Following is a Q&A with one of the 1,379 students who received a diploma May 5 at UW-Stout.
Name: Tyler Elwood
Hometown: Lublin
Major: Information communication technology, concentration in computer networking; minors in computer networking systems and design, enterprise technology and web technology
Awards, honors: Member of the first-place national network design team, Chancellor’s Award 2016-18
Why did you choose UW-Stout? I visited UW-Stout back in high school and found it to be a great in-depth school with hands-on learning. I felt like I could get more out of my education and have a better career outlook because of the hands-on approach. It was one of the most influential parts of choosing this school.
What are the biggest obstacles you faced in earning your degree? One of the biggest was being the first person in my immediate family to go to a four-year college. I had to figure out a lot, like sorting out what I really wanted to do for the rest of my life by finding a major and finding out what classes would benefit me the most for my degree and for electives. That being said, I ended up changing majors after my first semester and fell in love with the major I am going to be graduating with.
What stands out among your college experiences? I would have to say networking with my colleagues, because these are potentially going to be the people you could go to later in your career. When I think about things that stand out among my college experience I would have to say StoutCatholic is a big one. I’ve been blessed with so many opportunities to serve and grow as a leader. #MalloryForPresident. Also, the experience of getting engaged while in college is pretty great as well.
What’s next? I will be moving to Pewaukee, where I will be starting my career as a consulting engineer at Heartland Business Systems.
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