Current occupation:
Caregiver and Volunteer
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I decided to pursue my degree because it was a dream I had for myself. I did not actually see this for myself, but here I am. Additionally, I wanted to be able to assist individuals dealing with mental health issues.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I was completing my Associate of Arts degree at Cuyahoga Community College. Cassie Bass was the Tiffin University representative speaking with students about the college. After speaking with her, I saw it was possible that I could obtain my BA in Psychology. I completed my BA in the fall of 2024 and began my master’s degree in the spring of 2025. I owed my decision to attend Tiffin University to Cassie Bass.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Juggling my day-to-day has been a challenge. For instance, from the start of my master’s degree, my two-year-old granddaughter was in the hospital experiencing heart failure. I would go to the hospital sometimes with my computer while helping to take care of her. I would do this in addition to volunteering at a women’s shelter here in my city. It has been a strain on my mental health, but I make sure to prioritize self-care. My granddaughter is out of the hospital and doing well; however, I am still a part of her care plan. If I can encourage anyone who was nervous about going back to school, I would encourage them to take one step at a time, because one of those steps will be the step you’ll be taking across the stage, receiving your degree. So go for it!
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
What keeps me motivated to stay in the program is that I know that I have a purpose for my life. And quitting is not an option for me. I’m encouraged to know that having an education will allow me to assist those who need my help. I want to be an effective help to all who cross my path.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
JUST DO IT! It truly will all be worth it in the end.
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?
I took the risk of quitting a job that had no advancement to pursue my college education. I was scared out of my mind, but I have learned that there is something greater on the other side of fear. My gains in that risk have been an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree, and soon to be a master’s degree. Had I not taken that risk, I would not have known what I was capable of. I would not have known that the very dreams that I told my children to have for them that I can have for myself. Taking this risk has truly changed my life for the better.