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Online graduate Manny Avila posing for a picture beside a shelf holding trophies and framed certificates Graduate Q&A: From first-gen college student to global career

For Manny Avila, going back to school was about more than a degree — it was a promise kept.  Motivated by his family, he returned…

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Professional headshot of Kristy Jorgensen in front of Wisconsin State Capitol building. Graduate shares how online bachelor’s boosted her career – and her confidence

Kristy Jorgensen When we say our graduates achieve their goals, we mean it.  Case in point: Kristy Jorgensen. A first-generation college grad, working mom and…

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Rachel Kane posing for a graduation picture Congrats to our most recent grads!

Earning a college degree is always worth celebrating. But for adults balancing jobs, families and other responsibilities, returning to school is more than an achievement…

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Badger graduates in caps and gowns A new class of Badgers earns  UW–Madison Online bachelor’s degrees

Congratulations, graduates! Completing a degree is no small feat—but doing so entirely online? That’s a testament to unparalleled dedication, discipline and resilience. This past December,…

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Amanda Sauri kneels next to her young son against a light brown backdrop Finding college success in recovery

Amanda Sauri and her son September is National Recovery Month, a time to recognize the recovery community and the importance of evidence-based treatment for mental…

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Manny Avila Manny Avila

A single dad with a demanding job, Manny found time and energy to complete his degree and set an example for his son.

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John sitting at his computer in front of a large window Online student laser focused on finishing his Badger bachelor’s degree

In 2008, John Gloeckler was fresh out of high school, starting his higher education journey at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. A proud Badger who attended…

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Joey sitting next to his van and surfboard with a foldout table and his laptop Creative entrepreneur sets sights on finishing bachelor’s in business – online

On a clear summer day at a Milwaukee beach on Lake Michigan, you might see people flying kites, freshwater surfing or having a picnic. You…

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A smiling Manny and his son working on a laptop First-generation returning adult student boosts career potential, makes family proud

Learn how Manny Avila is making time in his busy home and work life to pursue an online bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Madison.

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Kristy and her family looking over her coursework Busy mom, military member pursues Badger dream with online degree

Kristy Jorgensen’s dream of earning a college degree at the University of Wisconsin–Madison formed early on in her childhood. After overcoming challenges, she’s making that…

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Bucky Badger statue in graduation garb Online bachelor’s degree offers former Badger a second chance

Troy Marinkovic Troy Marinkovic’s initial college journey didn’t play out according to plan. He never intended to withdraw from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, as evidenced…

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Dan Barry scrolling on his phone. Community college transfer student proud to be a business Badger

Dan Barry transferred from Madison Area Technical College to UW-Madison Online, where he’ll earn his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Business Administration–Management while continuing to work and raise his family.

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woman on her tablet in front of a window UW–Madison Online: Educational access for returning adult students

For Nicole Knutson, it was never if she would get a college degree, it was when. She loved academics. But after high school, about halfway into her first…

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