Age: 20

Hometown: Medford

High school attended: Medford Area Senior High School

Current program or major: Physical Education

Why did you choose UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield?

I chose UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield because it’s a great place to complete your general education class requirements and save money at the same time. My father, Garett Shipman, went to college here too. He played basketball for the Marauders. I wanted to follow in his footsteps.

What surprised you the most about UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield when you arrived on campus?

I was surprised by how available and supportive all of the professors were. They go out of their way to make their students succeed.

Why did you choose your program/major?

I was undecided on what I wanted to major in when I came here. However, half way through my first year, I decided on physical education. I had been thinking about becoming a phys ed teacher for a while, and the decision became clear after I took a few classes.

What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?

It’s interesting that there are so many different ways to teach children and finding the right way to teach each child is important for his or her learning.

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

Well, I have four jobs and the first one is teaching tennis lessons to kids. This is my second year working as a tennis instructor for the Marshfield Parks and Recreation Department, and I love it. My second job is at the Marshfield YMCA, occasionally filling for other staff members. I also work for the university, operating the game clock for men’s basketball team. I also am a Residents Assistant for the Villas at Marshfield.

Who has been your favorite professor or staff member?

I really enjoy Health Education Professor Lori Galetka’s classes. She also answers my questions as soon as possible. Another favorite is Professor Julie Tharp. I have had an English class with her every semester. Her classes always include interesting discussions. Biology Professor Laura Lee has been very helpful during my time at UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield. If it wasn’t for her determination to see me succeed, I mayhave dropped her class. Instead, she suggested we meet every Friday to review what we learned that week, which helped me immensely.

What do you plan to do after UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield?

I am excited that I will be moving onto our main campus in Stevens Point for the fall 2019 semester to complete my bachelor’s degree.

What is one piece of advice you have for incoming UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield students?

Jump right in and enjoy college while you can! If you enjoy sports, try out for a Marauder sports team. The coaches are always looking for more players. I had the time of my life in basketball and tennis. I also tried out for volleyball, even though I had never played before, and had a lot of fun.