Megan Hause is carving her own path
KALAMAZOO, Mich.—For Western Michigan University senior Megan Hause, the best path to take is the one you make yourself. Originally from Chelsea, Michigan, the marketing and leadership and business strategy student at the Haworth College of Business is becoming a leading powerhouse among her peers.
Having led the creation of the leadership and business strategy (LBS) registered student organization (RSO), Hause knows a thing or two about teamwork and collaboration.
“When I became president of the LBS RSO, there was no roadmap. There wasn't even an executive board—just me and three other LBS students who had titles for banking purposes. Our faculty advisor, Dr. Doug Lepisto, always said ‘we are flying the airplane as we build it,’ which couldn’t be truer. The process of strategizing, planning and learning skyrocketed my confidence, both personally and professionally. My team and my mentors never gave up on me and never let me give up on myself.”
Similar to her work in the student organization, Hause played a key role in Bronconess Wine, WMU’s official student-run wine brand.
“I was chosen to be the chief marketing officer last spring. The brand gives 100% of profits to LBS students in the form of scholarships, so it was an honor to be a part of the Bronconess team. I did more than marketing on the team—I learned how to sell and strategize opportunities to reach our quotas and improve business operations. We successfully launched Bronconess into Trader Joe’s and the Kalamazoo Costco, which I’m proud to say I was a part of.”
Not only did Hause find professional success at Bronconess, but she was recognized for her hard work. She was a recipient of the Spring 2024 Bronconess scholarship, a testament to her leadership and dedication.
“To apply for the Bronconess scholarship, applicants must be an LBS student and submit a video explaining a time when they demonstrated Bronconess, which means having courage and enthusiasm in a challenging situation. Being awarded the scholarship is truly an honor and a motivation to uphold the definition of Bronconess throughout my career.”
As an involved student, Hause leaves this advice to future business students.
“In college, you get out of it what you put into it. No one is telling you what to do, so it's your choice to get up, go to class and stay on top of your work. It’s your choice to interact with your peers in class and make connections with the WMU community and faculty—the people you surround yourself with have a huge impact on you as a person. You're only here for a few years so make the most out of your time.”
With plans to graduate this spring, and a full-time job offer from Zhang Financial as a client relations associate, Hause is looking forward to the road ahead.
“I feel confident that I can carve my own path with my career and be able to achieve my goals. I love all aspects of marketing—I am full of ideas and creativity, and with marketing, I can use this personal attribute in a professional way.”
Learn more about marketing at WMU.
Learn more about WMU leadership and business strategy.
For more WMU news, arts and events, visit WMU News online.