This Spotlight series recognizes a UWFox student’s academic achievements and personal story. Students are nominated for this spotlight by faculty and staff.
Name: Katie Ruth
Age: 33
Hometown: New London
Currently Residing: Menasha
Current program/major: Business Administration
Why did you choose UW Fox?
A friend of mine was attending UWFox, and I asked her about the qualifications needed to get into college. I was home schooled and wasn’t sure how it compared to public curriculum. She advised me to go to UWFox and take a placement test. The next day I took a placement test and they said, “Great, you start in two weeks.” It turned out to be a great choice financially and academically.
Why did you choose your program/major?
Like most students, I was unsure. I wanted to keep my major broad enough that I could use it with any career path, but specific enough that I could get a good foundation of knowledge for the career direction I decide on. I currently work for Community First Credit Union. My degree, in business administration, seems to work well with my strengths and the direction I’m going in the company.
What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?
I used to think of administration as the people who make coffee and file paperwork. At Community First, it is so much more than that. Administration is involved in many different aspects of the company and my favorite is event planning!
In addition to being a college student, what takes up your free time?
I have a husband and two beautiful boys, ages 3 and 4, who take up most of my time. They are so patient and understanding when it comes to my busy schedule and late nights of homework. It is a real balancing act between my family, school, working full time, and volunteering for various organizations throughout the community and at school. I am very blessed to have the love and support from family and friends to be able to do all the things I love doing.
What do you plan to do after UW Fox?
I plan to transfer to UW Oshkosh to continue my education in business administration and continue to grow with Community First.
What is one piece of advice you have for incoming UW Fox students?
Start out part time your first semester. College is more demanding and time consuming than high school and it is easy to become overwhelmed.
What is something unexpected or surprising that has happened during your time at UW Fox?
I met the wonderful Diane and Melissa in the UW-Fox Valley Foundation office. I have been doing volunteer work for them. The experiences and connections have been amazing.
To meet with a UW-Fox Valley advisor about returning to college as a non-traditional student, call (920) 832-2620.
UWFox is part of the University of Wisconsin System and one of the 14 freshman/sophomore campuses of the UW Colleges. UWFox offers an Associate of Arts and Science Degree, the foundation to a bachelor’s degree and specialized professional and occupational degrees.
Contact
Laurie Krasin
920-929-1108
laurie.krasin@uwc.edu