional interests, Brad enjoys staying active at the gym, listening to music, writing in his free time, and spending quality time with friends and family—activities that keep him grounded and inspired. 

Ready for the Next Chapter  

As Brad anticipates graduation and his future career in communication, he reflects,

“I think I’ll mostly miss the people here, and the sense of belonging…and the relationships I have with my teachers—and how much they truly care about students.” 

About the Olsrud Scholarship:  

Established in 1999 by Sherm and Wanda Olsrud, the Olsrud Scholarship was created to support students with financial need in pursuing their higher education goals. The primary criterion for selection is demonstrated financial need, followed by a student’s involvement in their community and academic achievement.  

About the Olsrud Family:  

The Olsrud family, prominent figures in the Rogue Valley, have left an incredibly important mark through their entrepreneurial endeavors and philanthropic contributions. Originating from their ownership of Food 4 Less and Sherm’s, they have played a pivotal role in the local economy and community. Their generosity extends to SOU, where their support has significantly bolstered initiatives and facilities, embodying their commitment to education and community advancement in the region. 

View the ways to give to SOU Scholarships here.