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Matt Stoyke’s Journey: Balancing Life and Learning on his Path to Financial Services
April 22, 2025
For Matt Stoyke, returning to college wasn’t just about earning a degree — it was about creating stability, opportunity and growth for his family and community. As a Financial Services student at Northwood Technical College, Stoyke is living proof of how education can transform lives, one step at a time.
Expecting to graduate in Winter 2027, Stoyke originally attended Northwood Tech years ago and was enrolled in the auto collision program. But life — and perspective —shifted. “I realized my interests were more in the finance world,” he said. “Now, I’m learning what truly interests me.”
Stoyke has a full plate —balancing full-time work, sharing parenting duties, being in school part time, and serving as the secretary/treasurer for the Birchwood Fire Department. Yet, he’s managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA.
“I’m most proud of being able to balance everything while staying focused on my education,” he said. “It hasn’t been easy, but I know this journey is going to make a lasting impact.”
Matt Stoyke is a student enrolled in the Financial Services program at Northwood Tech.
That belief aligns with Northwood Tech’s vision of Transforming Communities and reflects a narrative of the experiences many Northwood Tech students face while trying to pursue their dreams and move forward in ways that help not only themselves but make a difference in their communities.
For Stoyke, the uncertainty of the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic lead him to rethink his future. “I realized I needed a degree to fall back on if the economy took a downturn,” he said. “I was fortunate to keep my job, but I wanted to be better prepared to support my family.”
Finding a way to balance school with his other responsibilities seemed challenging, but the flexibility and support at Northwood Tech made it possible. “The ability to attend online is the only reason I’m able to further my education,” Stoyke explained. “The faculty and staff at Northwood Tech have had a huge impact on me.”
One instructor in particular helped light the way for Stoyke.
“I want to shout out Hugh Harris for encouraging me to pursue this degree,” he said. “He’s been such a positive influence and a steady guide. Northwood Tech is a better place because of him.”
Looking ahead, Stoyke says he’s most excited to earn his degree—and maybe enjoy a little free time again.
“I look forward to having my evenings back,” he joked. “But more than that, I’m excited to understand the financial market better, and to be able to apply that knowledge to help others.”
Whether it’s through his professional goals or his continued community involvement, Stoyke knows the value of education extends far beyond the classroom.
“Knowledge really is power,” he said. “And what I’m learning now will help me improve not just my own life, but the lives of those around me.”
If Matt Stoyke’s story inspired you, contact your local Northwood Tech campus for information about the Financial Services program or one of the more than 100 programs, technical diplomas, and certificates that our college offers.
