Inspiring Graduate: Monica Miranda (’23)
- Hometown: Eau Claire and Menomonie area
- Degrees: B.S. Marketing & Business Education; B.S. Business Administration
Graduating in 3½ years with two majors is no easy feat. It’s often only possible by completing a course load of 18 credits each semester, as well as taking summer and WinTerm classes.
But with a dedication that proves her passion for her future career as a teacher, Monica Miranda earned her degrees in marketing and business education and business administration and graduated from UW-Stout on Dec. 16, along with 526 graduates.
She was hired before graduation as a business teacher in the Colfax School District and plans to return to UW-Stout in the near future for her master’s degree.
Both of Miranda’s parents attended UW-Stout, as well as her college-aged siblings. And her grandmother and mother used to work at the University Library.
“I guess you could say that Stout kind of runs in the family,” she said.
How has your UW-Stout education changed you and prepared you for your field?
The polytechnic advantage that Stout offers is one of the main benefits that attracted me to attend.
Stout changed my education through the polytechnic opportunities it provided.
At Stout, I was able to be hands-on and experience new things in my majors. The program-specific classes showed me what the marketing and business fields are like now. I was immersed in the education profession through the student organization and educational conferences, where I could connect with individuals in the profession.
What stands out about your UW-Stout experience?
The professors. The support, excitement and encouragement that I received from the instructors was surprising and really allowed me to open up to the college experience.
The professors care, and I could feel their support on a personal level on a daily basis.
The community within the university allowed me to build lifelong connections with other students and individuals in the business and education professions. I enjoy a campus that is not too large, where students are still able to feel a sense of community.
How did your involvement on campus impact your experience?
I was involved in the Marketing and Business Education Association, as a member and then as vice president, and was a program ambassador for the MBE major. These extracurriculars allowed me to meet new people and form relationships, to make the university feel more like a community.
I have been a recipient of the Future Fund of Wisconsin Scholars. This opportunity impacted my college experience greatly, as it alleviated some financial stress.
What challenges did you face in earning your degree and how did you overcome them?
It was a challenge finding a balance between work and school. During COVID, I worked more, as most classes were online, but still had a full course load. I created a time management plan that helped balance the workload.
I think another challenge I faced was overcoming self-criticism. I have a level of perfectionism that I strive to meet, like completing assignments in an advanced timeframe.
What are you most proud of as you finish your degree?
I am most proud of the determination and perseverance that I have shown throughout my college career, and to be graduating early with a double major. I am proud of seeing my hard work and dedication pay off.
The relationships that I have made through UW-Stout are what made my experience the most positive. The individuals I have surrounded myself with continuously inspire me and encourage me to try new things. Being open to meeting new people was one of the best choices I ended up making.
