Graduating Student Credits College of Business for Going Beyond Business As Usual

Business students who have visited the Office of Undergraduate Student Development over the past few years are familiar with Lisa Knapke, or at least are familiar with her face.  She has worked at the front reception desk of the undergrad office in between the purchasing co-ops she has had. Knapke just graduated in December with two specializations – accounting and supply chain.  Because of her co-ops during her college career, she was offered a position at Emerson Climate Technologies before graduation.

Knapke has high praise for her experience at BGSU, and especially in the College of Business, for giving her unique and valuable opportunities.

Written by Lisa Knapke

We all hear that college is the best years of your life. It’s a way to make a name for yourself, to prepare for the real world.  BGSU and the College of Business have done just that. The opportunities were endless for me as a student.  They have made me successful academically and in having a great job waiting for me after graduation.  As a student clerk in the Undergrad office, I have been able to work with students and faculty on a daily basis and learn skills that have helped me in my future co-ops.  This job and the various scholarships offered by the college have also helped with finances throughout college.   Without them, I would not have been able to continue my education at BGSU.  

Early on, we were pushed by the College to get involved by joining groups on campus and attending the job fair.  I was able to get involved on campus as a member of the Falcon Marching Band and become a brother in Kappa Kappa Psi. These two experiences have allowed me to further enjoy my love for music at BG and meet some of the most inspiring individuals and leaders that I now call my friends. 

As a sophomore, I attended the Supply Chain Institute’s dinner meeting and job fair for the first time and I have never regretted it.  It was the first time I talked to a representative of my future employer and it led me to feel comfortable talking to employers.  ​I attended every one after that which steered me to my first co-op experience.  

Over my four and one-half years at BG, I have had three purchasing co-op terms.  My first was with Triumph Thermal Systems in Forest, Ohio as a junior.  My last two were consecutive terms with Emerson Climate Technologies in Sidney, Ohio.  Throughout these co-op experiences, I was part of the team from the start. I did everything from attending weekly meetings with executives, working with and building personal relationships with suppliers, being involved with and leading various projects with some having a spend of close to $1 million, and creating charts used in executive reviews.  If I could offer advice from my experience, it would be to ask questions and go after what you want, no matter how far off it may seem.  Any one of you can make a difference if you strive for greatness. 

Overall, BGSU and the College of Business is the reason my college years have truly been the best years of my life. I am proud to forever be a Falcon.