Paul Steffens
Computer Networking Systems ’17
Monroe, WI
Growing up, Paul Steffens always had a knack for technology. In high school, Steffens and his friends would master video games and build computers. His love for science and the arts led him to Ripon College in Wisconsin, where he graduated with a degree in theatre.
Following graduation, Steffens became a professional actor, landing various acting and set construction jobs in Minnesota and Wisconsin. But the career brought a certain amount of emotional and financial instability to Steffens’ life, which led to his decision to go back to school.
During his search, Steffens was introduced to the College by Dunwoody Student Advisor Zac Mans, a fellow Ripon College alum. After taking a tour, talking with faculty, and learning more about the rigorous curriculum, Steffens decided to enroll in a field he has enjoyed since the very beginning: Computer Technology.
“My liberal arts degree was more steeped in theory,” Steffens said. “Here at Dunwoody, everything is so laser-focused on this hands-on experience. That was one of the biggest attractions of the college and the program itself for me.”
A prior interest in and knowledge of computers allowed Steffens to excel quickly his first year at Dunwoody. His second semester, he was inducted into the College’s Honor Society Phi Theta Kappa. In May of 2016, he accepted a position as a member of the IT Helpdesk in the Dunwoody IT department. Now in his final semester, Steffens is on track to graduate summa cum laude.
He is also the 2017 Academic Excellence Award recipient for the Computer Technology department.
“My drive to succeed has been significantly stronger this time around, in part due to the experiences I’ve had since graduating from Ripon” Steffens said. “Reflecting on where I am in my life, where I need to be going, and where I want to be going has really lit that fire.
“I set some very strong goals for myself coming into Dunwoody. I feel vindicated that all of the work I have been putting into my education—it’s nice to know that has paid off.”
Steffens is currently interviewing for jobs. He hopes his future career will be one that allows him to apply his presentation and theatrical skills to the technical skills he’s gained at Dunwoody.