Kristy Jorgensen

Mother, Guardsman, Badger
UW-Madison Online student, class of 2024

A first-generation college student, working mom and member of the military, Kristy is proud to be a Badger.

• What led to your decision to return to school and finish your bachelor’s degree?

I am the first in my family to complete a bachelor’s degree, so that was always a goal of mine. I never thought it would be a reality, however. I faced endless roadblocks before I even started, so though my journey will have taken 17 years from when I graduated high school, it will feel amazing to finish.

• Why did you choose UW–Madison?

UW–Madison has always been my dream school. My parents worked on campus in maintenance when I was a kid, so I got to know the campus space very well. Additionally, UW–Madison has a wonderful reputation, and its graduates garner a lot of respect.

• What advice would you give others who are considering an online bachelor’s degree program?

Make sure you have a very strong support network. While there is flexibility in an online program to complete schoolwork virtually anytime, trying to get it done with a full-time job and other obligations requires a lot of time management and having others along for the ride to support you as a student.

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