​I’m Mariah Anderson the newest employee of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce. I grew up near Starbuck and graduated from Minnewaska Area High school, so I’m very familiar with the Alexandria area and community. My initial career plan was to attend Lake Superior Community College in Duluth to complete a degree in accounting to become a financial advisor. I quickly realized that was not the career path I wanted, so I completely switched directions and transferred to Alexandria Technical and Community College. I graduated in May of 2021 with a degree in exercise science. After graduation, I went to work for Lifetime Fitness in Lakeville where I discovered that my passion for exercise was more of a hobby than a career. While working in that field, I started learning about different investment opportunities and decided I wanted to get into rental properties. This sparked the idea that led me to becoming a licensed real estate agent. I moved back to the area late fall to grow my business in real estate and was then presented with the opportunity to work for the chamber.

Growing up I was involved in many different activities. I participated in 4-H for more than ten years, winning State Fair trips each year with my show heifers, steers, occasionally my horse, and other projects. Apart from 4-H, I rode horse competitively and did a few shows with Waska Riders as well as cutting and sorting. I also competed in multiple sports such as swimming, track, and dance. Dance was, by far, my favorite and what I was the most skilled at as well. I did Just for Kix and the Minnewaska High School dance team, where I made it to the All-State dance team. I also volunteered at Hope Community, which was the church I was attending in Starbuck. I enjoyed working in the nursery and helping teach children’s church.
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At the chamber I mainly do administrative tasks. This has been helping me grow in my organizational and communication skills. I’m also looking forward to seeing what other skills I gain from my position here. It’s also been a great opportunity for me to discover new businesses, connect with new people, and learn how to get further involved in the community. As a young professional, I’m excited to see where this career takes me as I plant my roots and grow in the Alexandria Area.