It all started in 2004, the year I started college. You see, when you attend the University of Mary in Bismarck, it's common to be able to name every single person you will see walking across campus at any given point of time. ("It's Tuesday at 10:35am? I can't wait to see Laura today!")
Shortly after freshman orientation, I met an energetic, funny, outgoing girl named Melissa. She was involved in residence life (as well as about 1,045 other things, including a term as student body president and a congressional internship with Sen. Byron Dorgan). I distinctly remember sitting side-by-side in the computer lab as we worked for hours on various papers for classes, having the most random and entertaining conversations.
Melissa graduated from the University of Mary with a Business Administration degree in 2007 and for the past 6½ years has worked for InfoTech, a software and systems company.
Her husband Johan (which may be pronounced "John") works for Ideal Aerosmith. The Korsliens moved from Minot about a year ago.
"I was born in Fargo, grew up in Minot, and attended college in Bismarck, so I figured it was time to give Grand Forks a try!" Melissa said.
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Their adorable daughter Zoey turned 2 this week, and they also have an entertaining miniature schnauzer named Gretchen thrown in the mix.
She said that she has been especially impressed by the friendliness of her neighborhood, which even holds an annual block party. The Korsliens enjoy spending time at the many parks throughout the city, as well as the Greenway. They appreciate the "family friendly" atmosphere created with activities and services, including the recycling program. "If there was ever a nerd about plastic bottles, it's me," Melissa said.
Melissa has been actively involved with the Minot Young Professionals, served as chairwoman of the North Dakota Young Professionals, and is now an active member of the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals.
"I've been involved with young professional organizations locally and at the state level since I graduated from the University of Mary," she said. "Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals has helped me connect to the community, network with business professionals and meet new friends."
Melissa loves all things North Dakota, and she really loves it here, and so does her extended family.
"Our family loves to come here for weekend getaways. They love to stock up with goodies from L&M Meats, Dakota Harvest Bakery, Widman's, Amazing Grains and Happy Harry's," she said.
Dimmler is executive director of Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals. Reach her at Stacey@ggfyp.com or at (218) 779-9369. Go to the group's website at GGFYP.com.
