Chrissy Pientok

Hometown:
Independence, Wisconsin

Degree:
Management and Human Resources

Independence. It's the name of Chrissy Pientok's hometown in northwest Wisconsin. It also is one of the traits that defines her. The recipient of the Jill and Thomas Hartman Family Great People Scholarship is a first-generation college student in the School of Business majoring in management and human resources.

Not only does Pientok teach group fitness at the Southeast Recreation Facility, she has a second job in the Office of Admissions in addition to her full credit load. She has financed her education with loans and scholarships plus part-time work of 15-20 hours per week. "I could graduate in May, but I am taking Portuguese and want to study in Brazil and also get my certificate in Health Care Management Specialization. I plan to work in corporate wellness, but my dream is to own or manage my own fitness studio."

Pientok is especially grateful for the help her Great People Scholarship is providing. "It's overwhelming and exciting," she said. "There are so many opportunities here on campus and in the community. Now I have the security to take advantage of them."