"When I found out I received a scholarship, my decision to attend Wayne State was solidified"
If Victoria Nowinski had just one word to describe her experience at Wayne State University it would be thankful. A second-generation Wayne State student in the College of Education, Tori is following in her alumni parents' footsteps. Growing up, there was no question in her mind that Wayne State would provide the best environment to help her reach her educational goals.
Below Tori shares what she loves best about Wayne State and her gratitude for the support she has received.
Why did you decide to come to WSU?
I chose to come to Wayne State because I really felt like I would belong here. Both my parents are alumni of Wayne State and three of my cousins attend the university. I grew up being told that Wayne State is a great place, and I always knew that I would come here. I really appreciate the opportunity to attend a school so close to home because family is important to me. I live at home where I can watch my three younger brothers grow up; therefore, I commute to the university.
How did financial aid factor into your decision?
When I found out I received a scholarship as a result of my hard work in high school, my decision to attend Wayne State was solidified. Since then, I have worked hard to maintain my grades and have received several scholarships to help with tuition. I rely on student loans, scholarships, grants and my income from three or four seasonal jobs to be able to attend school. I work at the Mount Clemens Family YMCA, and run my own swim camp in the summer in the city of Fraser, as well as coach the Warren Woods Varsity Swim Team.
What year are you in and what is your major?
I am a 4th year student, with two and a half years to go, in the College of Education, working toward a secondary education degree with a major in biology and a minor in health.
What do you like best about Wayne State?
Wayne State's cultural diversity is exciting to me. It is fun to see people from many cultures working together to become professionals and make the world a better place. I also truly appreciate the many opportunities for success at the university. There is a lot of support for me to reach my educational goals. For example, physics professor Elizabeth Atems spent much time helping me understand the concepts of physics, a subject I struggle to comprehend. I never would have imagined that I would receive an A in physics, but I did, thanks to this wonderful teacher.
What is your favorite class?
Steve Singleton was a health teacher of mine, and every time I went to his class, I thought to myself, I should just tape these lectures, because there is so much beneficial information. This man is bursting with information. He had the best lectures, and I enjoyed his health class so much, I signed up for another one the following semester. He spent a lot of time answering questions after class. He truly is a great teacher.
Are you involved in any student groups?
I am happy to serve the College of Education as a student ambassador. I was part of the small founding group and now there are about 30 of us. We help students find their way around the college, answer questions, do recruitment calls and assist at graduation ceremonies. I have mostly helped at the college's alumni banquets, honoring alumni who donate money for the scholarship funds. I was the speaker last year and a greeter and entertainer this year.
What do you like to do in your free time?
I love to spend quality time with my family and friends. I have a wonderful fiancé whom I've been dating since 2009. I also enjoy exercising, photography and scrapbooking.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I hope to live in Macomb County and work in secondary education in a school district with strong leaders who will help me further my teaching abilities. As an educator, my goal will be to instill both knowledge and inspiration in my students' lives, and provide teenagers with a supportive environment that encourages creativity and community involvement. I also hope to raise a family of my own.
For many students at Wayne State University, a scholarship is an important step to earning a degree and pursuing a productive and fulfilling life. Donor-funded scholarships do more than provide the means to attend college. Scholarships give students a sense of pride and a feeling of support as they work toward their academic and professional goals.