Always a Yote: Kyle Schoenfelder
From gaining new perspectives while studying abroad in the Netherlands to developing skills through his business courses, Schoenfelder’s USD experience set him up for success in whatever would come next.
“The Beacom School of Business challenged me in ways I didn’t always expect,” Schoenfelder said. “It was rigorous, and the coursework demanded discipline, critical thinking and a strong work ethic. I appreciate how intentional the school was about developing practical, real-world skills.”
Schoenfelder, began working at USD full-time after graduation, but his education didn’t end there; he went on to earn his M.A. in educational administration while advancing in his career at the university.
Today, as an academic advisor in the USD Beacom School of Business, Schoenfelder has what he calls “the best job in the world.”
“I get to go to college every day, but I never have to go to class!” In his role, Schoenfelder advises over 300 undergraduate business students.
He also teaches a First Year Experience course, supervises the peer advising program, organizes and plans events, and manages the business school’s Global Immersion faculty-led program—bringing students to Denmark, Sweden, Estonia, Finland, Spain, Portugal, South Korea and Japan to date.
While his role has taken him around the globe, the most fulfilling moments in Schoenfelder’s career have emerged closer to home.
“There’s a lot to like about advising at USD, but the most rewarding parts occur on an everyday basis. One of the biggest is seeing growth over time,” Schoenfelder said. “You meet students when they’re unsure, sometimes overwhelmed, and not always confident in their direction. Then a semester or two later, something clicks. They’re making decisions with purpose, speaking more confidently, and taking ownership of their path. Being even a small part of that shift is pretty meaningful.”
Schoenfelder has helped shape hundreds of students’ paths, and at the same time, he credits USD with helping shape his.
“USD has opened doors I didn’t know existed and pushed me to grow in ways I wouldn’t have on my own, but most importantly, USD has surrounded me with the most amazing people,” said Schoenfelder. “I met my wife, Ashlin, here. I made my best friends at USD.
My first supervisor continues to be a mentor and close friend who I can go to for advice. All of these people continue to show up and be there for me, and it’s because they’re Coyotes. I have a lot of pride in working at USD. It’s an honor to work at a place that shaped me.”
Favorite USD Tradition: “My favorite USD tradition is Dakota Days! My friends and I had so much fun attending the events during our collegiate career. Now my wife, Ashlin, and kids, Leo and Ruthie, and I have made it a tradition to attend the parade in the morning, go tailgating, and cheer for the Coyotes at the football game. It is a highlight of our lives every single year!”
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