Current occupation: Instructor of Finance
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
It’s always been on my radar to get a Ph.D., even when I was a kid. I chose to start a family following undergrad and it always was in the back of my mind—“what might have been.” I couldn’t be happier to be proof to my daughter that even if the path to your dreams is derailed a little—it doesn’t mean you have to give them up.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
Of the graduate schools I looked at, it was important for me to be in a place when I felt supported. Previously coming from a very large university, I felt that Tiffin offered me the personalized support I was looking for to do my master’s degree. After such a positive experience, I was thrilled to come back again to pursue my doctorate.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
I am finishing my dissertation and have completed all my coursework. The classes are well thought-out and give students multiple perspectives to how culture and global leadership can be integrated into the business world. I was terrified to take quantitative research and managerial statistics. My background is in English, and I could not remember the last time I had to take a math class. But Dr. Mays was so patient and understanding. Not only did I survive but I earned an A. I am so glad I was encouraged to learn outside of my comfort zone.
The technology used was a dream to keep organized and track guides. Accessing the library was like having everything you could think of at your fingertips—including a librarian.
How has your experience been with your cohort and faculty?
I feel like the Tiffin faculty and even the president of the university makes a point to know us and understand our processes. I never felt like I couldn’t reach out at any time with questions or concerns. My cohort became friends I’ve never met. I never thought it was possible. There is an immense level of support as we all try to finish the program. I look forward to the residency weekend to see my ‘friends’ and interact in person.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
There are days where I feel like I could conquer the world and juggle school, work, and family. And there are days where I feel like I can’t. That is okay. The work is well spaced out and can be appropriately managed to maintain a normal lifestyle. There are no surprises and the entire semester is mapped out for you. The faculty is kind and understanding. During my final semester, I ended up very behind when my mother in law passed away. My professors let me focus on my family and helped me reorganize my work so I could be where I needed to be. That act of compassion and understanding is really what this program is about. We are all busy and all have crazy lives. The support network is second to none.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
Each step brings you closer to your doctorate. Every paper, every project and every assignment is geared to help you reach the finish line. It was easy to stay motivated when you could watch your project unfold before your eyes. It was very exciting.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
It’s always worth an opportunity to grow and learn. The openness to better ourselves is going to be what changes the world. Instead of wishing things would happen, you have an opportunity to be a change-maker. There is no supportive place to make that happen than Tiffin.
TU’s motto is: Without risk there is no gain. Can you tell us about a time when you took a risk and what you gained from it?
Just recently, I left my very safe job at a financial firm to enter in on the ground floor of a growing company in a new industry. It has been a joy to be part of something that is rapidly growing and to be in a position to make decisions and create change. I look forward to each new day and what it might present.