Neil Biswas

Age: 18

Hometown: Wausau

High school attended: Wausau East High School

Current program or major: Nutritional science

Question: Why did you choose UW-Stevens Point at Wausau?

Answer: As a high school senior, I was able to take classes here as part of a special program. I ended up liking the school’s community, professors and classes. I realized I could get the same number of credits as at a bigger school, like UW-Madison, but for a more affordable price while living at home.

Q: What surprised you the most when you arrived on campus?

A: I was able to easily get help from professors during their office hours or after classes. They were very accessible and accommodating. I also made a lot of new friends from our crosstown rival, Wausau West High School, which I did not expect.

Q: Why did you choose your program/major?

A: I chose nutritional science because it includes courses more relevant to the medical field, which I have an interest in. I also want to know more about the production and nutritional value of food.

Q: What are you learning about your career field that you find interesting or rewarding?

A: I am taking more general science classes like zoology, botany and organic chemistry. There is so much more to understanding life than I realized.

Q: In addition to being a college student, what takes up your free time?

A: I work part time as a clinical nursing assistant in the rehabilitation department at Aspirus Wausau Hospital and volunteer at Ascension Saint Clare’s Hospital. For fun, I like to electro swing dance, socialize with friends and play tennis and video games.

Q: Who has been your favorite professor or staff member?

I have two favorite professors, Penny Workman in chemistry and Paul Whitaker in biology. If you put in the effort and time, they will give you everything you need to succeed in their classes. They are very approachable and helpful when answering questions.

Q: What do you plan to do after UW-Stevens Point at Wausau?

A: As of now, I plan to transfer to UW-Madison in the fall.

Q: What advice do you have for incoming students?

A: Don’t skip classes and get help when you need it. Get to know other people, too, and you will have a much better time.

Published with permission from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Photo courtesy UWSP.