Student Profiles

Nathalie Hildingsson

As many already know, our students here at Embry-Riddle have a unique variety of backgrounds that make this university diverse and interesting to all who attend. Nathalie Hildingsson definitely fits that bill.

Hildingsson, a sophomore in business, made the long trip from Sweden to join the Embry-Riddle family as a student-athlete on the track and field team.

In high school, Hildingsson picked a four year program rather than the usual three years of education so she could compete in track.

“It was geared for sports,” she said.

She took courses in psychology, nutrition, and ergonomics. She also had two hours set aside each day for athletic workouts.

After high school, Hildingsson opened a personal business as a massage therapist.

“That’s where I got my interest in business. I knew I wanted to learn the ins and outs of controlling my own company. I didn't expect to do aviation business,” she said, “but after two weeks I was inspired by the impressions from other students.”

Before turning to Embry-Riddle, Hildingsson searched for schools that had track-and-field teams and needed someone to compete in the 400-meter sprints, her favorite event.

“I wanted a school in Florida or California, and the school had to have track and business,” Hildingsson said. Originally, Hildingsson’s plan was not to stay at Embry-Riddle for the entire duration of her degree, but the atmosphere got her hooked. “I told myself, ‘Hey, I want to stay for a year, learn some English, do track, get some business background.’ Then, you meet everyone at school and how enthusiastic they are. It changes everything.” Hildingsson wants to work “on the soft side of business.”

“I love social politics and ethics,” she said. “I want to manage something that deals with a lot of people, like a human resources manager or something. I want to be able to talk to people and really motivate them. I feel like there is more to business than just finance and marketing. Ethics and communication: I think that’s my side.” She has suggestions to other students for increasing their marketability.

“Watch the speakers that come to campus,” she said. “Learn to love things that don’t have anything to do with your major, too. It will give you a much more diverse background.”

Hildingsson also recommends that students pace themselves as they enter the university. This is excellent advice because many students often overbook themselves during their first semester.

“You have to find something to make yourself visible, but don’t get involved too quickly,” said Hildingsson. “Wait until you see an activity that really interests you, then add it to your schedule. Also, learn to develop good relationships with your professors. There really aren’t many other places where you have the chance to do that like you can here.”

We will follow Hildingsson’s career at Embry-Riddle, and provide updates on her progress and the projects she becomes involved with.