Jacob Fike ’21/’23: Finding His Path at SMSU

Jacob Fike didn’t take the traditional path to college. Originally from Braham, Minn., Fike is the youngest of two sons. Until college, he was homeschooled.

“My parents were very old-fashioned. I learned to type on a typewriter,” he explained.

Upon receiving a 12 on his ACT, Fike first went to AnokaRamsey Community College for two years and then transferred to SMSU to finish his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science.

“Going to college was something that I wanted to do. It’s been a fun experience!” he said. He just completed the final semester of his Physical Education master’s degree and worked as a Graduate Assistant for the Exercise Science Program.

As the graduate assistant, he was tasked with aiding professors in teaching and coordinating the Community Wellness Program. This twelve-week fitness program is run by undergraduate students. In spring, there were 25 clients both from the community and the SMSU staff and faculty. He also substituted in senior-level courses, helped in labs, and managed work-study students for their department.

“I have been accepted into Concordia St. Paul’s online Ph.D. in Kinesiology program. It is a four-year program with classes that are broken into eight-week increments,” he said. “I really want to stay in the Marshall area while I complete this, and hopefully end up teaching here one day. I love the hands-on experiences; it really has made my learning more meaningful.”

Fike hopes one day to either become a professor of Kinesiology and Exercise Science or become a Strength and Conditioning Coordinator at a university.

“I’ve always felt like an outside-the-box thinker, always wanting to move forward. I think I can really make a difference working with college students”

Despite a low ACT, he’s made the most of his experience at SMSU. The connections he’s made with his professors and the engaging work he’s done with the wellness program have taught him that he can do anything he sets his mind to. His passion for learning has allowed him to see his future more clearly.

“I have always been passionate about school and am excited to continue my education,” said Fike. “I am excited for my future and what I’ll be able to accomplish.”

Elizabeth Lockwood SMSU Alumni and Visitor Center

The Elizabeth Lockwood SMSU Alumni and Visitor Center located at 1430 East College Drive, Marshall, Minn. is staffed by Ambassadors Monday to Friday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Current ambassadors include:

Lois Henkel ’72

Ricke Bly ’73

Karl Porisch ’03

Stop by and visit anytime!

Shirley Porisch

Kathy Paxton ’69

Kevin Anundson ’82

Jerry Bly ’71

Sandy Hoffbeck ’74

Karen Sweetland

Ann John ’77

Linda Nelson ’92

Diane Taylor ’75

When women find their strength, leverage the strength of others, build networks, and grow communities, the world is a better place. This Women’s Leadership Conference will bring together women in all stages of their leadership journey for a day that will energize and inspire!