Enjoying the Experience
Basketball may be what brought Colby Tichota to Midland University, but his overall experience has been what’s kept him here.
A junior accounting major from Yutan, Nebraska, Colby’s hoop dreams afforded him the opportunity to play basketball and go to school in a smaller environment close to home. As is often the case, the best-laid plans can go awry, as Colby found out when his basketball career lasted just two years. “I come from a small town where sports are very important, and I had some success in basketball in high school. If someone had told me I’d be done playing basketball in two years, I probably would not have believed them. I think I just got burned out.”
Walking away is never easy for an athlete at any level. While basketball was an important part of his life, Colby knew he needed to stay on course at Midland. “I didn’t want to go somewhere else and start over. I had made my friends, both on the basketball team and through accounting, and I knew I could make it work. There have been bumps in the road, but I’m glad I’ve stuck it out.”
Coming from a small high school (around 35 in his graduating class), Colby believes Midland’s tight-knit atmosphere helped with the transition. “It has a small campus feel, and you get to know your professors, and they get to know you. Meeting people and making friends has been easy. I guess the biggest adjustment has been learning how to manage my time.”
Along with all the responsibilities that come with being a student, Colby has also immersed himself in the Howard Hanson Honors Program at Midland. “It’s given me another group to fit in with, as well as looking good on a resume. I’ve really enjoyed being a part of it. It’s a lot of discussion-based classes that have given me some variety and helped me diversify myself.”
He’s already diversified his portfolio by completing several internships at accounting firms in the Omaha area. When he graduates in May of 2024, Colby is confident he will be prepared for what lies ahead. “Getting all of this hands-on experience has helped me realize what I want. It’s allowed me to compare and contrast and given me a leg up for when I do look for a job. I’ve had many different experiences, but they’ve all been good.”
His basketball playing days may be over, but Colby has found a way to keep himself involved with a game that has been a big part of his life. He served as a color commentator for a handful of Midland basketball games for KHUB radio last season and is hopeful of doing more games in the future. “It was something I always wanted to try, and it was a fun experience. I love being able to give my take on the game.”
He’s appreciative of the experiences he has had in his three years at Midland and looks forward to more. “I am enjoying my experience. I think I’ve been able to roll with the punches as opposed to always having a set plan. Midland allows its students to do different things and have those different experiences, which you don’t always get at a bigger school. All of those things have helped me get where I am today.”
Colby Tichota is a junior accounting major from Yutan, Nebraska. To share your story, or nominate a friend, email social@midlandu.edu or post using #FacesofMidland.
