#studentcentral

If you’ve been in Student Central lately, you may have seen a couple of new faces roaming about. Perhaps you’ve even heard an unfamiliar voice leave you a friendly voicemail reminding you about registration and payment due dates. Curious to know more about these new recruits? Your time is now! This month, we are giving you three fresh faces for the price of one. Please help us in welcoming our new SOAR (Student Outreach and Retention) students!

Jaidon

Jaidon is in the Liberal Arts transfer program and is about to start her second semester. She said her interest in working at Student Central stemmed from her desire to help students feel less overwhelmed by the different aspects of higher education. Her favorite part of being a SOAR student so far has been the new and interesting people she has gotten to meet. After graduation, Jaidon hopes to find a job in graphic or web design. She wants to stay in Wisconsin and ultimately raise a family here. Jaidon’s greatest inspiration is her parents because they remind her to remain motivated and happy.

Laura

Laura is in her first year as a Digital Marketing major and plans to graduate next December. She said her desire to problem-solve and answer questions is what attracted her to working in Student Central. Laura’s favorite part of SOAR so far has been the positivity of Student Central, and she appreciates how helpful her co-workers are. Laura is interested in going into graphic design for a local business after graduating, with the ultimate goal of running a freelance business from home. As far as what inspires Laura, she looks up to people who live their lives in a meaningful, positive way.

Shinang

Shinang is going into his fourth semester as a Nursing student. He said he wanted an opportunity to help students at CVTC with their schooling, which is what drove him to apply for the SOAR position. The part of his job he loves most is working with amazing students and staff. After graduating, Shinang would like to take time off to travel and see the world. When it comes to what inspires him most, Shinang said his greatest inspirations are Greek mythologies.

Name: Zaaj Khang

Hometown: Wisconsin Rapids

Major: Radiography

Tell us about yourself and your journey to CVTC.Tell us about yourself and your journey to CVTC.

I was born in Wisconsin Rapids and lived there until I was in elementary school. After that, my family moved to Hudson, Wisconsin, and then we came to Eau Claire. There is a total of seven people in my family, and I am the oldest of my five siblings. I chose to come to CVTC because it is close to home.

What made you choose your program? Did anyone or anything in particular inspire you?

Originally, I was planning to go into the IT network specialist program. I took some high school classes related to IT but wasn’t sure if I liked it, and I was very indecisive. I began talking with my uncle, who is a radiologic technologist, and he gave me some insight about his job. Essentially, my uncle and mom inspired me to pursue the radiography program.

What are your plans after school?

I would love to be a radiologic technologist in the Eau Claire area someday. I would love to give back to my mom and dad in the future—they have always supported me. My mom is going back to school for nursing, and I am very proud of her.

How did you choose CVTC? Who helped you be successful?

I chose CVTC with the help of a family friend. She told me about the College, and I felt that it would be a good fit for me. It’s a bonus that it’s close to home too. My siblings look up to me and hold me accountable. They drive me to succeed in school.

What do you enjoy most about your current classes?

I find school interesting. I think it’s important to learn anything you can as long as you can. It’s fun to learn different concepts.

What do you enjoy doing outside of class?

My church is my second home. I attend the Hmong Christian church and was the youth president there. We do egg roll fundraisers often, which is very fun.

Share some cool facts with us!

-        I’ve made 25,000 egg rolls in one day with my church.

-        I like playing the drums and guitar for church.

-        I don’t watch a lot of TV shows, but I do watch different types of movies.

-        I have pet chickens and fish.

Name: Adrian Sabani

Hometown: Anchorage, Alaska

Major: Digital Marketing

Tell us about yourself and your journey to CVTC.

I graduated from Altoona High School in 2014 and started at CVTC that fall for accounting. Shortly after beginning classes, I was dismissed in 2015 because I wasn’t passionate about the program. In 2016, I came back and was undeclared; then, I switched to business management for one semester. Eventually, I found my way to digital marketing. I currently live in Eau Claire, and my family lives in Marshfield. I’m doing an internship at CVTC right now, but when I go home on the weekends, I’m a server at a local café.

What made you choose this program? Did anyone or anything inspire you?

I originally thought marketing was going to be my niche. However, when I met with my advisor, they thought digital marketing would be a better fit, as it was a new program at the time. I wanted to find something I enjoyed, and my advisor was right—it’s the perfect choice for me!

What do you want to be when you grow up? Plans after school?

When I was 13, I wanted to be a famous YouTuber and have a channel about video games. Now, I want to find a position locally and specialize in digital arts and videography. I don’t have a dream job, but I know I want to work somewhere I can maintain a good work-life balance.

How did you choose CVTC? What helps you be successful?

In high school, I didn’t take my grades seriously, but I knew I wanted to go to college. I chose CVTC because of their transfer agreements with other universities and its affordability. I’m successful when I prioritize and use good time management. Because I wasn’t successful at CVTC when I first started, I’ve learned that perseverance and tenacity help me grow and get better.

What do you enjoy about your classes?

I love that my classes highlight hands-on and practical skills. Shout out to Laurie Boettcher—she makes class fun and helps every student learn something new!

What do you enjoy doing outside of class?

When I’m not in class, I enjoy cooking—specifically stuffed shells, if I have the time. Otherwise, I like to lounge and play basketball.

Share some cool facts with us (Hobbies? Interests? Fun facts about you?).

It only happens about twice a year, but I like to be artsy and spontaneously doodle.

Although you may feel like this:

We want you to feel like this:

 Here is how you can make the most of your spring break living in Wisconsin:

1. Lay out

You may have to put on some layers, but you can still catch some UV rays. Take advantage of any time in the sun you can get, and remember sunscreen!

2. Stick a pink umbrella in your drink

Ya know when you’re on a fancy, tropical vacation, and all of your drinks are served with an umbrella? Pretend you’re laying out on the beach, pour a cold glass of water, and stick a little umbrella in there. Voilà!

3. Wear a floral pattern

Get in that Hawaiian mood by putting on your floral shirt. Combine this with your pink umbrella drink, and you’ll be feeling more vacation-y than ever!

4. Grill out

Fry up some burgers, brats, hot dogs, or whatever floats your boat! Get in that spring break groove with the smell of freshly-charred meats.

5. Pretend your cold is just your allergies acting up

Winter is technically “over,” but your sickness might not agree with that. If you pretend your cold is just allergies, you’ll feel that spring break vibe more easily.

6. Break out your bathing suit, and go swimming (bathtub edition)

Spring break is supposed to be all about sunshine, warmth, vacations, and swimming. Break out those swimsuits, and take a dip…in your tub. Pretend you are on the beach getting your tan on. Play some of your favorite music to kick back and relax.

7. Watch your favorite show, or binge read your favorite book

We’re serious about this one. Take some time for yourself, and catch up on your favorite shows, books, or movies.

8. Take a nap

Another serious one here. After doing everything listed above, in addition to working, watching the kiddos, or spending time around your house, a nap can be the perfect remedy to ignite true relaxation. 

Name: Natalie Belknap

Hometown: Augusta, Wisconsin

Major: Nursing

Tell us about yourself and your journey to CVTC.

I grew up in Augusta and still live there with my family. I commute to CVTC for school and work. My family consists of my mom, dad, step-mom, and my two younger siblings, Noah and Sienna.

What made you choose this program? Did anyone or anything particular inspire you?

When I started at CVTC, I was a pre-program diagnostic medical sonography (DMS) student. While working toward my DMS degree, I began taking classes in the central service technician program. I found surgery interesting, so I thought it would be a good direction to take while on the waiting list. Recently, I have decided to pursue the nursing program here. I am working on taking some pre-program classes and take my HESI exam soon. I know I am where I should be (finally)!

What do you want to be when you grow up? Plans after school?

When I graduate, I want to be an RN (registered nurse) and work in labor and delivery. What I want to be most when I “grow up” is a mom! I am really excited to start my own family someday.

How did you choose CVTC? What helps/helped you be successful?

I chose CVTC after having a miserable three semesters at UW-Eau Claire. I finally realized I wasn’t where I wanted to be and transferred to CVTC. My mom was a huge factor in my decision to transfer and was very supportive.

What are you looking forward to most about starting classes/enjoy about current classes?

I am looking forward to my phlebotomy class this semester! My mom took phlebotomy as a medical assistant student here and absolutely loved it. I’m hoping that I enjoy the class as much as she did. I also love my steady, day-to-day schedule during the semester.

What do you enjoy doing outside of class?

Outside of class, my favorite thing to do is read. I have a very impressive collection of books, and I fly right through them. I recently read the “Crazy Rich Asians” book series and will definitely read them again. I did see the movie, and I was impressed by it, but the book is better. Books are always better! Other than reading, I like to spend time outside when it’s warm. I also spend time working as a SOAR (Student Outreach and Retention) student worker in Student Central. My favorite part of my job is helping out with orientation and registration events on campus.

Share some cool facts with us (Hobbies? Interests? Fun Fact about you?)

Some fun facts about me:

I am into essential oils, and use them every day!

My kitten’s name is Chipp, and he is a rescue.

If I could travel anywhere in the world, I would go to Greece.

I love kayaking in the summer with my boyfriend.

Name: Laura Naumann

Hometown: Sleepy Eye, Minnesota

Major: Digital Marketing

Tell us about yourself and your journey at CVTC.

I moved to Eau Claire from Sleepy Eye, Minnesota when I was 11 years old and attended Immanuel Lutheran High School in Eau Claire. I have been a student at CVTC since January of 2018 in the digital marketing program, am getting ready to graduate this December. I was a student at UW- Eau Claire for one year, majoring in their graphic design program, but I decided to transfer to CVTC for the cheaper cost of tuition and to graduate sooner.

What has allowed you to be successful at CVTC? What are your plans after school?

My program focuses on real-life application and the class work is hands-on, relating to what we will need to know in the real world. I have fun in my program too, which is a plus! After graduation, I hope to find a job where I can express my creative side. This summer, I was accepted for an internship at Security Financial Bank, and would love to continue my career there if an opportunity was presented.

What do you enjoy doing outside of class?

Outside of class and my internship, I work as a SOAR (Student Outreach and Retention) student in Student Central. In my free time, I love exploring Eau Claire! I like anything that involves water: kayaking, fishing, tubing, and boating. On Saturdays, my favorite place to go is the Rice Palace for their one dollar egg rolls. I also like baking cookies.

I am looking forward to my wedding in August. My fiancé, Tim, and I have been together for four and a half years, since we were 16 years old! We were also neighbors for a little while. We got engaged January 2 of this year. After our wedding, we plan to honeymoon in Wyoming to go camping, hiking, horseback riding, and trout fishing.

Share some cool facts with us.

I have an orange tabby cat named Juno; she only weighs 6 pounds.

I have four siblings: three brothers and one sister.

I have a fear of hippos.

My favorite show is Parks and Recreation.

By: Kayla O’Leary

This month, we are happy to introduce a passionate, down to earth, and positive student! Please give a warm welcome to March’s Super Student, Rachel Heiden!

Rachel started attending CVTC in the spring of 2018 after transferring from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She hopes to begin the nursing program in the fall of 2019. Once she starts the core nursing program, she will have two years left.

One of Rachel’s passions is working with and caring for children. She has worked with kids since she was ten years old and found it was something that had a huge influence on what career she wanted to pursue. She knew that she wanted a career that involved children, and is hoping to be an OB (obstetrics) nurse for labor and delivery. If that doesn’t work out, a pediatric nurse would be her second choice.

Rachel told us that the smaller class sizes have played a large role in her success at CVTC. The instructors have been important influences in helping her get where she is today. She feels the instructors truly care about each student, which makes a big difference when getting a good education. In addition to her instructors, the tutors and staff in Academic Services have supported Rachel since she first started at CVTC. She enjoys how beautiful the campus is, and the people here make it that much better!

Originally from Edgar, Wisconsin, Rachel is very close with her family. She loves spending time with her siblings, parents, boyfriend, and friends. Rachel works three part-time jobs. One in Edgar, at a daycare, and two in Eau Claire, as a peer tutor in Academic Services and as a nanny. Rachel isn’t sure where she will end up after graduation, but ideally she would like to stay close to her family and friends. Rachel also likes to support her brother by watching him compete for the Stratford High School wrestling team. She is very proud of him and often makes it home to support him. She even drove three hours in a snow storm to make it to a wresting meet-- now that’s love! From time to time, Rachel and her mom will road trip to Concordia University to see Rachel’s sister, who can’t travel home often.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys many activities. She likes attending Cru, bible study, and discipleship. Her faith is very important to her. She told us, “being able to trust God and enjoy every little blessing is something that makes life that much greater.”

Fun Facts:

Rachel’s hobbies include singing and photography.

Elephants are her favorite animal.

Rachel is the most indecisive person in the world.

She LOVES traveling, especially to places with warm weather.

Rachel wrestled from 5th to 8th grade and took first place at state in 8th grade!

By: Kayla O’Leary

February is the month of love, and this month’s Super Student loves food, her dogs, and living life to the fullest. Introducing Jana Mattison!

Jana is now in her third semester here at CVTC. After her first semester, she decided the business management program would be a good fit for her. Jana has two semesters left and is projected to graduate in May of 2020. She has enjoyed her instructors and believes they have been part of her success at CVTC. The mentors for Student Government have also been a big help to Jana during her time in school.

Jana is originally from Chippewa Falls, where she still resides with her family. She decided to come to CVTC after spending a semester in Winona where she found herself wanting to be closer to home and to go to a more cost-effective school.

In Jana’s free time, she likes doing CrossFit and yoga, spending time with her three dogs, hanging out with her boyfriend, and eating. Her favorite spots in Eau Claire are Latitude 44, Fit Elite, and Altoona Family Restaurant (where she likes the breakfasts on weekends). On top of school, Jana works three part time jobs. You can catch her working at the IT Service Desk, Student Government in Student Life, and Menards (she’s basically everywhere). Jana is saving money to travel abroad to Spain in May. She is very excited to learn more about herself and about other cultures. While in Spain, Jana will be turning 20 years old! Happy early, early birthday (we said it first)!

We asked Jana where she was planning to go after graduation, and she told us, “into the world.” While there is not a set plan yet, she knows she will figure everything out along the way. She has even considered possibly continuing her education in the Eau Claire area.

FUN FACTS:

Jana’s favorite food (which she eats too much of and probably shouldn’t) is kettle corn!

Coffee is a must! Cinnabon flavor is the best.

Her middle name is Echo, after her great grandmother.

On Jana’s 18th birthday, she got two tattoos and pierced her nose!

Jana has always had a goofy and fun personality.