Student Spotlight: Taylor Hansen Leads with Heart at Southeast Technical College

As published in pigeon605.com

Driven by compassion and curiosity, Taylor Hansen from Lead, S.D., came to Southeast Technical College to pursue her passion for Cardiovascular Sonography. A former student leader and athlete, she now channels that same energy into her role on the Student Engagement Board, helping create a welcoming and connected campus community. With family ties in Sioux Falls and a heart for helping others, she embodies the spirit of care, connection and excellence that defines Southeast Tech.

Q: Tell us a bit about yourself!

A: My hometown is Lead, S.D, almost six hours away! Lead and Deadwood are mostly tourist towns so most students either work in restaurants or in the tourism industry. I chose the latter! For two seasons I worked at The Broken Boot Gold Mine, giving tours of a genuine gold mine from the Black Hills Gold Rush.

I participated in my high school's volleyball, basketball, powerlifting and track and field. I was president of the Key Club, Student Council and National Honor Society and sang in the choir.

My hobbies include reading, listening to music, doing my own acrylic nails, painting and hanging out with my family and friends! My family includes my mom and my dad, my younger brother, who is a junior in high school, my Boston Terrier, Bowser, and my black cat, Zelda, who I miss so much!

Q: What drew you to STC for your education?

A: STC gained my attention mainly because it was the only school in the state with the program I wanted—Cardiovascular Sonography. Both my grandparents live in Sioux Falls, and I have other family members in Minnesota, so I get plenty of free meals and family visits!

Q: How did you choose to pursue Cardiovascular Sonography?

A: I chose to pursue cardiovascular sonography after one of my friends introduced me to radiology. I was immediately interested and began exploring similar careers and read about sonography and its specialties. The heart is a topic I had a lot of interest in, so I was drawn to cardiovascular sonography right away.

Right before I had made my decision, one of my grandpas had a routine checkup where he mentioned shortness of breath and fatigue. He ended up getting an ultrasound on his heart, and we found out he had two clogged valves—one at 100% and one 80%! He was deemed "a dead man walking" and had open heart surgery almost immediately after. After that, I decided I wanted to be able to help people and be closer to my grandparents.

Q: What are your goals after graduation?

A: After graduation, I’d like to get a job—hopefully near Sioux Falls or somewhere back out in the Black Hills.

Q: What is something you’ve accomplished at STC so far that you’re especially proud of?

A: I have maintained all A's in all my classes!

Q: What is your favorite activity or club on campus?

A: My favorite club I participate in is the Student Engagement Board! I also enjoy refereeing intramural volleyball games.

Q: How did you get involved with the Student Engagement Board?

A: I got involved with the Student Engagement Board after reading about its first meeting in the weekly activity email. I wanted to meet new people and get out of my comfort zone!

Q: What do you think is the most important role of the Student Engagement Board in student life?

A: The Student Engagement board provides students resources to help find and fulfill an enjoyable college experience and get them involved in the community.

Q: What is the biggest challenge the Student Engagement Board has had so far?

A: I would say that the hardest challenge we have faced so far is getting into a groove! Since we are technically a new club this year, we are trying to find our footing and be successful as a group.

Q: What’s an event you would like to see at STC?

A: I would like to see an event that brings students of all ages and backgrounds together.

Q: What are some of your favorite places to hang out in Sioux Falls?

A: My favorite places so far are Josiah's and Oshima Sushi! I can't wait to discover more new places!