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EAU CLAIRE, Wis.- Aaron Kittson, a freshman print journalism student at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, is a natural learner with the West Coast on his mind. To say Aaron is a freshman is sort of true. Indeed he graduated from high school last year and this is his first year at college. Before he even started at UWEC he had 29.0 AP credits under his belt. That would officially make him a sophmore. Despite his great grades, Aaron doesn't put much effort into school. He soaks in all the knowledge in the classroom and doesn't bring schoolwork home with him. "I have a done with school, done with homework policy," said Kittson. Aaron grew up in Wausau, WI. He likes to complain about the small Midwestern city but admits it really is a great place to live. "It's a nice size city, with great schools and plenty of things to do," said Kittson. In high school Aaron got involved with the school newspaper. From the first article he wrote he knew he wanted a career in mass communication. Writing under deadline was a thrill for him. The race to produce the best story in little time is what he loves about journalism. Because of his attitude and skill he was appointed the editor of the school newspaper his senior year. The most memorable experience from high school were his trips to New York. For two summers in a row, he went to a weeklong journalism seminar at Columbia University. Working for the school newspaper didn't allow much free time. When he could manage to squeeze in some time for fun, he enjoyed playing tennis and poker with his friends. Aaron had a list of universities he considered attending. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire was a natural choice because both his parents are alumni of UWEC. Eau Claire is yet another small Midwestern city but Aaron has found it offers plenty. He is especially impressed with the level of political involvement here. Aaron was excited that Barack Obama came to speak on campus, but he missed the opportunity. The night before Obama came to campus, Aaron went to The Rocky Horror Picture Show. He went in full drag, as everyone traditionally does. He was so tired after the night he just fell asleep with makeup still on. In the morning when it was time to go see Obama, Aaron headed for the showers. Lo and behold there was no water in the dorms. He figured it wouldn't be the best choice to go to the campaign rally with a face full of makeup. Aaron has kept himself busy on campus. He has 18.0 credits this semester and a job in Career Services. Intake associate is his job title. He handles general office duties such as answering phones and making schedules. Aaron is also a Blugold Fellowship recipient. He is doing undergraduate research on The Constituion. There are big plans for his future. Along with his print journalism major, he has a double minor in psychology and global studies. Even with two minors Aaron will easily graduate in four years. After graduating from UWEC, he plans on getting his master's degree in public relations at either Columbia or Northwestern. When all his schooling is done he is headed for the West Coast. "I want to get out of the conservative Midwest," said Kittson. Aaron's goal is to move to San Francisco. The liberal atmosphere, culture and moderate weather are what entice him. His goal is to work for a large public relations firm. Print journalism is a passion of his but he realizes there isn't much money in that career. He will need a lot of money to be able to afford a vineyard he hopes to own one day. Aaron would like to learn about wine and become an amateur sommelier. Traveling is on his to do list also. Aaron would like to travel abroad and also explore the immediate areas in and around California. "It would be cool to take a day trip to the mountains or even just explore a different neighborhood in San Francisco," said Kittson. For now, Aaron is looking forward to summer and a respite from school. "It has been great to have a chance to experience the world without my parents leaning over my shoulders constantly," said Kittson. "However I am not a huge fan of the amount of out of class work college requires". He is headed home for the summer break to work and save up as much money as he can for next year's college tuition. He hopes to find a little time to have some fun with his friends. He will return next fall a little richer, rested and ready to take on college again. Aaron is a good natured guy with a bright future. |
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