Blake Arneson transferred into Saint Mary’s two years ago with 54 credits and a few years of playing in USA Junior Hockey under his belt.
He toured Saint Mary’s over Christmas break. After visiting other schools in larger cities, he took one look at the bluffs through the classroom windows and said, “This is where I wanted to be. That’s what sold it for me.”
Additionally he was placed with other transfer students during orientation day, and he said that felt like he fit right in.
He described how faculty worked closely with him on which courses he had taken and how they fit with the university’s curriculum. Faculty also helped him determine which courses would be best, based on his interests and chosen career path.
Arneson, who is majoring in business management and minoring in healthcare management, hopes to work with a city or county program in service work. He’s currently volunteering at the Winona Impact Center, where he works with area youth in an after-school program.
He also is able to continue playing hockey, only now he’s playing for the Cardinal men’s team. “I’ve never had a team that close that gets along that well,” he said. “Everyone has each other’s backs. It’s not just about hockey. We’re more focused on schooling which is a great aspect. I wanted to get a high quality education.
“I would recommend Saint Mary’s,” he said. “Everybody is so involved. Here you can be the best person you can be and be a valued member of this community.”
