During her first year at Gustavus, now Senior Courtney Harbeck jumped head first into studying to become a dentist. Today, as she finishes her last semester of the Business Management major, she reflects that her proudest moment in college was having the courage to switch majors.

“I had been set on being a dentist for so long that allowing myself to admit I could follow a different path was scary. I had to learn to take a step back and trust that everything would be okay,” Courtney said.

At the time, she wouldn’t have guessed that by her senior year in college she’d already have a job lined up with Boom Lab as a Consultant Coordinator.

“Her ability to be open to changing her academic path is a model for what we hope all Gustavus students will do: learn, expand their horizons, be creative, be helpful to others, and know that each of those activities can continue to develop throughout life, not just while at school,” Associate Professor in Library Dan Mollner said.

In addition to her major and Biology minor, Courtney has participated in various organizations on campus. She’s been a Gustie Greeter, a member of the Lacrosse team, Volleyball team, Gustavus Mentoring Program, Student Senate, Pound Pals, Guild of St. Lucia, and the Theta Xi Gamma Sorority.

“I bet almost everyone who reads this article will either know Courtney or know of her because she has created such a positive reputation for herself,” Senior, and fellow Theta, Jessie Self said.

Out of all of her activities, Courtney says that being a Gustie Greeter has had the most positive impact on her.

“It’s an amazing experience to be able to help first years and continue a connection with them throughout their four years of college. I love watching them find themselves and their identity,” Courtney said.

Those who know her say that she’s a great role model.

“She does an amazing job welcoming first year students to campus and serving as a mentor. Through her commitments and relationships, you can tell Courtney is dedicated to giving back to Gustavus,” Senior Alexa Peterson said.

Along with her dedication to giving back to Gustavus, Courtney also maintains a loyalty to her friends.

“Her personality is compassionate, caring, and when she asks ‘how are you?’ she really wants to hear your response. She’s also one of the most positive people I have ever met,” Senior Paget Pengelly said.

During her last semester, Courtney hopes to keep up with schoolwork but also continue to build upon her relationships. While she’s excited for the future, she says she will always miss Gustavus and the experiences she’s had.

“The sky is the limit for Courtney. She is self-aware, service oriented, and hard working. Those characteristics will take her far in whatever endeavor she wants to pursue,” Board of Trustees Endowed Chair in Management and Leadership Kathi Tunheim said.