W
isconsin senior Ryan Evans
has a different reading on
stress than others. To his
thinking, stress is not related to missing an open baseline jumper; nor missing a free throw.
That's just basketball.
He might be even inclined to call it the school
of hard knocks.
But it still doesn't compare to grad school.
"Very stressful," Evans said.
Armed with his undergraduate degree in
Life Science Communications, the 22-year-old
Evans just completed his first semester in the
UW's graduate program, which has moved him
a step closer to earning his master's in education leadership and policy analysis.
As far as a classroom scouting report, he said,
"I wouldn't say it has. It has been more competitive (than undergrad). I would say there's
a higher standard. You're expected to be ready
for every class. There's a discussion atmosphere. You're expected to know your readings
and research."
Evans could see himself using his communications degree in a sales field and maybe
running a non-profit in the inner city later in
life. His primary focus is education leadership.
"That's what I'm about," he said, "being a mentor for students and helping inspire and influence kids in any way I can."
Evans has already crafted a message for
youngsters that centers on resolve and a strong
inner belief. "Set your expectations high and
have a high work ethic," he instructed. "Anything they want to do can be accomplished if
they really believe in their heart that they can
do it."
He cited a personal example.
"Many people told me I would never be a Division I basketball player," he said.
Evans was cut from his high school team
when he was a sophomore.
Undaunted, he transferred to another school
in the Phoenix area – Hamilton High School
– and posted modest numbers (8 points, 4 re42 » VARSITY
JANUA RY 3, 2013
