ASU at Lake Havasu City's newest entrepreneur

Editor's note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable spring 2021 graduates.

Brooke Bahde shines as one of the most successful photographers in her hometown of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Not only is she a young, successful entrepreneur, she's also a recent graduate of ASU at Lake Havasu City.

"I'm a 20-year-old entrepreneur who has devoted my life to chasing after my everlasting dream of being a photographer," Bahde said. "In fact, my itching desire to create motivated me to graduate high school a year early to get started on the business I've been growing since eighth grade." 

Bahde graduated summa cum laude from ASU at Lake Havasu City with a Bachelor of Arts in communication. 

Question: What was your “aha” moment, when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in? 

Anwser: As a photography business owner, I was seeking to find a major that would help my company grow. Since photography was not offered at the ASU Havasu campus, I decided to go with communication. Through this degree, I realized that I would be able to grow my social media marketing methods, which would directly benefit my business. By staying in my hometown, I was able to expand my client base and begin my career while in school. I am also a huge fan of the lake and spending time boating with my family and friends, which made this campus perfect for me. 

Q: What’s something you learned while at ASU — in the classroom or otherwise — that surprised you or changed your perspective?

A: Something that I learned through ASU was how to take advantage of the help offered. Every professor, staff member, and the student body was beyond kind and willing to help me grow. Once I started to learn how to make connections and ask for advice, internships, or other resources, my photography business began to grow and soar. 

Q: Why did you choose ASU?

A: ASU was my first choice because it was close to my hometown and my family. 

Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?

A: Dr. Leepsa Madhabika taught me to treat every single day like it’s gold. Her business classes inspired me to push myself to become the best version of myself. Whether that meant growing my education, relationships, or my personality, she taught me to never stop learning. She also taught me to balance, have fun, take every moment in, and be continuously grateful for those who have helped me reach my goals. 

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you’d give to those still in school?

A: The best way to accomplish any goal is to imagine someone else your age doing the exact same thing, but 10 times better. This mindset helped me continuously strive to be ahead of the game and reach for the stars. 

Q: What was your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying, meeting friends, or just thinking about life?

A: My favorite spot on campus in Lake Havasu was the outdoor patio area of the student center. I would sit and look out at the lake between study breaks. 

Q: What are your plans after graduation?

A: After graduation, I will continue to expand my photography career using the business and marketing skills that I have learned in college. 

Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?

A: With this money, I would invest in leadership training for middle school students around the world. Teaching young adults how to professionally present themselves, learn how to reach their goals, speak in public, build relationships with others, or the many other skills that come with leadership training, can help any kid become loving and hyper-successful in their future. 

Bahde was rewarded with the following scholarships: New American University Scholar — Provost's Award, John & Cindy Hughes Scholarship, Sun Angel Business, Havasu Classics, National Society of High School Scholars Foundation, London Bridge Rotary Foundation Inc., Catholic Daughters of America (Court our Lady of the Lake #2213), Marine Corps League Det 757. Lake Havasu City Detachment and London Bridge Lions Club.