Some high school seniors can’t wait to leave chasing the excitement of faraway campuses, new cities, and a fresh start. But for others, the biggest discoveries aren’t found in distant places – they’re right at home, waiting to be recognized.

For Alivia Visger, a first-year student at the University of Wisconsin–Superior, staying in her hometown proved to be the perfect fit – both academically and personally.

A Change in Perspective

“My perspective on UWS actually changed as I was growing up in Superior,” Visger explained. “When I was younger and in middle school, I thought, ‘Oh, I’m going to get out of town. I don’t want to stay close to home for college.’ But by my junior year of high school, when I really started considering my options, I realized, ‘Oh my God, UWS is a great school.’ I decided to give it a serious look before just writing it off and choosing to leave town.”

Despite being in the top five percent of her class and accepted to several universities, Visger felt confident in her decision. UW–Superior stood out – not just for its academic offerings, but for how it aligned with her goals and values.

A Familiar Campus Becomes a Home

A 2025 graduate of Superior High School – located just across the street from the UW–Superior campus – Visger was already familiar with the university. As a hockey player for her Spartan team, she frequently visited Wessman Arena to cheer on both the Spartan boys’ team and the Yellowjackets.

Her connection to campus deepened through her involvement with UW–Superior’s Upward Bound program, a college-prep program that gave her a taste of college life while still in high school.

“I stayed in the residence halls for six weeks and had classes in Swenson Hall,” she said. “Upward Bound really prepared me for college life. I got to experience what college classes were like and learned how to communicate better with advisors and professors.”

That early exposure also helped Visger gain confidence in reaching out for help – a skill she knows will be essential as she begins her college journey.

Driven by Passion for the Outdoors

Now a Swenson Scholarship recipient covering full tuition, Visger plans to major in environmental science and biology.

“I’ve loved animals and the outdoors ever since I was young,” she said. “My parents always told me to go outside and have fun. I really enjoy fishing and hunting, and I decided on environmental science and biology because I want to help protect the environment and the places where I grew up.”

Involvement On and Off the Track

Outside the classroom, Visger plans to stay active – both athletically and in student life. She’ll be a member of the Yellowjackets’ track and field team, and she hopes to join Model United Nations and get involved with Campus Recreation to help others enjoy the outdoors as much as she does.

In the end, Alivia Visger didn’t have to go far to find a place that challenged her, inspired her and felt like home. Sometimes, the best journey is the one that leads you back to where you started – with a new sense of purpose.