JANESVILLE — When Ezra Johnson came to Blackhawk, he realized he was behind in several areas. Growing up, Ezra was in special education classes through his graduation from Edgerton High School in 2009.
Initially struggling with low self-esteem when he started at BTC, Ezra’s self-confidence rose drastically and soon he found himself completing semesters with a 3.9/4.0 GPA.
“When I came to Blackhawk, I was way behind in several areas because I wasn’t taught the materials needed to be successful in college because no one thought I would ever go to college,” he said. “I have had to teach myself a lot of things.”
Ezra is in his third semester in the Human Services program, something he picked because of his passion to help others. With plans to graduate in May 2023, he wants to then attend UW-Whitewater at Rock County to work towards achieving a master’s degree in Human Services.
Ezra was led to Blackhawk for many different reasons, including a location close to where he lives as well as all the extra services the school provides to its students. He also has friends who recommended the school.
“I liked the idea of a smaller campus and class sizes,” he said.
“Honestly, I cannot think of a thing that I do not like about Blackhawk,” he said when asked what he likes most about Blackhawk. “The professors and staff take the time to get to know the students and truly care about their students.”
Megan Wisnowski, Student Engagement Specialist, said Ezra is a huge asset to both Student Engagement and the CARE Center.
“It seems like no matter what he is facing, Ezra always attacks the day with a positive attitude that easily spreads to those around him,” said Megan, who has worked with Ezra since last summer. “We are lucky to have him working with us in the CARE Center.”
Ezra says the most important thing he’s learned in his time at Blackhawk is that you’re never too old to go back to school. His advice for prospective students would be to take a tour and ask all the questions you might have.
“People actually care and encourage me to grow and also challenge me to think through things in a different way,” he said. “My advisor does a great job laying out the steps or classes I need to take.”
