Name: Jeffrey Hughes
Hometown: Madison
Major: Computer networking and information technology
Involvement at Stout: Veterans Club, vice president; Collegiate Cyber Defense Competition, team captain
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in earning your degree? Earning my associate degree in IT network security from Madison College got me started on my journey to UW-Stout. I initially pursued applied math and computer science as my major but decided to switch majors after two years, extending my graduation by two more years. It was discouraging at first, but personal conviction as well as support from family and friends helped me to overcome this obstacle and succeed in achieving my degree.
What will you appreciate most about your UW-Stout experience? My 10 years of service in the U.S. Navy took me to a lot of interesting places and taught me many things. I lived in Japan for six years and Virginia for three. One of the most important lessons I learned is that people are what make the difference in your experience. I really enjoyed meeting new people around campus. The students, faculty and staff are what make UW-Stout a great place to live and learn. Participating in student organizations and other groups on campus made me feel more connected to the UW-Stout community. I also enjoyed meeting and becoming friends with many of the local Menomonie population.
What’s next in your life? Currently seeking employment in the Menomonie/Eau Claire area, as well as the Madison area.
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Photo
Jeffrey Hughes, center, helps at a UW-Stout Veterans Club event.
