ECU student, Noble resident Daniel Christensen named Business Scholar

Ada, OK (05/03/2024) — Daniel Christensen enjoys being a source of encouragement on campus at East Central University.

Through ECU's Greek Life and Campus Involvement Office, the ECU business administration student and Noble resident's desire has been to help students find their place.

"I have had many opportunities to help people find a sense of belonging somewhere," said Christensen. "Many people, like myself, come in to college after doing many wonderful things in high school, but have trouble finding somewhere to fit in on campus. Student organizations give students a chance to get involved and get the most out of their college experience."

According to Christensen, many students come to the Office of Campus Involvement seeking to find ways to participate in activities. For instance, he steered two female students into joining sororities.

"I knew that joining a sorority is not for every girl on campus, but I explained the benefits of being a part of something bigger than yourself while taking on a leadership role and how it can bring out a part of you that you never knew you had," Christensen said.

Christensen's ability to show leadership skills have led to Noble, Oklahoma resident being a named a Business Scholar at ECU for 2018-19.

The Business Scholars Program is designed for students not only for their academic achievements but also their ability to show leadership skills in a manner of being an extension of the university's faculty through the Harland C. Stonecipher School of Business.

Students must have at least a 3.50 grade-point average before entering the program and must maintain at least a 3.25 each semester to remain in the program. They must also be active in the Business Leaders Association by attending meetings and holding positions of responsibility.

Besides being on campus for two or more years, the business scholars must be able to volunteer for special projects in the School of Business, participate in the Dean's Leadership Council, be willing to travel during assigned trips and, once they graduate, give back to the program after graduation as Alumni of Business Scholars.

Through Christensen's coursework at ECU, he has gained some unique skills such as recognizing non-verbal ques from people that were speaking. Christensen admitted to having problems making eye contact or reading facial expressions.

"Understanding that facial movements and body language says just as much if not more than the words a person is actually saying," said Christensen. "I think this skill is very important in management, especially HR (human resources) management when it comes to understanding your employees."

-ECU-

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