Hello! My Name Is…
Hi! My name is Jacqueline Chiha! I currently work for Unum, a life and disability insurance group, as sales support in Charlotte, NC. I graduated from East Carolina University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Human Development and Family Sciences. Upon graduating I explored a few different job opportunities and decided to take the business route. I am one of four children, three of which are also ECU graduates! Moving to Charlotte was new for me as I had only visited twice before moving here immediately after graduating from ECU, so my hobbies include exploring the city with my dogs and boyfriend! I also enjoy visiting with my family located in Apex, NC on weekends, hanging out and catching up with friends, reading, and shopping!
What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at Averett University?My motivation for obtaining my degree is having the ability to eventually further my career into a management role within my company. I want to expand my knowledge of the industry as I took only one undergraduate business course. I believe it is important to learn as much as I can about the industry before being placed in a leadership position.
Why did you choose Averett University’s Graduate & Professional Studies program?I chose Averett University because it is a smaller school than what I am used to. ECU treated me well, however, it is nice to be in a smaller classroom setting and makes it easier to interact with all my professors and advisors. When I initially reached out to Averett to find out more information on the program, everyone I interacted with was so friendly and always so helpful and inviting. This drew me in and finalized my decision on attending Averett University. This has been one of the best college experiences for me and I can’t wait to continue with my courses!
When I initially reached out to Averett to find out more information on the program, everyone I interacted with was so friendly and always so helpful and inviting. This drew me in and finalized my decision on attending Averett University.How has your degree from Averett University assisted you in your career?
My office is a Field Office, which means we are very small. There are 35 employees in our office and we are the only North Carolina office. Our headquarters are in Chattanooga, TN and Portland, ME. Our HR department is located in our home offices, so because of the distance I sometimes take on HR approved tasks for the office. My degree has helped me out a lot so far! I have been able to apply concepts to different tasks I carry out throughout the week. I have also paid attention to the work environment mood more than I have in the past. It is satisfying to know how to shift the work environment mood, and how to properly deal with disagreements within the office.
What advice would you share for current and incoming students in Averett University’s GPS Program?Advice I would give to incoming students in Averett University’s GPS Program is to manage your work and stick to a schedule. Sticking to a schedule helps me not procrastinate my work and helps me to effectively manage my expectations. It is also important to take time to relax, so sticking to a schedule helps me have two days off from work and school a week. It is always important to take time to relax! Finally, if you are ever stuck or need someone to reach out to who understands, always reach out to your classmates! Although it is an online program, it truly is what you make it and I have made life-long friendships with classmates through this program. You are never alone at Averett University!
Although it is an online program, it truly is what you make it and I have made life-long friendships with classmates through this program. You are never alone at Averett University!What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?
What keeps me motivated is coming to work every day. When I come to work it’s a constant reminder of where I ultimately want to be in a few years. It makes me work hard for my degree, so I can move up the ladder and help Unum continue to thrive!
What is your anticipated date of graduation?My anticipated graduation date is Spring 2020!
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