UW-Stevens Point helps students become career-ready by strengthening in-demand skills and creating professional development opportunities in the region and beyond. Let’s hear from Maria, a junior business administration major from Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin. She interns for the Century School of Business and Economics and plans over 300 plus professional events a year. Unbelievable. Let’s find out what makes Maria Pointer proud.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi everyone. At first I thought I wanted to be different than the two generations before me who went to UW-Stevens Point. However, I quickly realized that UWSP was just as much my home as it was for my parents and grandparents. Yes, indeed, I am a proud third-generation Pointer. Coming to UWSP as a transfer student, my goal was to involve myself not only in campus life, but also my academics. The business school is where I spend most of my time. I am the treasurer of Women in Business and the outreach coordinator for the Arts Management Association, two new and growing clubs at UW-Stevens Point. As a professional events intern at the accredited Sentry School of Business and Economics, I spend my time between classes at the Anderson Classroom to Career Center, planning and running over 300 professional business events, geared towards students. I can help my peers get involved in leadership positions and develop their critical thinking and communication skills necessary to thrive. Some even intern with Fortune 1,000 companies. One of our major events is the Internship Expo where students show off their hard work at the businesses and organizations they worked for over the semester or summer. I also have received the Business Advisory Council Scholarship, one of the many scholarships available at UW-Stevens Point to help fund my education. I am also involved in my sorority and hold the reigning title of Miss Wisconsin Rapids. My schedule is always full and I wouldn’t have it any other way. My journey didn’t start like everyone else’s, but UWSP made it easy to become a Pointer, so in true Pointer fashion, roll dogs. Back to you, Alex.
– Great job, Maria. An Entrepreneurship Center and Center for Women’s Equity and Development Leadership will soon benefit all students at UWSP. The sky’s the limit on ways a student can network and connect with future employers. Thank you for sharing your amazing story. Cheers to your Pointer parents and grandparents too.
Being a transfer student can be a bit nerve wracking. This was true from MatTeo, a junior majoring in arts management and media studies with a minor in business administration from Huntley, Illinois. MatTeo found UWSP while exploring programs related to events Management. hE’s adapted to the Wisconsin lifestyle, absolutely loves hanging out with new friends and even landed an internship related to his new program. Let’s hear more from Matteo now.
– Thank you, Alex. When I was searching for a college, I knew I wanted to get into arts management and focus on event management. While I was here, I took a couple very cool media studies courses and realized I wanted a double major in both arts management and media studies. Being a transfer student from Illinois, I came here not knowing anyone. I was nervous at first, but after just one day, I found a great group of friends. UWSP is more of a quiet and friendly community. The culture and lifestyle in Steven’s Point may be different, but I’m so interested in learning more about people in Central Wisconsin. They’re also interested in learning more about me too. I’ve learned to adapt to the Wisconsin lifestyle and I’ve tried some things I never thought I would be doing. I have been ice fishing and I learned about the ways my friends grew up. My advice is to go out and try new things because learning about new cultures is always so interesting. I love how involved the university has been with my education. For example, I’ve interned with UW-Stevens Point Continuing Education Office and worked on various marketing projects. I used this internship to learn all skills necessary for my field and to see if this field is even right for me. Luckily for me, I loved what I did and know this is the right path. When I first arrived here, I had no idea if I made the right choice. After becoming involved with things like club baseball, internships, and just going to school events, I knew this was my home. I will forever be a Pointer and never regret the decision to choose this school. Love you, mom, and back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Matteo. We are so glad UWSP is your home away from home. Your transfer story will help other students understand that they have a place at this wonderful university. Students looking to transfer can use the Transferology tool to see how their credits can transfer from over 68 schools. Cheers, Matteo.
Meet Kearyn, a health science pre-physical therapy major with a Spanish minor from Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Kearyn has always loved swimming and science and embraces both as a student-athlete. UWSP is home to more than 600 student-athletes, 26 varsity sports, and numerous Division III national and conference championships. Kearyn is building leadership skills that help her in and out of the classroom. Kearyn, you’re up.
– Thanks for that introduction, Alex. When I was looking for the perfect college, I knew I wanted two things, a college with a strong science and swim program. I’ve been swimming since I was seven-years-old and by the time my senior year of high school came around, I knew I just wasn’t ready to give it up. By participating in varsity athletics at UWSP, I was able to form an immediate group of friends who have become my family. I am part of the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. My time on the committee has not only helped develop my leadership skills, but connected me with other student-athletes outside of my team while helping our students and Stevens Point Community. Pointers compete in one of the most competitive Division III conferences in the country. With an impressive number of conference championships and NCAA appearances, Pointer athletics provides experiences you won’t wanna miss. UWSP still makes sure to put the student in student-athlete. The Tutoring Learning Center on campus offers free, one-on-one, or group tutoring for any class. Our teams also host study tables where we set aside time to work on classwork as a team. Juggling my pre-professional program and athletics felt overwhelming at first, but UWSP’s faculty and coaches worked with me to align my schedule with practices, enabling me to be successful both academically and athletically. While this might be my last year as a student-athlete, I’m not finished with my academic career. I’m currently applying to graduate schools to become a physical therapist. My top program is UWSP’s new Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, which will be fully accredited this year. After four years, I just can’t get enough of this campus and community. That’s all for me, roll dogs, Alex.
– Thank you, Kearyn for sharing your amazing story. Now, all varsity athletic events are free for UWSP students, so make sure to wear your purple and gold proudly. Kearyn has juggled being an athlete and continuing her studies in one of many pre-professional programs here at UWSP. Good luck in graduate school, Kearyn. We’re rooting for you.
Let’s hear from Mike, a senior majoring in psychology and philosophy with a minor in biology. UWSP helps students discover their purpose, whether it’s finding the program that piques the students’ interest or creating lasting connections with faculty and peers. UWSP is an academic powerhouse with innovative campus experiences. This is what makes UWSP so special. Mike, tell us more.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. I am in my final semester at UW-Stevens Point. I’ll be graduating with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Philosophy. I originally picked UWSP because I thought I knew what I wanted to study. What I found out was that I’ve learned way more than I could have expected during my time here. I entered my first year expecting to follow the path of a Wildlife Ecology student while participating in track and field as an extracurricular. My plans quickly changed just like many other students at UWSP. As an honors student, I had the opportunity to take an honors class in philosophy that left me so mystified that I had to add the major. Since then, I’ve changed my major two more times as I solidified my passions and goals. I love how this university allows its students to freely explore the many disciplines that it has to offer, along with having support from mentors such as those in the Student Success Center here on campus. You will not lack opportunities at UWSP. There’s more to experience here than could ever be done by one person. I’ve competed at national championships, I have presented at multiple conferences, and I’ve worked alongside researchers on neuroscience projects that usually aren’t accessible to undergraduates. Despite all that, my only regret is that I did not try more things. I’ll be completing my undergraduate studies soon and I intend to spend a considerable amount of time in Ghana after my graduation. I am pursuing an internship in clinical psychology at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to gain direct experience treating mental health disorders while I await responses from my PhD applications. UWSP has helped me to discover my purpose and pursue my passions. Back to you, Alex.
– Mike, thank you for sharing how UWSP helps students discover their purpose and passion. UW-Stevens Points honors program and hands-on learning opportunities create ways for students to explore their interests. Your work is important in telling the story of how to find a program that fits your passion. Great job.
UW-Stevens Point has a long history of offering sustainable practices and courses to help students become leaders in creating a more equitable, environmentally sound and prosperous future. Let’s meet Ashley, a junior who is graduating a year early, majoring in biochemistry from Appleton, Wisconsin. Ashley was interested in learning more about recycling and composting efforts when she arrived at Stevens Point and her story is incredible. Take it away, Ashley.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. Here at UWSP, you can find me involved in multiple student organizations like Waste Management Society, 350, an environmental justice organization, and the Student Government Association where I’ve held various positions, including the Environmental and Sustainability Affairs Director, and I now currently serve as the vice president. When touring colleges, I knew Stevens Point would be my new future home. It’s hard not to fall in love with a campus that has a 280 acre field station called Schmeeckle Reserve, a beautiful tropical conservatory, over 260 student organizations to get involved with and a commitment to sustainable initiatives. When I came to campus, I quickly began to question what is recyclable when seeing a MULTI-STREAM system. I was able to start collaborating with our UWSP Office of Sustainability and a professor in the Soil and Waste program. I started doing waste audits with other students, collecting data, and eventually became an advisor for a class doing the research. Separately, I created a course with a peer to educate people on how to recycle and compost. Overall, UWSP has always been committed to sustainability. Our campus holds numerous awards. For example, UWSP was the first university to receive the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Recycling Excellence Award and the first UW, certified as a bee campus, USA School. No matter what you take on, UWSP will provide you with the tools you need to succeed. You’ll leave here with great experiences and so many memories. Now you know a bit about my story. Back to you, Alex.
– So impressive, Ashley. UWSP has been the first in many sustainable initiatives. First UW School to be certified as a bee campus USA, first to use 100% renewable electricity, first to offer composting in every academic and administrative building, first to eliminate plastic water bottles in their dining operations, and the only UW school to be a member of the Green Sports Alliance. Ashley, thank you for being a leader in creating a more sustainable future. That was awesome.
Say hello to Logan, a junior forest management student with a fire science certificate. Like many other students at UWSP, Logan has a desire to learn in the great outdoors. UWSP was a perfect fit due to its three field stations in central Wisconsin. Logan will talk to us about his time as a natural resources student. Take it away, Logan.
– Thanks, Alex. I appreciate the introduction. I’ve always loved camping, hiking, fishing, and pretty much any other outdoor activity you can think of. Since the outdoors has always played such a huge role in my life, I knew I wanted to work a job where I could be outside. When I was a junior in high school, one of my teachers told me how UW-Stevens Point had a great natural resources program, and after looking at their website and seeing the various majors and clubs available, I decided it was the right place for me. Throughout my time at UWSP, so many of my classes and experiential labs have provided real-world, hands-on experiences, including using UAV thermal imagery technology in wildland fire operations. I not only have the opportunity to learn in the classroom, but I can go out into the field with professors and practice what I’ve learned. Once I graduate, I’ll already have the skills I need to be successful in my career. I’ve been a part of a club called the UWSP Fire Crew since I was a first-year student. In this club, students get wildland firefighting and prescribe burn training and opportunities. I’ve had the opportunity to volunteer in Florida and Illinois doing prescribed burns, and I’ve learned so much along the way. As a sophomore, I was able to work a wildland firefighting job with the US Forest Service and gain valuable experience. Coming into college, I wasn’t expecting to be exposed to so many great experiences. UW-Stevens Point has provided me with an abundance of opportunities that I couldn’t have imagined, which I know will benefit me upon graduation. Whatever it is you wanna do, go out and pursue it. Take every opportunity thrown your way. Your UWSP journey is about to be fire. Now, back to you Alex.
– Wow, coming in hot, Logan, thank you so much for sharing your experiences. The Fire Crew sounds like a great organization to join as a natural resources student. The expert professors, networking, and volunteer opportunities are just some of the reasons why UWSP has a leading program in natural resources. Thanks again, Logan.
Now introducing Elliott. Elliot is a senior from Appleton, Wisconsin, studying biochemistry with an emphasis in pre-medicine. Elliott is gonna tell us about being a first-generation student, her undergraduate research, and how UWSP has equipped her with the skills needed for graduate school. Take it away, Elliott.
– Thanks, Alex. Hi, everyone. Growing up, I had such a passion for science and an ambition to care for others, which led me to pursue a career in the medical field. I wanted a university that would prepare me for my future and I knew that UWSP was the best place for me to thrive. As a first-generation college student, the process of choosing the perfect college for me was daunting, but after touring UWSP, I fell in love with the campus, the faculty, and the small class sizes. The faculty are incredibly supportive and have acted as mentors for me in my undergraduate journey. They have introduced me to the many opportunities available to pre-medical students, including the honors program and undergraduate research. At UWSP, you get hands-on research experience with talented professors in our specialized labs. I am currently working as a reproductive biology research assistant and have had the honor of attending multiple conferences. I even won an award for presenting at the UW state final level and first place for my quick pitch presentation here on campus. Not only does research at UW-Stevens Point help further your education, but equip you with the skills needed for graduate school. Resources like the Tutoring Learning Center and the Academic and Career Advising Center are always available to help students succeed. Through UW-Stevens Point, I have become more independent and can seek one-on-one support from faculty and peers. UW-Stevens Point invests in their students’ goals by providing optimal support from faculty and enrichment opportunities. Because of the experiences I’ve had and the connections I’ve made, I feel more prepared than I could have imagined for my future in medical school. I would not trade my experience at UWSP for the world, and that’s my story. Back to you, Alex.
– Thank you, Elliott. We all loved hearing your story about the small class sizes and the investment UW-Stevens Point makes in students to achieve their goals. It’s really impressive stuff. The relationships between students and faculty and UWSP really do go a long way. Thanks again, Elliott.
Time to meet Kaia, a senior from St. Paul, Minnesota, majoring in musical theater. UWSP’s College of Fine Arts and Communication is proud to be ranked in the top 7% nationally with accredited programs in art, music, dance and theater. Kaia will tell us about the thriving fine art scene here at UWSP and how she has become career-ready. You’re up Kaia.
– Thank you, Alex. Hi everyone. The performing arts have always been a huge part of my life. From my church’s youth choir to my very first musical in high school. During high school, I discovered that I could make a living outta this passion that I had, so I started to explore schools. After a lot of searching and auditioning, I found UW-Stevens Point, the conservatory-level education with a state school price tag was what initially attracted me. The second I arrived at UWSP, I fell in love with the campus and the community that the college and the theater and dance department curated. Since my first year, I have been lucky enough to have been cast in a wide variety of productions. These opportunities help me to not only expand as an actor, but as a person. A fun fact about me, I was born hard of hearing and I am fluent in American Sign Language. Instead of hiding that part of myself, the theater and dance department gave me the space to put on my own presentation to show the beauty of American Sign Language. This gave me confidence and has opened career opportunities for me. The UWSP Theater and Dance Program sets you up for success. They provide connections, masterclasses, and opportunities to perform. For example, my sophomore year I expressed to one of my professors that I wanted to find a company to work at for the summer. My professor provided a list of theaters and hosted an audition on campus. That very audition gave me my first professional theatrical contract. If you were to tell my first year self where I am now career-wise, I don’t think I would believe you, but here at UWSP, you are encouraged to go above and beyond and you are given the resources to do so. Now, back to you, Alex.
– Wow, Kaia, it’s amazing learning how you are able to pursue your passion in music and performance while being supported by faculty, staff, and fellow Pointers. There are really no limits to what you can do right here at UWSP. Thanks again, Kaia.
Okay, everyone, it’s time to meet Tessa, a senior who hails from Italy and embarked on a remarkable journey to Old Dominion University in pursuit of her passion for volleyball and mechanical engineering. Get ready to hear about her unique experiences as a student athlete navigating rigorous academics and the world of sports. Tossing it to you, Tessa.
– Hey, Alex, thank you for the great introduction and to everybody, I grew up in Italy and I started playing volleyball when I was 11 years old. I immediately fell in love with the sport but getting a degree while playing in Italy, it’s hard because we don’t have college teams. So to follow my dreams, I came in the US here at Old Dominion University where I found a rigorous academic program and an amazing team. Being a student athlete is like having a full-time job. We have to manage our time between classes, practices and travel all year long. But thankfully here at ODU, we have a lot of people that makes our life easier. For example, all student athletes has an academic advisor who help us with our schedule and assignments. In addition, ODU athletics offers weekly tutoring as well as many on-campus resources. We have incredible facilities and study halls, psychologists and nutritionists to help us in our journey, not to mention the amazing friendships among teammates and other athletes. Even with our busy schedule, we are always there for each other. Within my major, the engineering faculty are always very understanding and willing to help, especially when I have to travel for out of state games. The professor wants you to learn and succeed in your classes. Being a student athlete here at ODU really encourage me to follow my dreams, play the sport that I love and study to become an engineer. It taught me to never give up on the things that I really care about and that hard works pays off both on the court and in the classrooms. ODU is giving me an excellent education, but more than that, a family on the other side of the ocean and I will always be incredibly grateful for this opportunity. Back to you, Alex, ciao, ciao.
– Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us. There are really no limits on what you can do with the amount of resources you have at your disposal right here at Old Dominion University. Good luck on the volleyball season this year, Tessa. We all are rooting for you.
Next up, we have Brandon, a second-year graduate student getting a master’s in lifespan and digital communications. From falling in love with ODU’s campus as a high school student to thriving as an online student and podcast producer, Brandon harnessed the university’s resources to pursue his passion and bring people together, Brandon.
– Thank you, Alex. I really hope you’re having a fantastic visit to ODU. It was the summer before high school when I first fell in love with ODU. At the time, I was attending a STEM residential program and absolutely loved exploring the campus and its wonderful resources. It’s only ironic that I now attend here as an online student. I am in my fourth year at Old Dominion University and I am now on my way to completing my master’s program. Being an online student, I have flexibility in completing my degree which allows for me to work and produce my podcast within my own schedule. Having spoken with over 100 guests on my platform, I love that I can use what I learn to help tell others’ stories. Just because I’m not on campus doesn’t mean that I can’t get involved. In fact, quite the opposite. I’ve been involved in countless organizations and leadership boards that helped make my undergraduate experience amazing. A fun fact about our university is that they have been doing distance learning for over 30 years. What’s even better is the devotion they put towards their students and alumni. As a student leader, I help advocate for online students to get involved and our Monarch community has been supportive all the way. As I always say, I’m on a mission to bring people together and my time at ODU has allowed for me to do just that. Thank you so much for listening to my story and back to you, Alex.
– Brandon, it’s evident that your time here at Old Dominion University has been filled with incredible experiences and opportunities. Your passion for storytelling and bringing people together through your podcast is remarkable. As you move towards completing your master’s program and beyond, there’s no doubt that you’ll continue to inspire others to make a difference in the world. Thanks again, Brandon.