When University of Wisconsin-Stout moved to an alternative learning method in March 2020 because of COVID-19, Erin O’Brien and Nathan Thompson left campus to finish their first years of college at home.
Having just completed their 2020-21 sophomore years, in which UW-Stout had about 50% in-person classes, they are reflecting on positive experiences but eagerly looking ahead. UW-Stout is planning for a normal fall semester to start the 2021-22 academic year, with in-person classes and activities.
Stout Scholar and third-generation student Nathan Thompson with his mom, Kirstin, and grandparents, Richard and Mary, in Harvey Hall. 
Nathan Thompson at the Stout Ministry.
“I am ecstatic to be attending live lectures and in-person events at Stout this fall. Hands-on learning is the reason I decided to enroll at UW-Stout, and I look forward to getting the most out of my education this year,” Thompson said.
Thompson, of Woodville, wants to apply his learning to projects that change lives. CLICK HERE FOR MORE OF THIS LOCAL STORY.
Erin O’Brien, center for the Blue Devils women’s basketball team, at practice. 
Stout Scholar Erin O’Brien outside the Memorial Student Center, spring 2021.
Erin O’Brien, of South Haven, MN. has always wanted to be a teacher. “My mother was a gym teacher and a community education director, so I practically grew up in my school,” she said. “I was fortunate to have some very influential teachers in my life.” CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HER STORY.
