10/03/2026
✨ Alumni Spotlight ✨
Following the Music: How NDSCS Alum Tracy Styf Found Her Way Back to a Lifelong Dream
Sometimes the dreams we discover in college don't follow a straight path. For NDSCS alum Tracy Styf, the passion she nurtured as a Wildcat never disappeared—it simply waited for the right time to take center stage.
Growing up in Wahpeton, attending NDSCS felt like the perfect place to begin her college journey. After taking college courses during high school, she enrolled in the Liberal Arts program with an emphasis in music, eager to continue learning while doing what she loved most. "I was excited to become part of the Wildcat Singers," Tracy recalls. "Music was always my passion."
That passion shaped her experience at NDSCS. Whether singing with the Wildcat Singers, performing in choir, joining the band to strengthen her rhythm, participating in drama, or singing the National Anthem at athletic events, Tracy embraced every opportunity to perform. Those experiences—and the classmates and instructors who encouraged her along the way—remain some of her favorite college memories.
Although music was always close to her heart, life eventually led Tracy in another direction. She built a successful career spanning nearly 30 years in hospitality, specializing in marketing and communications. Along the way, she continued investing in her education, earning her bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of North Dakota in 2023.
Then something unexpected happened.
About 18 months ago, Tracy began writing and recording original music, rediscovering the creative passion that first flourished during her time at NDSCS. In 2026, she released her debut single, "Our Love Song," with a second original song, "My Guide," following soon after. She is now working toward releasing her first full-length album.
Her music blends alt-country, rock, and faith-centered storytelling, sharing messages of resilience, hope, and grace through songs inspired by life's joys, challenges, and new beginnings.
Looking back, Tracy sees a clear connection between where her journey began and where it has led. "It's amazing to see how the passion that began at NDSCS has become part of my life again." She credits NDSCS with providing more than just an academic foundation. Living in the residence halls, building lifelong friendships, and pursuing her passion in a supportive environment gave her confidence that continues to influence her today.
Her advice for today's Wildcats? "Live in the dorms for at least one year. The friendships, experiences, and memories you make are just as valuable as what you learn in the classroom."
As Tracy continues writing, recording, and sharing her music, she's proving that it's never too late to follow a dream. The passion she discovered as an NDSCS student has come full circle, reminding us that the seeds planted during our college years can continue to grow for a lifetime.
Congratulations, Tracy, on your debut release. The Wildcat family is cheering you on as your next chapter unfolds.
