Name: Michaela Guerrini
Hometown: Menasha
Major: Technology education
Involvement: McNair Scholars Program member, TRIO Student Support Services peer mentor
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced in earning your degree? Female in the technology education field; a woman in a male majority occupation; from a low-income upbringing; a first-generation high school and college student; a McNair student — all these statements are how I identify myself as an individual and challenges I have faced while obtaining my degree. These identities and challenges have also led me on the path to my long-standing dedication toward increasing the female bodies in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as well as improving the equity and diversity within STEM occupations.
What will you appreciate most about your UW-Stout experience? Every friendship, mentorship and relationship I gained or lost during my time at Stout I shall cherish for the rest of my life. I had worked for TRIO Student Support Services as a peer mentor (SSS serves students from first-generation and low-income backgrounds as well as students with disabilities), Fostering Success (foster youth) and University Housing and have been on panels for Women in STEM and part of the McNair Scholars program. I have been able to surround myself with amazing people, who I get to watch flourish as we continue our growth in the world.
What’s next in your life? I will be continuing my growth in education by going to the University of Minnesota to get a Master of Education in adult education. I am moving to Red Wing, Minn., with my partner and rabbit, Patches, into our first house!
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