Twenty-year-old Gabriel Wray is an impressive senior at UW-Milwaukee. Born in West Bend, Wisconsin, he decided to pursue a degree at UWM because of the combination of a large city and small community. It was the reputation of the esteemed programs and dedication to students that finalized his decision. Gabe felt that his Wisconsin pride was growing by being a part of UWM.

Gabe knew he wanted to connect people. The different array of classes that the communication department offers made the decision simple, and after taking three Communication classes in his first semester, he knew Communication was the right choice for both his major and his future career.

When asked about his favorite professors, Gabe answered, “the professors are more dedicated and excited to teach within this major than anywhere else I have experienced.” Some of his favorite instructors have been Ronnie Johnson and Evelyn Ang. They are both keynote speakers at an event Gabe is organizing, the Last Lecture Series 2017, in May: “They accepted the invitation without hesitation, showing how ready and happy they are to help out their students.”

Outside of the classroom, his favorite memories come from managing the Men’s & Women’s Swimming and Diving teams at UWM. He has been the manager for the last three years. Gabe is also the Vice President of Mortar Board National Senior Honors Society and a member of the University Community Orchestra, playing the violin. Not to mention, he is also a member of two additional Honor Societies: Lambda Pi Eta (the official Honors Society for the National Communication Association) and Phi Beta Kappa (the Nation’s Most Esteemed Honors Society). Gabe is currently pursuing a career in Communication or Public Relations, and is waiting to hear back from a few job opportunities.

When asked about his favorite part of Milwaukee, Gabe said, “[It] has a little bit of everything. The diversity of the people and the pride everyone holds for their city makes it unique, as well as our loyalty to our local businesses.” In his free time, Gabe composes his own music pieces. He’s interested in film, and often writes about his favorite films for assignments. Gabe also enjoys running, playing basketball, and swimming — in fact, he is part of an annual Triathlon team in Waupaca, WI. In the summer, he tries to spend his free time at concerts around Milwaukee, and up north at his family’s cottage near Rhinelander.

Gabe is graduating this August, finishing in just over three years, Magna Cum Laude with his BA in Communication and a Minor in JAMS, and an Honors degree. He was on the Dean’s List in Spring 2016 and Fall 2016, and he’s hoping to be on it again for Spring 2017. Gabe aspires to start his own PR or Communication Consulting Firm. We’re so excited to see where you go, Gabe!

By Jumana Al-Juma