Following is a Q&A with one of the 749 students who received a diploma Dec. 16 at UW-Stout.
Name: Chang Lor
Hometown: Wausau
Major: Cross-media graphics management
Awards, honors: President’s List, Frank and Mary Walters Award of Excellence, two-time McNair National Conference research presenter, Chancellor’s Award
Why did you choose UW-Stout? Prior to enrolling at UW-Stout, I attended Northcentral Technical College in Wausau and did initial research on which UW institution would best complement my two-year degree. UW-Stout was the only institution in the UW system that offered a graphic communications-related degree.
What are the biggest obstacles you faced in earning your degree? Having to manage my time. I utilized three calendars, work, school and extracurricular. I’ve learned that just saying “I’ll remember that” does not work for long-term events or deadlines. I’ve refrained from saying “I’m too busy,” because everyone is busy. It’s about prioritization. Having that time management skill has definitely helped me develop a better work-life balance. The biggest obstacle I faced was losing two close family members. Having to miss class to return home for a week or two took a toll on my course work, attendance, sleep, work and more. I learned that obstacles can slow you down, but the only thing that can stop you from achieving is you.
What stands out among your college experiences? Two things. One, a taste of adulthood. I transferred to UW-Stout and lived off-campus. I instantly became accustomed to paying multiple bills, doing groceries, cooking and having those small talks with my roommates. Do I regret not experiencing the “dorm life?” Not at all. I spent 10-plus hours daily on campus and felt I did, somewhat, live on campus. It was nice to return home to a relatively peaceful neighborhood. Two, research and being able to share my findings with students, instructors and industry professionals. The McNair program prepares students for graduate school. I was able to conduct two independent research projects, thanks to Barbara Bear, my research mentor, and presented at the 2017 and 2018 McNair National Conference. I was able to get one of my research projects published in the UW-Stout Journal of Student Research, spring 2017.
What’s next? My next chapter is graduate school and entering the workforce. I was accepted into the M.S. career and technical education program at UW-Stout. A big thank you to the McNair staff and Barbara Bear. My long-term goal is to teach within the graphic communications program on a postsecondary level. I will continue to work at Big Dot of Happiness, where I’ll be meeting with the CEO shortly to discuss career advancements. I’m optimistic about the future and am ready to face any obstacles or opportunities coming my way!
###
