Student Spotlight - Sky Stensrud
Equipped with an aptitude for linguistics and a passion for teaching, Sky Stensrud came to EvCC as a non-traditional first-generation student. Financial aid and geography were the primary reasons Sky chose EvCC, but they also add, “Looking back, I wouldn’t have chosen any other school.” Sky encourages new students, “Engage outside of classes. It truly makes the community college experience so much better and more well-rounded.”
Tell us a little bit about yourself, including the degree or certificate you earned at EvCC.
I’m a non-traditional, first-generation student. I’m Cherokee-American, Autistic, and LGBTQ+. I am married, and just graduated EvCC with my Associate in Arts and Sciences Direct Transfer.
Why did you choose EvCC?
Initially, I chose EvCC because it was close to my home in North Everett, and financial aid made it possible for me to attend here. Looking back, I wouldn’t have chosen any other school, even if I lived closer to that school than EvCC.
What’s next for you after graduation?
After graduation, I’m off to Western Washington University in Bellingham to complete my Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Linguistics, so that I can teach languages and linguistics at a community college.
What inspired you to pursue your area of interest?
I’ve always been talented and skilled when it comes to learning and speaking different languages, as well as passionate about teaching and sharing my knowledge.
How are the skills you learned at EvCC helping you reach your goals?
The skills I’ve learned at EvCC are helping me reach my goals by enabling me to think critically and empathize with others.
What is one of the best experiences you had at EvCC?
I think one of my best experiences at EvCC was working on the Trojan Activities Board in Student LIFE. Shoutout to the 24-25 TAB Team!
Who helped you succeed, and how?
Lots of people helped me succeed. From helpful instructors who went above and beyond to make sure my disabilities did not impact me negatively in class, to advisors, coworkers, classmates, and most especially, my husband. All of these people supported me in different ways to make sure I was and am successful.
What advice would you give to new students?
Engage outside of classes. It truly makes the community college experience so much better and more well-rounded.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
Live your best life, love those around you, and be kind to yourself, to your fellow humans and to the earth, and all the living things we share this planet with.
EvCC Foundation Scholarship: How did your scholarship support your education?
I received the Bill Deller Memorial Scholarship through the EvCC Foundation, and it really helped to make sure my living expenses were paid, that I had clean, undamaged clothes, and that I had the textbooks and supplies I needed for my classes.
TRiO Student Support Services: How did TRiO help you?
TRiO was incredibly helpful to me in planning out my classes every quarter and making sure I didn’t take any unnecessary classes, which, in turn, enabled me to complete my degree in only 6 quarters. Another aspect of TRiO that was helpful was the neurodivergent coaching sessions I had with my TRiO Advisor.