This Spotlight series recognizes a UW-Fox Valley student’s academic achievements and personal story. Students are nominated for this spotlight by faculty and staff.
Name: Katherine Holbrook
Age: 34
Hometown: Clintonville, WI
Career program/major: Undecided
Member of Phi Theta Kappa
What led you to choose your program or major?
I am currently undecided about my major, but I’m seriously considering majoring in art. Otherwise, it will be one of the other areas I’m interested in like biology or geology. I’m trying to spend some time in as many subjects as possible right now so that I can feel sure about the direction I choose. I love painting, but I am also strongly drawn to the sciences. I’m just enjoying learning everything I can at this point.
Why did you decide to become a University of Wisconsin student at UWFox?
Last year I had just finished a machinist apprenticeship at a technical college, and even though I was glad to have gained that experience and knowledge, I felt like I wanted to pursue interests that were more intellectual in nature. My academic advisor pointed me toward UWFox. It seemed to be the best option for me as it was the closest and most affordable school. I’m very glad I did. I really appreciate the small class sizes because I get to spend time with the teachers and really benefit from their experience. I also love how many international students there are here. Getting to interact with them has really enriched my whole experience.
Is there someone at UWFox who made a difference in your life or inspired you?
There have been a few! I have to say first that my art professor, Judith Waller, has had a real impact on my life by recognizing and encouraging my interest in art and by introducing me to painting. She is so passionate about art and I can’t help but be inspired when she talks about it. Painting will always be a part of my life now. I’m so thankful that I’ve had the chance to spend time with her. Also, Christina Marty and Peter De Smidt are two teachers here that I’ve really appreciated because they always took time to encourage and were willing to discuss challenges or interests that came along. That really makes all the difference to a beginning student.
What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming UWFox student?
Get to know your teachers and classmates! All the teachers I’ve met so far have been very receptive to communicating with their students, and getting to know them a little goes a long way in making the classes a positive experience. Get your money’s worth out of your time here by really taking advantage of all of that knowledge.
Describe something unexpected that happened here at UWFox.
Well I can definitely say that I didn’t expect to be taking art this seriously. To actually be considering majoring in it – that came as a positive surprise!
When not in class or studying, what keeps you busy?
I guess because so much of the school year takes place during the cold months, when I’m not busy with homework I’m usually watching movies or TV shows or gaming with my siblings and other friends. I like to be at home more than out. I don’t like crowds, so I’m much more likely to spend my free time reading or researching some interesting topic on the internet than to be out with people. During the summer, I like to play volleyball, tennis, hackysack, and going camping with my family.
What are your plans after UWFox?
There’s a big question! I really don’t have plans that far ahead. It depends on whether or not I decide I’m interested enough in something to go on to a 4-year school. If so, I think I’ll still stay close to home. I’m surely not a poster-child for higher education, but I’m enjoying it so far. I think that most likely I’ll keep on with it. I’m content to be taking life as it comes and not trying too hard to make concrete plans because I can’t know what life will bring, but I still know that my future isn’t left to chance.
To learn more about returning to school to earn a college degree, call (920) 832-2620 to schedule an appointment with an advisor. More than 25% of our students are over the age of 22.
Contact
Laurie Krasin
920-929-1108
laurie.krasin@uwc.edu