Mattilyn Mergen will graduate from Northwest Missouri State University with a Bachelor of Science in agricultural media, the university announced on May 1. She plans to begin her career as a marketing assistant at BTC Bank after completing her studies.
Mergen said her decision to attend Northwest was influenced by connections with faculty and staff and the opportunity to combine her interests in agriculture and advertising. “Choosing Northwest was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Mergen said. “It’s where I found my love for agriculture and media, friendships and confidence to chase my career goals. I’ll always be thankful for the experiences at Northwest that prepared me for life after college.”
Growing up on a family farm in Green Ridge, Missouri, Mergen developed an early interest in agriculture through high school FFA activities. Her interest in advertising and marketing was inspired by her mother, who she described as one of her biggest role models. During campus tours, Mergen felt supported by faculty members at the university’s agricultural department. “The agricultural department at Northwest is truly one of a kind,” she said. “You’re surrounded by faculty and staff who know your name and understand your interests. You aren’t just a number to them, you’re a person, a future professional and someone they genuinely care about investing in.”
While attending Northwest Missouri State University—which enrolls over 8,500 students with a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio according to the official website—Mergen participated in several organizations including Sigma Alpha sorority, Delta Tau Alpha honor society, Block and Bridle club, Knacktive team project group, Agriculture Ambassadors program, as well as working as a student employee with Student Account Services according to the official website. The university promotes engagement through more than 150 clubs that enhance cultural and social experiences according to its official website.
During her time on campus—home to facilities such as Bearcat Arena as reported by the official website—Mergen served as public relations chair for Block and Bridle club where she gained experience designing materials for livestock shows and community service events.
Last summer at the Missouri State Fair she connected with Brownfield Ag News’ director which led first to an internship during fall semester then again during spring semester. “The agricultural department gave me both industry knowledge and hands-on experience that prepared me to speak confidently about agriculture in a professional setting,” Mergen said.
She credited coursework like Knacktive—a team-based experiential learning program—for providing practical skills relevant for marketing roles: “Instead of just talking about strategy…I’ve been able to actively participate…Knacktive has given me hands-on experience that makes me feel more confident.” The university aims for nationally recognized education combining practical experience with value according to its official website, features award-winning faculty and national rankings according to its site.
