If you take a drive around Utica and spot one of the city’s many revitalization efforts, there’s a good chance Utica native Stephanie Wurz ’14 had a hand in making it come to fruition.
Wurz is currently a Senior Engineer for the City of Utica, having previously been a junior and assistant engineer.
She earned her B.A. in Civil Engineering Technology, while also playing for the Lady Wildcats’ soccer team. Juggling her academics, work life and athletics schedule yielded several important skills.
“Coordinating my work routine, while playing soccer, and on the fast track to early graduation, my college years put me to the test in terms of time management and accountability to accomplish responsibilities and through the Cayan Library and other tutoring resources, it heavily aided my success,” said Wurz.
She chose SUNY Poly because staying local was important to her while as she furthered her education.
Wurz was originally undeclared. Her first class was pre-calculus and she said it did not seem to challenge her abilities. So, after meeting with her academic advisor, engineering was a primary major that focused on problem solving skills, so she chose to give it a try. Ultimately, it was the perfect fit, equipping her with the tools needed to succeed in the workforce.
Overall, Wurz, who has returned to SUNY Poly to pursue a Bachelor’s in Psychology, speaks fondly of the atmosphere her alma mater provides.
“SUNY Poly is a local, affordable, and engaging atmosphere that allows students of all backgrounds to explore their interests while fulfilling the credits to receive a degree,” said Wurz. “Being a Wildcat, there is a family dynamic among athletes and many clubs to encourage engagement regardless of your interest.”
Wurz adds that by supporting a local university like SUNY Poly, “we increase the likelihood of keeping students where their roots have been established and create a foundation that nurtures their passions, which ultimately serves as the basis of our future here in Oneida County, from a professional and community standpoint.”