Learner stories

Discover how Dr. Kristin O’Dell used the UW–Madison Professional Coach program to overcome physician burnout and foster a culture of wellness in health care.

A 3-week study abroad program in the Dominican Republic shaped a UW–Madison student’s plans to become a bilingual elementary school teacher.

See inspiring stories of people going back to school as adults and learn how adult student scholarships can help you earn your degree later in life.

See how student athletes are using summer courses at UW-Madison to stay on track academically and enjoy life in Madison during the summer.

Explore Alina’s journey at UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege, where forensic science, independence and friendships have helped prepare her for future success.

Make your UW–Madison Summer Term count with hands‑on learning, internships, research and global experiences rooted in the Wisconsin Idea.

Discover the inspiring journeys of UW–Madison’s 2026 Outstanding Undergraduate Returning Adult Student Award winners, Leslie Wright and Michael Rozier.

Supporting others with empathy and evidence‑based skills, two behavioral health professionals grow through UW–Madison’s Continuing Education courses.

Badger Precollege launched UW–Madison senior Nathan Wagner’s journey from early STEM curiosity to physics research, college success and the Astronaut Scholarship.

Badger Ready helped Alex Smith finish his UW-Madison degree, continuing the lifelong learning vision of his grandfather, Howard Martin.

Marge Engelman (98): Lifelong learner, barrier-breaking administrator, & fiber artist defied expectations to champion nontraditional students.

First-gen student Manny Avila’s inspiring journey from UW–Madison Online graduate to senior treasury analyst at Zendesk. Learn how his BBA launched a global career and boosted his confidence.

Graduate student Jinghao Zhou leads innovative research at the UW–Madison School of Nursing, applying information skills to improve public health.

The influence of the First Nations is all around us on UW–Madison’s campus. You can learn about these and other landmarks on the First Nations Cultural Landscape Tour, an educational exploration of the history and culture of First Nations at UW–Madison, led by trained students, faculty and staff. 

Boost your career! UW–Madison online grad Kristy shares how her bachelor’s degree increased her confidence & opened new job opportunities.

Two UW–Madison undergrads share their summer research stories, showcasing hands-on learning and innovative projects, and how they’re making an impact.

Isadora Collins is seizing every opportunity Summer Term has to offer. Between a full-time internship, an online course, international travel and volunteer work, she’s packing her summer with experiences that blend learning, career growth and fun.

We’re proud to celebrate 36 graduates of UW–Madison Online who pushed through challenges, stayed the course and earned their bachelor’s degrees this spring and summer.