University Communications and Marketing

Kate Knight has long had a passion for writing and a willingness to work hard. That, coupled with strong planning and organizational skills, has helped her complete a bachelor’s degree in less time than many students. She is graduating Dec. 13 after 3½ years at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

 

“Ever since middle school, I knew where my passion was, that is to write,” said Knight, who majored in communication.

 

In Knight’s first semester of college, Division of Communication Chair Rhonda Sprague had students chart the courses they would need to take each semester. Knight saw the possibility of graduating in 3½ years if she stayed focused and took 18 credits a few semesters.

 

“I realized if I worked really hard and took a full load, I could do it.” She took one Winterim course between semesters in January.

 

She also earned a few college-level humanities credits by taking several Advanced Placement, or AP, courses at Medford High School. She tested out of French and math, which gave her a jumpstart – and saved on college costs. “Take AP courses if you can.  It’s a class you may not have to take – or pay for – later,” Knight said.

 

And she received the maximum number of internship credits.

 

Knight had seven internships since the summer of 2013: She worked in communications, social media, writing or event planning at Skyward, Inc., Wisconsin Rapids mayor’s office, Arts Alliance of Portage County, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, Ministry Health Care-Saint Michael’s Hospital Foundation, Portage County Gazette and The Daily Quirk Blog. She also worked several jobs on campus and as a claims technician at Sentry Insurance.

 

“I wanted to get diverse experiences in a variety of areas,” she said. “In this major in particular, getting experience was so important.” 

 

Communication professors and speakers at the Public Relations Student Society of America encouraged internships. Knight is public relations director for PRSSA’s UW-Stevens Point chapter, managing social media.

 

“Kate is what a professor dreams of in a student -- engaged, interested, inquiring and committed to her college program of study,” said Andrew Stoner, assistant professor of communication at UW-Stevens Point.

 

Knight participates in class, and also seek input from others, Stoner said.  “She is a leader in class and on campus, and I know a lot of students are watching and listening to what she does and says for clues on how to be successful.”

 

Knight explored a few colleges, in Wisconsin and the East Coast, before choosing UW-Stevens Point. “Size was a factor. It was big enough to branch out and be your own person, but once you get involved, a lot of people know you.  It’s a nice mix that way.

 

“Everyone is so nice here. The atmosphere is welcoming,” she said. She worked as a campus tour guide one summer and told prospective students, “You will feel at home here.”

 

Her advice to new students: “Say ‘yes’ to things. It will open doors, if you’re willing to get out of your comfort zone.”  She also encourages them to learn early how to manage time and be organized.

 

Knight grew in many ways at UW-Stevens Point.  “I’m more open and outgoing. I’m more open-minded and accepting of other viewpoints. You get to meet so many people and make so many friends if you are open. You will really learn and be exposed to many opportunities here.” 

 

Like most people, she wasn’t comfortable speaking in front of groups. Unlike most people, she tackled this fear head-on. Now she lists strong presentation skills on her resume.

 

She is among 650 students who will graduate Saturday. Her immediate plans are to continue interning at Skyward where she started in November.

 

“I’m so excited to work, just to do one thing.  Wherever I work, I’m going to be the most dedicated employee because I’m so ready,” Knight said.