Susan Morgan: The first to say yes
Growing into leadership, one step at a time
Susan Morgan names her first‑generation identity plainly and proudly: “I am a first‑generation college student.” She arrived at Oregon State University carrying the hopes and uncertainties familiar to many first‑gen students, not so much the roadmap, but determination to figure it out.
Navigating college on her own meant learning to trust her instincts, seek out community and build confidence through action.
The marketing major with a graphic design minor took the chance to experiment and make the most of every opportunity that crossed her path. This determination would shape her into an impactful student leader.
Leadership wasn’t something Morgan initially saw in herself. “I have always been nervous to be in a leadership position, but coming to OSU has given me that experience and opportunities to grow,” she said.
Faculty describe her for the Class of 2026 profile as “an outstanding leader who took over the president's role for Marketing Club at a time when we really needed a strong leader that could bring students together. And Susan has done that.”
Morgan was asked to lead – and said yes – when the club was in need of someone who could bring students together, energize participation and create a sense of belonging – as a president should.
But there was a process: Morgan took the opportunities as they came, even when she was unsure. Starting in her first year, she was president of her microbusiness, one of the first opportunities for leadership at the College of Business. She stepped up.
Next, she was a leader for the Business Beavs in Action summer camp, an experience for high-schoolers to explore OSU and the College of Business, where, with her experience as a first-gen student, Morgan could mentor students who had similar uncertainties about attending college.
Morgan didn’t limit herself. She explored every corner of OSU’s community, building a portfolio of experiences as diverse as her interests: as a DJ at KBVR FM, a premium services management intern for OSU Athletics and a Center for Marketing and Consumer Insights events worker for the Oregon State Fashion Show.
Each role took her in a different direction. Each one taught her something new about communication, creativity, teamwork and resilience. And each one reinforced her truth: growth happens when you say yes.
For all her accomplishments, Morgan is quick to credit the people around her. The Marketing Club community, in particular, became her anchor, and a reminder that leadership is for others, not just the self. She found mentors who believed in her, peers who encouraged her and friends who celebrated every milestone.
Morgan describes the impact of her learning and experience: “Experimenting outside of class is just as important as what you learn in class,” she said. “Exploring hobbies and extracurriculars at OSU helped me navigate a new chapter of my life and helped me stand out.”
What’s next? “Unsure,” says Morgan, but we’re sure she will have confidence and courage to say yes and lead. As a first‑generation student, she has rewritten what’s possible – for herself and everyone who will follow her path.
Related Blogs
