Hello! My Name Is…
Hello, my name is Debbie Rosser. I live a blessed life. My faith and family are vital to me. Both are my motivation for everything I do. God has blessed me with a fantastic job that is both rewarding and fulfilling. For the past sixteen and a half years, I have worked in the field of developmental disabilities. Each day I have the privilege to work with and for God’s most special people. It is an absolute blessing to see them achieve in ways that others are so positive that they cannot or will not have success. I am also very fortunate to have life-long friends who are just as valuable to me as my actual family. It was their love, support, and encouragement that helped me to take this journey of re-entering college, after over thirty years.
What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at Averett University?
My motivation is I am not a quitter. I’ve started this process, and I must do everything within my ability to see it through to the end. The past thirty plus years have taught me to be focused and more driven than ever. I realize I am setting an example for others to follow. It is never too late. Success is achieved by doing.
“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” – Nelson Mandela
Why did you choose Averett University’s Graduate & Professional Studies program?
Deciding to attend Averett was something I feel I was destined to do. Before graduating from high school, I considered Averett as a college choice. I actually toured the campus but never made application to the university. Earlier this year as I began to rethink going back to college, Averett was again one of the first colleges I considered. I received an associate degree in Applied Science from Central Virginia Community College following high school. Although it was never my intention to not continue with my studies, life happened and continuing my educational pursuit was placed on the back-burner. When I saw I could transfer credits from my associate degree towards a Bachelor’s degree at Averett, and also minor in a subject I have always been passionate about really sealed the deal for me.
There was no need to look any further, Averett again was the clear choice for me.
An added plus for me was the ability to complete my degree in a year and a half, from the convenience of my home. I must admit the thought of online courses were somewhat intimidating. I wasn’t sure if I possessed the willpower to stay committed and motivated without being in a traditional classroom setting. The support system at Averett erased all of those doubts. From day one of making contact with Averett, I have only encountered staff who have been just as committed to my success as I am.
The GPS program has allowed me the opportunity to pick up where I left off so many years ago. Earning a degree in a short period of time, along with five-week courses were ideal for me. The GPS program also affords me the opportunity to work full-time and still be a full-time student. This program is indeed a win-win for me.
How has your degree from Averett University assisted you in your career?
I am already learning new tools and techniques to become a more effective leader. As a manager, I see how my leadership skills impact the staff assigned to my team. I know these courses will not only help me to be a more efficient leader but also help me to be a better employee.
What advice would you share for current and incoming students in Averett University’s GPS Program?
My advice to current and future GPS students would be to make a commitment to yourself. We often put everyone and everything else before ourselves. But when we grow, we enrich the lives of those around us. Don’t get stuck while trying to move forward.
What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?
There will be times when you will ask yourself, “What in the world did I do this for?” The answer to that question will be your reason to keep persevering. Every completed assignment leads to a completed course, and each completed class will get you one step closer to the goal of earning your degree. Stay motivated, stay encouraged, stay the course. Realize you are not in this alone. Your reward will be greater than any struggle you may encounter on this journey.
What is your anticipated date of graduation?
My anticipated date of graduation is 2019.