A Q&A with one of the 750 students who received a diploma Dec. 14 at UW-Stout:
Name: Jasmine Baker
Hometown: Matteson, Ill.
Major: Professional communication and emerging media
Awards, honors: Student Employee of the Year, Leadership Awards 2019, Chancellor’s Award 2017
Why did you choose UW-Stout? I chose UW-Stout because of its involvement in the Midwest Student Exchange Program, which makes it cheaper for students living in the Midwest to attend.
What are the biggest obstacles you faced in earning your degree? I think the biggest obstacle I had to face was being a minority. I always doubted myself and my culture a lot and felt I had to change to be somebody on campus. It didn't take until my sophomore year to realize that I didn't need to change for anyone or anything. I think another obstacle I ran into was changing my major to the PCEM program. I think it's good to recognize that changing your major is OK and that your passion is not encompassed in just your major.
What stands out among your college experiences? The big thing that still sticks with me today is the Stoutward Bound program managed by Multicultural Student Services. From freshman year all the way to now, the program has really made me feel like I have a place here at Stout. I got to meet so many amazing people from different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences, and it also just made me grow as a person. I will forever be grateful for the amazing opportunities and the amazing people that I've encountered from the program.
What’s next? Currently looking to work in the social media field at a nonprofit organization that caters toward diversity, inclusion and advocacy in the Minneapolis area.
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