Jayson Coleman, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, reflected on his experiences and creative journey in an article published on April 28. Coleman said he chose UW-Eau Claire because the campus felt welcoming and offered a variety of opportunities for exploration and growth.
The story highlights how students can find diverse paths to express themselves through academics, extracurricular activities, and community involvement. The university is recognized for its strong commitment to supporting creativity and student engagement across disciplines.
Coleman described how his interests in writing, choir, theatre, and other creative pursuits shaped his college experience. “I’ve always been into creative stuff — writing, choir, theatre — it’s just always been part of me,” he said. He credited faculty members Dr. Heather Fielding and Kim Wellnitz for encouraging him to take on leadership roles: “I didn’t view myself as a leader… but they kept encouraging me. They kept opening doors.” Participation in organizations such as the Center for Writing Excellence (CWE) gave him confidence and purpose during his studies.
Coleman’s involvement included tutoring at the CWE for two years, singing in choir every semester, leading English Fest as president after helping rebuild it following quieter years, attending conferences like the International Writing Centers Association event in Cincinnati, Ohio, interning with the Chippewa Valley Writers Guild where he interviewed local authors and attended retreats, publishing works in NOTA (None of the Above), joining badminton club activities and intramural refereeing.
The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire supports programs like the Blugold Marching Band that is known throughout the Midwest for its active participation at various events according to the official website. The university also contributes to Wisconsin’s culture and economy through collaborations according to its official website, features a scenic campus shared with Mayo Clinic Health System according to its official website, has received national recognition for quality and affordability according to its official website, partners with major health systems such as Mayo Clinic Health System and Marshfield Clinic according to its official website, and focuses on developing critical-thinking skills while preparing students for careers that contribute meaningfully to their communities according to its official website.
Looking ahead after graduation, Coleman plans to move to a larger city such as Minneapolis or Indianapolis but remains open about where storytelling might take him next: “There’s a lot more open for English majors than people think. I’m just going to see where things go.”
