Chippewa Valley Times

Jeremiah Coey, a former high school dropout, is set to graduate from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire with a degree in professional studies. This major, introduced recently, aims to assist students who have earned an associate degree or significant college credits to complete their bachelor's degrees.

Coey shared his journey from being told he was not responsible enough for college to becoming the first in his family to graduate. "I am a college graduate and I can do anything that I put my mind to in my career," he said.

Nichole Miller, academic advising manager at UW-Eau Claire, highlighted Coey's achievement as a testament to the professional studies major's value. The program was developed with support from UW-Eau Claire’s $9.4 million Workforce Innovation Grant from Wisconsin. "For him, to be able to culminate this incredibly long journey into something meaningful and legitimate...is a breath of fresh air for him," Miller commented.

Coey recounted his struggles with absenteeism and poor grades during high school before being diagnosed with ADHD and bipolar disorder. After dropping out, he worked various jobs for eight years until encouraged by his family and staff at Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) to pursue higher education.

Initially skeptical about attending college due to his background as a dropout, Coey eventually enrolled at UW-Eau Claire in 2020. He started studying social work before switching majors twice, ultimately landing on liberal studies. Financial constraints almost forced him out of college in spring 2024 until Miller assisted him in transitioning into the professional studies major.

"I like the interdisciplinary aspects of the program," Coey said regarding his new major. Miller expressed admiration for Coey's perseverance throughout his educational journey.

Post-graduation plans include moving to El Salvador where Coey will marry his fiancé and engage in community development work after improving his Spanish skills and obtaining a work permit.

The professional studies major has proven more popular than anticipated since its approval by the UW System Board of Regents earlier this year. Initially expecting eight students this year and 12 graduates within five years, over 50 students are now enrolled with nine graduating this December alone.

"These are stories of people who have just been trying to finish their degree," Miller stated about those pursuing completion through this program.