This Spotlight series recognizes a UW-Fond du Lac student’s academic achievements and personal story. Students are nominated for this spotlight by faculty and staff.
Matt is a business major active in campus sports including soccer, tennis and basketball. His future plans are to become a Certified Public Account after earning his bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting.
Name: Matt Schneider
Age: 19
Hometown: Fond du Lac, WI
Career program/major: Business
High School Attended: Fond du Lac High School
Why did you decide to become a University of Wisconsin student at UW-Fond du Lac?
I was born and raised here so I am a loyal Fond du Lac resident. My brother also influenced me to become a UW-Fond du Lac Falcon because he went here a few years ago and loved it! I saw some of the interesting classes he took, and he had such a great time here that I decided to go as well. What attracted me was the low tuition and the ability to play three sports. I played soccer, tennis and basketball in high school so going to UW-Fond du Lac gave me the chance to continue to compete in athletics at a post-secondary institution.
What is your career or life goal?
My career goal is to become a successful business man and travel to many adventurous places around the globe. I want to be able to support my family and provide a great life for them as well as give back to my community as they have done so much for me.
Is there a UW-Fond du Lac professor or staff member who made a difference in your life or inspired you?
Sayeed Payesteh, my business and economics professor, has probably made the biggest impact on my life. He repeatedly shows passion in his desire to help students become better than they were the first day they walked into his classroom. He showed me that I, too, can be a success no matter how hard my journey may be. He showed me it’s possible, and possible is all I need to make my dreams come true.
What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming UW-Fond du Lac student?
I would tell an incoming UW-Fond du Lac student to take as many classes as they can here because there are a lot of very knowledgeable professors to learn from. They should also get involved in athletics, student government, theater performances or different organizations that the university has to offer because it makes their experience here a whole lot more fun. Intramural sports offered are also a relaxing activity and fun way to get involved and meet new faces, something I highly recommend.
Describe something unexpected that happened here at UW-Fond du Lac.
I was surprised to see a comedian come in and give a stand-up comedy session in our commons. That was one of the cooler events I have been a part of. Also, the big parties in the commons during finals week and during the holidays are a lot of fun as well. I didn’t know UW-Fond du Lac did these types of things for its students. The free food, games and entertainment relaxed me as a student when a lot of tests were going on so it was a really nice surprise.
When not in class or studying, what keeps you busy?
I play sports in my spare time and I love to work out and exercise. I spend about and hour in the gym every day working out to meet my goals. All though I’m no Zac Efron, I hope I can have a similar physique (and maybe his jaw line too but that’s just wishful thinking).
What led you to choose your program or major?
My father went to UW-Whitewater, passed the CPA exam and works as a tax accountant. I plan to follow in his path but possibly become a CFO, Controller, or even CEO. He has taught me a lot about business concepts and I have grown to have a burning interest in the field.
What are your plans after UW-Fond du Lac?
After UW-Fond du Lac, I am going to attend UW-Whitewater for at least two years while being enrolled in the College of Business and Economics. After I earn my bachelor’s degree with an emphasis in either finance or accounting, I plan to take the CPA exam to become a Certified Public Accountant. I might even try to be a walk on for the tennis or soccer team there as well so that my college athletics don’t come to an end after I leave UW-Fond du Lac.
Contact
Laurie Krasin
920-929-1108
laurie.krasin@uwc.edu