Jade Podbelsek

Impressive is the word that I’d use to describe Jade. She is a true go getter. Jade's work ethic is incredible. She has a high GPA and has been on the Dean's List more than once. Jade has two majors, Sustainability and Political Science, with a minor in Spanish. She wants to change the world by creating laws for large corporations that help the environment. 

Jade is highly involved in her community. She has been to the state capital to sit in on committee meetings. Jade is an officer for the Student Sustainability Coalition Club, which holds events to increase awareness and help the environment. She is also on the Student Activities Board. Jade will be participating in the study abroad program this summer in Spain, and speaks fluent Spanish. She has previously participated in a UofL fashion show and represented her heritage by wearing a traditional Slovenian outfit that student created by herself. 

Jade pushes her co-workers to strive for greatness. At UPS, she drives a forklift. Jade trains other drivers and has been offered a leadership position as well.

Despite these demands of both mind and body, Jade still makes time for friends, family, and loved ones. She is truly exceptional due to her perseverance, work ethic, and overall focus on achieving greatness in all aspects of life. 

This spring, Jade was chosen as the recipient of the 2025 Outstanding Student Award, an award that recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding leadership, work-life balance, and academic success.

Learn more about Jade Podbelsek in this MC Spotlight Q&A Interview

Why did you decide to participate in the MC program?

I decided to participate in the MC program because of the financial benefits. Not only is it the most obvious financial benefit of full tuition coverage but it also university scholarship reimbursement, hourly wage, and years of experience on a resume that will have an impact of future hiring. Before I started the program, I knew I would never forgive myself if I passed the opportunity to not only graduate debt-free but graduate with savings. Now in my third year in the program, I am so thankful I started and stayed loyal for the sake of my financial future. The benefits of being a union member at UPS were also a benefit of the program, but not necessarily a deciding factor. The insurance provided is helping me get multiple dental surgeries completed at a lower cost than before.

What led you to choose your major of study?

My first major is sustainability, which I decided on in high school when my passion for climate change action gained momentum. I have seen more information over the years about climate change and its growing effects and impending impacts on our planet. I couldn’t believe how dangerous this issue was and how it felt like not enough people trying to make a difference. I wanted to get involved, it felt like a responsibility. My second major is Political Science which started as a minor for me but I quickly upgraded. I knew if I wanted to make a real change regarding the climate crisis I would have to change regulations, use policy, and be the difference in government we need. I find politics interesting and having a political degree behind me makes me a stronger influence when advocating for the environment in government.

What motivates and drives you to succeed while pursuing your educational goals?

Like I said about my major, I feel a responsibility to the earth, community, atmosphere, and future generations to make a lasting difference in improving the effects of climate change. Knowing I’m studying and working now to further my career in aiding the earth is a big motivation for me. That and I’ve always had a strong drive and happen to be a bit persistent.

What are your hobbies and interests?

I like fashion, trying to alter my own clothes or thrifting specifically, and coming up with different outfits in my head. I also enjoy doing my nails along with, spending time with my friends, I like casually hiking and kayaking. Being in the MC program definitely limits my free time but after graduation I’m hoping to get into more reading, being active, and creating my own garden.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, I plan on moving to Cincinnati, even though I love living in Louisville. My boyfriend is starting a full-time engineering position there this summer and I plan on joining him there next summer. Hopefully, with the money I have saved due to the MC program we will be able to buy a house soon after. Picturing a future for myself in Cincinnati, maybe I can work for the Environmental Protection Agency office there, or the Ohio EPA. My main career goal is to help the environment.

We are proud of our current students and alumni and their incredible accomplishments! The MC Spotlight is a way for us to highlight the amazing things our current students and alumni are doing. As you read their stories, you will learn how their Metropolitan College experiences helped to shape their futures and influence their careers.

We are always on the lookout for inspiring MC Spotlight stories. If you or someone you know is interested in sharing a story with us, contact us at askmetro@kctcs.edu.

Note: At Metropolitan College, we consider our alumni anyone who has ever completed coursework and received tuition benefits with us.