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: Kayla Nessmann
Age: 19
Hometown: Combined Locks
Career program/major: English major and Women’s Studies minor
High School Attended: Kimberly High School
What is your career or life goal?
My goal one day is to be an activist. One of my biggest passions involve women’s rights. I would like to start my own non-profit organization that creates education, awareness, and action on the issues of sexual assault and domestic violence or sex trafficking. My other passion involves environmental rights and I would like to help mitigate efforts in slowing climate change and helping the environment.
What led you to choose your program or major?
I chose English as a major because I have a huge passion for writing and want to use my writing as a platform for social change and awareness. I think that English will be a solid degree that could get me to many different places.
Why did you decide to become a University of Wisconsin student at UWFox?
I decided to attend UWFox, as it is close to home and saves me a lot of money. Coming out of high school, I was undecided on where I wanted to go in life and UWFox seemed like the best option. I am able to work and go to school easily and save lots of money in the process.
Is there a UWFox professor or staff member who made a difference in your life or inspired you?
UWFox has an abundance of great professors who are all very intelligent in their own rights. One of my favorite professors has been Ellen Wilson. I have her for a GSW course and she is always enthusiastic to teach. She is a professor that I can have regular conversation with and relate to on a more personal side. It’s great to have professors that genuinely care about their students and want us to learn and succeed.
What is one piece of advice you would give to an incoming UWFox student?
I would tell future students to get involved! I was not super involved my first year of attending UWFox and was only focused on my classes. This semester, I have kept myself super busy by getting involved on campus and I have been so much happier because of it. I have met lots of people through these activities and having those connections makes being on campus more enjoyable.
Describe something unexpected that happened here at UWFox.
I did not expect to enjoy being here as much as I do. I had an idea in my head that UWFox was just an extension of high school, but I ended up really enjoying my time here. There are always activities happening and finding things on campus that I care about have been great ways to help further my passions.
When not in class or studying, what keeps you busy?
When I’m not in class or studying, I am involved on campus through Phi Theta Kappa, Social Equity and Engagement, and being a tutor in the Writing Pad. Outside of campus, I work at Petco and volunteer with Voices of Men.
What are your plans after UWFox?
This is my last semester at UWFox and I will be studying abroad next semester in Australia. After my semester abroad, I will be finishing my last two years of school at St. Cloud State University.
To learn more about the associate degree and options for beginning one of more than 200 majors at UW-Fox Valley, call (920) 832-2620 to schedule an appointment with an advisor.
Contact
Laurie Krasin
920-929-1108
laurie.krasin@uwc.edu