Originally from Missoula, Brennan first heard about Montana Western through a childhood friend. After visiting campus for a weekend, he quickly felt at home. He appreciated the way the block schedule allowed him to focus deeply on one subject at a time.
Brennan began his college journey as a business major but soon realized he wanted to focus more on developing his communication and writing skills. Switching to English gave him the opportunity to build those strengths—skills he says have been incredibly useful in his professional life.
“Being able to speak clearly and get your point across is so important,” Brennan explained. “It’s a skill very few have. If you can communicate well, you can carve out a place for yourself in the world.”
As the first student to complete an internship through the English program, Brennan helped lay the groundwork for future students to explore internships in the field. He encourages English majors to see the degree as a foundation for many different career paths. The ability to write, communicate, and share ideas effectively can be applied in countless ways.
During his time at UMW, Brennan also served as the production manager for the campus radio station, gaining both technical and on-air experience. That hands-on involvement helped him build a diverse skill set that he continues to draw from today.
He says the opportunities that came his way after graduation were less about specific job training and more about his ability to communicate, manage his time, and present himself professionally. He encourages students to be proactive about building a portfolio or a platform that showcases their work and helps employers see what they’re capable of.
“Search, look, don’t be afraid to take opportunities or even jobs with an expiration date,” Brennan said. “Even if it’s small, stick your head through the door to see what can be a possibility.”
Brennan also spoke about his experience running marketing and social media for Beaverhead Brewing Company, a role he hadn’t initially envisioned but came to love. He used that experience to expand his network and grow his career. He believes that stepping into new or even uncomfortable situations is key to discovering where your skills can shine.
For students unsure of their next steps after graduation, Brennan encourages them to take their time and explore what feels like the right fit.
