Milwaukee native Michaela Bayerl has always wanted a career in professional sports. As a proud Wisconsin resident and life-long sports fan, her perfect job would be working as a marketing professional with the Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers, or the Green Bay Packers. Viterbo University in La Crosse is helping Michaela pursue her dreams. Michaela is a fi rst year marketing major with a minor in creative media and design.
“I chose Viterbo University because it is a small campus, and I like that you have more one-to-one interactions with the professors,” Michaela said. “The professors also are very
helpful and care for each student as if they have known them their entire lives. Viterbo University also stood out because of its excellent marketing program.”

In addition to the knowledge and skills Michaela is gaining, the college experience outside of the classroom has had a positive impact for her as well.

“Being in college, I have definitely stepped outside my comfort zone,” she said. “I would not have expected to have a college campus feel like a home and one big family. It has helped me feel like I can make a difference and succeed at anything I want to do.”

Michaela is the first member of her family to attend a four-year college. She is paying for college on her own, and the Wisconsin Grant and other financial aid has made her education possible.

“I am grateful to be where I am and to be able to build new memories and make new friends, as well as increase my knowledge and further my education,” she said.
When she isn’t busy studying or attending class, Michaela is employed as a work-study student on campus. She also works in Milwaukee during academic breaks. She is involved on campus, participating in the organizations Enactus and the Society of Human Resources Management. Enactus is a student organization that applies business concepts to everyday events in order to improve lives in La Crosse and beyond. Enactus members volunteer their time using entrepreneurial approaches to empower people in need through leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. Michaela even manages to fi nd time for some leisure activities, such as reading,
writing, and watching movies.

Michaela is an ambitious and hard working student who remains focused on her career and life goals.

“A college degree is more than just a piece of paper, but rather something to show your hard work and perseverance in making your dream a reality,” she said. “A degree will help me get the job I’ve always wanted. I hope my degree will show that, if I can do it, so can you.”