UNIVERSITY of WISCONSIN-MADISON

Student stories

Two students present a lecture to a classroom at UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege.

Alina’s precollege experience: Academic growth and expanded friendships

Explore Alina’s journey at UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege, where forensic science, independence and friendships have helped prepare her for future success.

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Nathan Wagner writing on a chalkboard

How Badger Precollege helped launch a future physicist

Badger Precollege launched UW–Madison senior Nathan Wagner’s journey from early STEM curiosity to physics research, college success and the Astronaut Scholarship.

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Aerial shot of a student sitting on the grass, working on his laptop

International precollege programs build skills, confidence and connections

For high schoolers across the globe, studying in the U.S. may seem like a faraway dream. Thanks to the Wisconsin International Precollege Academy (WIPA), WIPA Online and other programs for international students through UW–Madison’s Badger Precollege, that dream feels closer than ever.

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Three high school students sit on the floor, smiling as they face their instructor, whose back is in the foreground. Students are wearing t-shirts and shorts.

Rising stars embrace creativity at Summer Arts Clinic

High school students Alexander and Rosemary share stories of transformation and insight from UW–Madison's week-long summer arts program.

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The four members of the Carlson-Colton family pose with a lake behind them in the distance.

A family affair

A Badger Precollege alum and his mom share their experiences with the program and the lasting lessons that have stayed with them.

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Nine international high school students pose in front of UW–Madison's Bascom Hall. A large banner of Bucky Badger is hanging behind the building's columns

International high school students thrive at EducationUSA Academy

Five international students shared what they like best about the program and how it has impacted their future education plans.

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Elliot Frank

Summer Music Clinic helps alum snare his place in UW Marching Band

Now a member of the UW Marching Band drumline, Elliott Frank says SMC helped him get comfortable with campus — and the audition process.

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A young woman with pink hair smiles as she points camera toward the viewer

Precollege students can cultivate creativity in these summer arts classes

Five arts instructors share what they're looking forward to teaching precollege students this summer — from music production and composition to photography and creative writing.

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Exterior shot of Bascom Hall

Badger Precollege grads find success as UW–Madison students

Badger Precollege helps students along their personal path to higher education, but don’t take our word for it. Below, a few of our former students — all of them now enrolled at the University of Wisconsin–Madison — share how Badger Precollege has helped them transition to life and learning in college.

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Nate Stampley

Broadway star found inspiration at Summer Music Clinic

Summer Music Clinic has inspired 90,000 students over 90 years.

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