What is your motivation for obtaining your degree?
As the parents of two children, my husband and I spent a great deal of our time ensuring that our children were able to achieve their goals and secure successful futures. Now that our children are older, I want to put that same time and energy into pursuing a degree for myself. I’ve always had the passion to obtain a degree, and now it is my time to follow my passion. In an article concerning adults returning back to school, Maria Shriver once wrote, “You’re in it to thrive, bloom and prosper. This time, it’s all about YOU.” I am motivated, now more than ever, to follow the advice that I repeatedly shared with my children so that I, too, can achieve my goals and continue to secure a successful future.
Why did you choose Averett’s Graduate & Professional Studies Program?
While researching possible degree programs, I was looking for a program that was flexible, yet academically challenging. As a full-time employee, I am not able to devote my full attention to a full-time degree program. Averett’s GPS Program is the perfect fit for my busy schedule. Also, after speaking with an Averett GPS Program admissions counselor, I realized I was not only accepted into a degree program, but I was also accepted into the Averett GPS family. The Averett GPS faculty and staff are supportive and very encouraging!
Please share one tip for your fellow classmates and future AU students:
Never be afraid to ask for help! First, always ask professors for assistance if you don’t understand something. It is better to ask for help before completing an assignment. Next, take advantage of the resources around you. If you are not able to utilize resources on campus, reach out to local teachers or even libraries for extra support. Last, communicate with your classmates. You and your classmates want the same outcome – to be successful! Don’t be afraid to ask classmates about an unclear assignment or for better understanding about a confusing lesson.
What helps to keep you motivated while you are in the program?
My family keeps me motivated. My husband and I instilled the importance of education in our children. Now that the roles have reversed, and I am the student, my children and my husband constantly provide me with encouragement. My children are always willing to provide insight or advice to ensure my success in obtaining my degree. Also, I realize that I must not only set an example for my family, but for my community. As a recently appointed Martinsville City Public Schools school board member, I want to set an example for students and their parents.
What is your anticipated Date of Graduation?
Summer 2018