When Grant Otten graduated high school, coming to Wayne State College wasn’t in his plans. The Columbus native was attending the University of Nebraska-Omaha to play football. After his second year of college, the school went through some major changes.
“After my redshirt freshman year, they cut the (football) program as they shifted into Division 1 and into a different conference,” Otten said. “I started looking at schools, and I had looked at Wayne originally coming out of high school. I went on a visit and really enjoyed Wayne.”
Otten said the relationship with players and coaches, as well as having family close to Wayne, made committing to the Wildcats the best decision.
There were big differences between going to college in a city like Omaha compared to a smaller place like Wayne, according to Otten. He said he enjoyed the small town feel and the ability to make closer friends.
“I had a great experience with the football team and in the broadcasting/mass communications section,” Otten said. “I really value the relationships I built when I was there, and it was just a really good experience.”
Otten also said he enjoyed his academics during his time at Wayne State.
“When I look back, the programs were designed pretty well,” Otten said. “I got really good experience in a variety of different areas. I think the challenge with college is you’re not sure how you’ll use your degree… I didn’t think I would go the route I did [Media Relations Specialist at Nebraska Public Power District], but I really enjoyed my career, and my education set me up really well.”
Otten said he worked a couple different jobs after graduating from WSC, including as a reporter for News Channel Nebraska, before his current role at NPPD.
“Experience at my other roles helped me get where I am now at NPPD,” Otten said. “I love what I do now. There’s a lot of different aspects of my job. Everything has kind of built upon itself in my career… my career path isn’t necessarily what I expected, but it’s been great.”
Otten said being a former reporter, he enjoys talking with the media in regard to the projects that NPPD is either working on or planning.
“Being on this side, I have an idea of what reporters are looking for,” Otten said. “I like to be able to help them cover their stories, and it’s a lot of fun.”
Otten also said college offered him some great experiences that he was glad he participated in.
“You want to make sure you dive in and take advantage of what the college offers,” Otten said. “The courses really provide a lot of value and you’re taking the time to go there and get these degrees. When reflecting on my time going through the bachelor’s program, it’s understanding the value of everything provided.”
Otten said coming out of college, sometimes getting experience, no matter where, is the best thing you can do.
“I didn’t think I wanted to be a news reporter out of college,” Otten said. “But I really enjoyed doing it and had a great experience. That job opened up the opportunities that I’ve had in my life. If I hadn’t gone down that road, who knows what I would have done. So I’ve always encouraged people to be open to different routes or opportunities that maybe aren’t necessarily what you want because it might open up to long-term benefits.”
