Current occupation:
Disability Inclusion Professional
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I have always loved learning and as I progressed through my career, I wanted to be at the next level – to have the degree that matched my current professional position and expertise. I have always worked on grants and research projects which involved delivery of training to many professionals in diverse fields. Understanding how leadership styles influence people and situations allows me to be a better communicator, collaborator, and trainer.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I wanted a program at a university that was close to home, flexible, and still had opportunities for in person interaction with the faculty and fellow students. Tiffin University is all of those things.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
My experience with the program so far has been great. I have often said, “They really do want you to succeed!” There’s never a retaliatory grade or feedback. Instead, the faculty are always open to meetings or discussion or second chances. The connections made at the residencies have been surprising – especially the trip to Switzerland. I actually miss seeing and talking to the people I got closer to during that time. As far as technology in the program, it hasn’t been a problem. In some of the courses that require quantitative topics, you have to download different software and learn as you go, but that is to be expected.
Being online can be tough and isolating. The residencies allowed me to put faces to names and have real conversations with people. As time progressed, I got to know some of the faculty better, too, through conferences, trips, and collaborative efforts. This has been a real game-changer for strengthening relationships with the faculty.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Time management is really important! I worked full-time, took two classes, taught adjunct at two universities, and still managed my 3 kids! I am lucky to have a lot of work flexibility, so that was helpful. I would just advise people to plan out their time and make sure they have several opportunities throughout the week for classwork, and not just plan on one sitting to get everything done.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
Finishing!! I’ve always been a non-traditional student, so the finish line is always the goal. The PhD is a means to an end, and the end is being among colleagues on an equal platform, armed with unique knowledge about leadership characteristics and utilizing that knowledge to effect change in organizations.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
If it is the right time – do it! You are never too old, and as long as you have the desire to learn, it’s always going to benefit you. Do your research, make sure the school and program are a fit, and when they are, get started!
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?
Anytime I have reached out to someone “higher up” about an opportunity, or put myself in spaces where those “important” people are, I’m taking a risk. But I always say you can’t get a “yes” if you don’t ever ask, so taking risks has allowed me to obtain teaching opportunities at universities that I only ever hoped for.