“During my time at Wittenberg, I have been blessed to have professors who have had a profound influence on me and have made a lasting impact on my life. I have been supported in achieving my academic goals by professors whose student-centered approach is fueled by their passion for their area of expertise, coupled with their compassion for and commitment to their students. They invested in me and believed in me, which enabled me to discover my own gifts in order to be the best possible version of myself.”

Cari Matchett, of River Falls, Wis., came to Wittenberg with a passion for life that made studying biology a natural choice.

“Science has always been a passion of mine. In high school, I traveled to the Amazon and had the opportunity to visit a health clinic opened by a Wisconsin native who has devoted her life to improving the heath care of the surrounding communities.  Her work in Peru gave me an inspirational push to pursue a career in the science field.  Traveling to the Amazon left a lasting impression, and that trip bolstered my curiosity and inspired my desire to travel to other continents.  The summer after my freshman year at Witt, I participated in the service-learning trip to Lesotho, Africa, and then made the decision to pursue a minor in African Studies.”

As a leader in community service and through the support of professors from a variety of departments, including education, Matchett has found another adventure to undertake after Commencement.

“I have accepted a position with KIPP (Knowledge is Power Program) Academy, which is national network of innovative public charter schools. I will be serving as the assistant to the Executive Director, working in educational policy and reform in Columbus.”

Her guidance for future students: be prepared to follow your passion.

“Wittenberg challenges students both inside and outside of the classroom. It is a place you can find a balance between intense learning and spontaneous, eclectic fun. Students here are committed to learning broadly, across the curriculum, and are energized by their individual interests and passions. Wittenberg is a place where you can enable your future.”