Age: 19

Hometown: Spencer, WI

High school attended: Spencer High School

Current program or major: Marketing and Management/Human Resources

Q: Why did you choose UW-Marshfield/Wood County?

C.H.: I chose UW-Marshfield/Wood County because it is close to home, and I knew enrolling here would save me a lot of money. My choice to come here will actually save me more money than I had initially anticipated. Last year, UW-Madison introduced a new program, the Badger Promise. Through this program, I will receive two years of free tuition at UW-Madison when I transfer there this fall. If I wouldn’t have chosen UW-Marshfield/Wood County, I wouldn’t be eligible for this program.

Q: What surprised you the most about UW-Marshfield/Wood County when you arrived on campus?

C.H.: I was surprised by how welcoming everybody was. I came here not knowing many people, but due to the kindness of other students, faculty and staff members, I’ve always felt a strong sense of belonging here. This is one of the many benefits of a smaller school, as you get a chance to make meaningful connections with people.

Q: Why did you choose your program/major?

C.H.: I’ve always been very business-minded. Throughout my childhood, I had my dad to look up to, as he owns several businesses. His example inspired me to start my own business, “Cinnamin’s Roasted Nuts,” as a senior in high school. I sold cinnamon glazed almonds and pecans, Razor J’s (my dad’s) Old-Fashioned Kettle Corn, and various other treats. My main location was in the Marshfield Mall, but I also sold my products at local events. I successfully ran the business for over a year but sold it recently to direct my time and focus toward my studies and extracurricular activities.Running my own business was a valuable experience, giving me insight as to what I want to do for a career.

Q: In addition to being a college student, what takes up your free time?

C.H.: I am very involved on campus; I am a Student Ambassador, serve as vice president of Internal Affairs on Student Senate and am the student representative on two campus committees. I also have a work-study job in the business office. Off campus, I’m an adult leader at REMYX Youth Group at North Ridge Church in Marshfield. I also enjoy exploring nature, staying active, cooking, and spending time with my family.

Q: Who has been your favorite professor or staff member?

C.H.: Anna Komanecki, my supervisor, and Campus Administrator Michelle Boernke, have been my favorite staff members. I spend 12 hours a week at my work-study job, and they have made this a great experience. Not only do I learn a variety of valuable office-related skills under their direction, I pick up life lessons through our conversations.

Q: What do you plan to do after UW-Marshfield/Wood County?

C.H.: My time at UW-Marshfield/Wood County will be relatively short, as I will be completing my associate’s degree in one year because of my heavy course load and the opportunities I had in high school to take college credit courses. I will finish out my bachelor’s degree with two years at UW-Madison.

Q: What is one piece of advice you have for incoming UW-Marshfield/Wood County students?

C.H.: College is all about balance, organization, and time management. Definitely focus on school, but don’t stress out and spend every second of your time studying. Get involved on campus, or in the community, and also make time to relax and do things you enjoy. Remember, there are many people and resources on campus to help you succeed along the way.