The Presidential Scholarship Makes an Impact

Tyler Keller is a junior at Minnesota State University, Mankato majoring in Math Education.  He was a Freshman Representative for the Student Council and a Community Advisor in McElroy Residence Hall his sophomore year. He's also active in intramural sports, a member of the Honors Program, and a Presidential Scholar.

Tyler grew up in Medford, Minn., with two older brothers and a younger sister. He was active in high school, participating in three sports (football, wrestling and baseball), student council and the National Honor Society. Ever since 10th grade Tyler knew that he wanted to go into Math Education. Working his summers as a lifeguard provided him with plenty of experience working with children, and he has always had a strong interest in mathematics. As Tyler began to explore higher education options he decided to visit Minnesota State Mankato.

During his visit, Tyler enjoyed how close everything was and how it was compact in size but still had a big feel and many activities going on. He also enjoyed the fact that it was far enough from home but yet close enough as well, so that he could still visit when he wanted. He decided to apply for the Presidential Scholarship through Minnesota State Mankato. After receiving confirmation that he had received the Presidential Scholarship on his birthday, Tyler knew that attending Minnesota State Mankato was meant for him.

Receiving the Presidential Scholarship has afforded Tyler many opportunities. He has been matched with a new professional mentor each year and has been able to gain impactful relationships from each of them. Tyler says that these mentors have been the most valuable advantage in receiving the Presidential Scholarship, aside from the financial benefits that come along with a scholarship. The scholarship has afforded him other educational opportunities as well. Tyler has been working with the Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) Program this school year at Mankato West High School, where he helps facilitate conversations with groups of five students with their questions about homework. This has been a valuable educational experience for Tyler because it allows him to get practical experience in preparing to become a teacher.

The Presidential Scholarship continues to impact Tyler's life by allowing him the financial freedom to take volunteer opportunities when they are presented. Along with becoming a high school math teacher, Tyler hopes to become a coach. This winter he will have the opportunity to assist the Mankato Area Youth Wrestling Club to gain valuable experience for his future.

Tyler is very thankful he received the Presidential Scholarship and that he has been afforded great opportunities to succeed through connecting with mentors to provide guidance, decreased financial responsibilities, volunteering with local organizations and sharing commonalities with other Presidential Scholars as he continues his education here at Minnesota State Mankato.

Big ideas and real-world thinking on campus and in the community.