Following is a Q&A with one of the 1,379 students who received a diploma May 5 at UW-Stout.
Name: Kelsey Jahn
Hometown: Menomonie
Major: Retail merchandising and management
Why did you choose UW-Stout? Being from Menomonie, I was that girl who said that never in a million years would I go to Stout, and I originally went to Minnesota State-Mankato for public relations. After about one month at MSU, I contacted my parents letting them know that I had been looking online at different career options and came across fashion and retail, which had always been a big interest of mine. After my parents got over the initial shock of me already wanting to transfer schools, they agreed that there was no better place for me than the retail merchandising and management program at Stout. As I said, I never would have seen myself here, but after 4½ years I don’t think I could have ended up at a better school.
What are the biggest obstacles you faced in earning your degree? For me it was realizing that just because certain companies are talked about more than others in the program does not mean those are the only options for internships and jobs, nor are they always the best. If you want something, you have to do a lot of searching and just go out there and get it. Nothing will come to you if you are not willing to make your own path and work for it.
What stands out among your college experiences? Everyone is so friendly, and there is such a variety of people. Stout is its own little community within a community, which makes it very welcoming. There is always something to do and ways to get involved outside of class whether it be clubs or being on some sort of team. Stout wants you to get involved and feel like you belong there no matter your interests or career path.
What’s next? I have been fortunate enough to land the job of my dreams as a purchasing agent for Baby Grand, a baby boutique with locations in Hopkins and St. Paul, Minnesota. I cannot express my excitement to be able to do exactly what I have dreamed of for years now and begin that journey right out of college.
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