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 — it’s a triumph.

We’re proud to celebrate 36 graduates of UW–Madison Online who pushed through challenges, stayed the course and earned their bachelor’s degrees this spring and summer.

But don’t just take our word for it.

Hear directly from three of these graduates as they reflect on the hurdles they overcame, moments that mattered most, what they’re proud of and their advice to others following in their footsteps. And, of course, they share what it means to be a Badger.

I experienced a major setback when I was at UW–Madison in 2005. Although I left as a senior, I always knew I’d return — I just didn’t know when. Thanks to the flexibility and support of UW–Madison Online, I was finally able to finish what I started. I’m grateful to my counselor, Karen Thomas, who believed in me every step of the way and never doubted my ability to earn my bachelor’s degree.

Memorable moment: Submitting my final project after months of work while sitting in my office, realizing I’d completed the last requirement of my degree. There was no classroom applause or in-person high-five — but I sat there, overwhelmed, knowing I did it.

Biggest challenge: Balancing my coursework with a full-time job and coaching my wrestling team. There were many late nights, and I often had to study during lunch breaks. It required time management, sacrifice and persistence. Looking back, I’m proud I didn’t give up, even when things felt overwhelming. That experience strengthened my ability to multitask and stay focused under pressure — skills that are crucial in any professional setting.

What I’m proud of: My personal growth and perseverance. There were moments when the workload felt overwhelming or life outside of school got in the way, but I kept going. I stayed committed, met every deadline and pushed through challenges I never thought I could handle. Completing this degree wasn’t just about academics — it was proof that I could set a long-term goal, stay disciplined and achieve it. That sense of accomplishment is something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.

How this degree benefits me: Earning my degree will provide the foundational knowledge and credentials needed to pursue my personal business goals. It not only demonstrates my commitment and discipline but also opens doors to opportunities that require formal education — whether that’s advancing within a company, qualifying for graduate school or switching to a new field.

Advice for online learners: Don’t underestimate yourself. It’s easy to feel out of place or doubt your abilities when you’re balancing work, family and school, but your life experience is a strength, not a setback. Stay organized, ask for help when you need it and don’t be afraid to connect with classmates and professors. Progress may feel slow at times, but every assignment, discussion post and late-night study session is a step forward. You belong here, and you can absolutely do this.

Best part of being a Badger: The best part about being a Badger is being part of a passionate, supportive and resilient community. Whether you’re on campus or studying online, you feel the pride and connection that comes with being a part of something bigger than yourself. The Badger spirit is all about perseverance, inclusivity and a drive to make a difference — and that energy stays with you long after graduation. It’s not just a school identity; it’s a lifelong network and mindset.

Memorable moment: Each time that I did a degree audit when choosing the next semester’s courses, I could slowly see required courses change from red to green. Each course was one step closer to finishing up. And the most satisfying moment was when I had completed everything.

Biggest challenge: Limited time. Working a demanding full-time job, raising four teenagers and taking a full course load (12 credits a semester and 6 in the summers) made each moment critical. From taking final exams while on a road trip and Zoom calls while on an island to late-night and early morning homework and study sessions, they all taught me to prioritize my time and work on things in small spurts when I had time.

What I’m proud of: I am most proud of the grit and determination that I had to stick with the program and keep the end in mind. But more importantly, I am proud of setting the example for my kids, ages 15 to 20, that it is hard, it may not always look pretty, you may not always do as well as you expected in a course, but each assignment, test and course gets you one step closer to a degree.

How this degree benefits me: Earning my degree will open many more opportunities, both within my current company or in the open marketplace, where I was [previously] limited on what roles I could apply for. But more than having the degree, I have a lot more business knowledge that will help me in whatever my next role is.

Advice for online learners: You are not alone. It may feel lonely at times and hard to connect to the other students, but you are earning your degree. It doesn’t matter how late in life you get it, you are a Badger just the same.

Best part of being a Badger: I had a different experience being an online student, but I still am proud to be a Badger and that I completed the work to earn the degree from a top business school.

Memorable moment: There were long nights and plenty of busy weeks. But there was always a feeling of accomplishment as each course was completed. It felt amazing to see my personal progress as I got closer to finishing my goal. My most memorable moment was the overwhelming wave of love from my family and close friends at graduation who were my support system during my years at UW–Madison Online.

Biggest challenge: Time management and self-discipline have never been my major strengths. These skills had to be honed over my years at UW–Madison Online and have now become advantages that I have over other professionals.

What I’m most proud of: I am proud of my perseverance. There were classes that felt unbeatable (Finance 300) and classes that changed my entire perspective (American Dreamers).

How this degree benefits me: A bachelor’s degree unlocks new doors for me in my current role in marketing. An even bigger impact is that I am now in a position to look for even further education, pursuing my master’s degree.

Advice for online learners: You can do this. I took an 18-year break from higher education. The classes are challenging, but rewarding. I worked a full-time job and studied in the evenings. You can do that, too. You are capable and deserve this opportunity to change your life.

Best part of being a Badger: The best part about being a Badger is a lifelong membership into an exclusive group of Business Badgers that went through all the same challenges I did, accomplished the same things as I did, and now enter the workforce with a unique perspective and an exemplary education that only UW–Madison can offer.