By: Jonathan Martinez, Editorial Intern, UW-Green Bay Marketing and University Communication. Photos by Dan Moore, University Photographer
Editor’s Note: We asked Jonathan Martinez, an editorial intern in the Office of Marketing and University Communications, to share his experience transferring to UW–Green Bay. In his own words, Jonathan reflects on the people, places and opportunities that shaped his journey and what it means to him to “Phoenix his degree.”
Working five consecutive summers at Bay Beach Amusement Park wasn’t just a job—it was a turning point. The sound of laughter as guests plunged down The Zippin Pippin’s first drop, and the joy on their faces, became the backdrop of my formative years. As I secured lap bars and fastened seatbelts, I began to realize something deeper: I wasn’t just helping people enjoy their day—I was learning how to connect, communicate and care.
Those summers sparked more than a work ethic; they ignited a curiosity about people and their stories. I saw how joy could transcend backgrounds; how shared experiences could unite strangers. That early exposure to human connection fresh out of high school laid the foundation for my passion for storytelling. It was this sense of purpose, paired with the belonging I felt in Green Bay, that led me to pursue higher education—not just to earn a degree, but to find my voice and use it to make a difference.
Why UW–Green Bay Was the Right Fit
That realization hit with urgency, propelling me toward a new direction—chasing not only the next big story but also the next big step in my journey. The experiences I gained at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College and the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh helped me transform my newfound passion into a career in journalism. When I arrived at UW–Green Bay, I found it to be a place where I could reach new heights, inspire meaningful change and grow in ways I never expected.
This sense of belonging wasn’t just about geography—it was rooted in purpose. My passion for storytelling, shaped by years of listening and observing, became the compass that guided my academic journey. To me, telling a story is not merely about sharing events; it’s about encouraging critical thinking, promoting social change and uniting opposing ideals.
While earlier institutions helped me build foundational skills, they often lacked the interdisciplinary focus and community-driven environment I craved. I sought an academic environment that valued these principles and UW–Green Bay stood out. Its commitment to interdisciplinary learning and community engagement aligned perfectly with my desire to use narrative as a tool for impact.
With those values in mind, I sought a university that would nurture both my curiosity and my voice—and UW–Green Bay became that place. From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed into a community that values student voices and encourages self-expression. Studying Communication with a journalism emphasis gave me the space to share ideas, connect with others and grow as both a communicator and a person.
Through student publications investigating the community I grew up in, classroom discussions on collaboration and community outreach, I found platforms to tell impactful stories about the Green Bay community. Each experience reinforced my belief that storytelling is a powerful tool for change. Green Bay didn’t just support my academic journey—it amplified my voice and helped me discover my purpose.
Mentorship and Meaningful Connections
Bao Sengkhammee, my academic advisor, made the transfer process stress-free and easy to understand. Her guidance helped me navigate course selections and degree requirements with confidence. Guided by supportive mentors and meaningful coursework, I began to see UW–Green Bay as more than a steppingstone—it was a community where I could truly grow. I’ve had the privilege of learning from renowned faculty such as UW-Green Bay Associate Professor for Public & Environmental Affairs, Marcelo Cruz, whose insights expanded my understanding of urban development and environmental issues.
The faculty continuously challenged my worldview, sparking critical thinking and a passion for meaningful discussion. These interactions and mentorship opportunities reinforced my understanding of society and brought in new perspectives surrounding storytelling and the ability to inspire change.
That growth took on new dimensions during the 2025 January term, when I stepped beyond the classroom and into a world of global learning. I traveled to Ecuador for two weeks to study ecological niches across the Andes and Amazonian Basin, explore urban development and examine environmental and social issues in a rapidly changing landscape. Immersed in the Ecuadorian geopolitical scene, I found myself comparing ways of life to those back home. I learned that addressing today’s challenges requires a multifaceted approach—solutions don’t come from one expert alone, but from the collaboration of many.
I was presented with a unique opportunity to connect with freelance journalist Kimberley Michelle Brown, who is based in Ecuador and specializes in reporting on environmental and social issues in Latin America. During our conversation, she generously shared her insights into the challenges of journalism in a global context—emphasizing the importance of cultural sensitivity, ethical storytelling and amplifying underrepresented voices. Her perspective helped me understand how journalism can serve as a bridge between communities, and how narratives shaped by lived experience can drive meaningful change. This exchange not only deepened my appreciation for international reporting but also reinforced my commitment to using storytelling as a tool for advocacy and connection.
A spirit of collaboration and connection is something UW–Green Bay truly thrives on. As a result, I’ve continued to contribute to conversations surrounding controversial issues, expand my civic engagement and grow with unlimited capacity—all thanks to the resources and support provided to me.
These experiences laid the groundwork for my next chapter, one that brings me even closer to the heart of storytelling. As I near the end of my academic studies, I’ve discovered a deeper meaning in what it means to graduate as a UW-Green Bay Phoenix, one that I hope others will embrace when continuing education and moving on to that next big step. Transferring to UW–Green Bay wasn’t just about changing schools—it was about finding a place that would push me to new heights and help me rise.
Graduating as a Phoenix: More Than a Degree
Graduating as a Phoenix isn’t just about crossing a stage—it’s about the journey that led there: one filled with discovery, collaboration and impact. It means stepping beyond the classroom—like traveling to Ecuador—and realizing that solutions come from collaboration, not isolation. It also means being part of a campus culture that thrives on diversity, dialogue, and civic engagement.
“Graduating also means stepping into the world with confidence and purpose—and to graduate as a Phoenix is to carry forward the spirit of Green Bay: resilient, curious and committed to making a difference.”
