GHS Students Visit Successful Business & WSC

Glasgow & Culbertson JMG/YE students teamed up on May 12 to experience the larger "classroom of life."

After both schools competed in The Prospects contest, sponsored by the Montana Chamber of Commerce, they were off to see a successful business and meet the founders.

As the bus turned onto a gravel road, students were surprised the successful business we were going to see was down a dirt road. As we pulled into the driveway, the beautiful large barn caught our eyes along with our welcoming committee, Dustin and Susan Harmon, and the family dog.

Upon entering the home of Wild Calf Coffee, advisors Jill Page & Mary Machart knew this was YE in the works. Susan shared her expertise in the development of the business before Dustin shared his passion for Entrepreneurship.

Advisors were pleased to hear Dustin reinforce many of the ideas taught in YE class as well as explain how they both have degrees, yet are still taking college courses to empower themselves to continue building their business.

They kindly saved their morning roasting process for the students to see firsthand. From the large burlap bags that held the beans (which all experienced that they had NO scent) to pouring them into the roaster, hearing them open and then placed into the machine to be processed to sell.

Topping it off was the opportunity to taste the final product, and adding their own flavors into it as well.

I believe as the bus headed down that dirt road, students held a new perspective about what it takes to start a small business and the benefits of still living in the middle of "home."

The second leg of the journey took them to Williston State College in Williston, ND. The group was greeted by a local alumnus from Medicine Lake. Now employed at WSC, she graciously introduced two student leaders who each took a group of students to tour the facilities, giving High School students and opportunity to see what a college classroom, lab, and more looks like.

From the gym (known as the Well), to the dorms, bookstore, financial offices to their huge recreation facility the ARC, students enjoyed learning the benefits of a Junior College close to home. Two of the Glasgow students on the trip will be attending WSC this fall.

Jill Page & Mary Machart

Glasgow High School