Hannah DeLong, a sophomore double majoring in natural resources and wildlife management at the University of Minnesota Crookston, grew up in southwest Minnesota near Sacred Heart. She says she was raised in a supportive family environment with her parents and two younger sisters, both of whom are currently in high school.
DeLong will graduate in 2026 and found very strong connections in the “small town community” at the U of M Crookston. She was also a member of the 2024 Golden Eagle tennis team.
“I really appreciate that the U of M Crookston has many opportunities to learn hands-on,” said DeLong. “I learn better that way.”
These experiences and opportunities have helped fuel her passion for her field, and they enhance her understanding and appreciation of natural resources.
DeLong jokes that she enjoys the computer side of her major the least.
“It is definitely not an area of strength for me, but I am working to expand my knowledge and ability in that field,” she explained.
DeLong attributes her strong desire to work in the natural resource field to her aunt, who works with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. She has had many conversations with her aunt about her career and she has been a huge influence on the direction of her own career path. Looking ahead, DeLong envisions her career in wildlife management as a potential lifelong pursuit with various stepping stones along the way.
Beyond her academic pursuits, DeLong enjoys indulging in creative hobbies such as playing the piano, drawing, and painting. She actively participates in church activities, including Bible studies and the “CRU” Club on campus, which she says are integral to her personal and spiritual growth.
DeLong emphasizes the significance of her faith in shaping her identity and goals.
“My greatest success in life is accepting Jesus, because all other successes in my life would have only been a result of that,” she mentioned.
DeLong believes her spiritual foundation has not only provided her with a sense of purpose, but also influenced her understanding of evangelism.
“Sharing the good news of Jesus Christ with love and respect for others is important to me,” DeLong added. “There are times where people go to evangelize, but don’t do so with love and respect for others (our neighbors). (I believe) we, as Christians, are called to proclaim the good news with love for others as Jesus tells us to do and sets an example for us to do.”
DeLong embraces her journey with a positive outlook and a deep desire to learn from others, reflecting on her life’s experiences and lessons with humility and hope.
