First Generation College Student Gains Skills for Future Career

Manuel poses with the 2020 Aspire Award

Aspire Awardee continues education to succeed in career.

Manuel is a first-generation college student. He connected with the WorkSmart Network and WIOA Out-of-School Youth Program for tuition assistance and support navigating the college system.

Currently, Manuel is excelling in his final semester at Madison College, made the Dean’s List twice and will graduate with a Business Management Associate’s Degree. Manuel is also balancing work at Kwik Trip, where he’s using his new knowledge to grow in his career.

“I believe he has the endurance, self-motivation, ambition and discipline he needs to accomplish anything he wants,” said Manuel’s academic advisor. “He reaches out for assistance when he needs it. He adapts very well to any changes and makes the most out of it.”

Manuel plans to apply to the Liberal Arts Transfer – Economics and Pre-Business Program in spring 2021 to complete the credits needed to transfer to the College of Business and Economics at UW Whitewater.

“I am very excited that I got the opportunity to go to college and will be the first person in my family to receive an associate’s degree,” said Manuel. “I am also hoping that in the future I will get the opportunity to work for a major company or possibly start my own successful company.”

Manuel received the Aspire Award at the 2020 WDBSCW Annual Awards Celebration for his perseverance and accomplishments.

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