Current occupation:
Chief Strategy Officer
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I’ve always been interested in getting my Ph.D., but I worried about finding the right program that could work in my life. When I learned about Tiffin’s program, I knew it was the right choice for me, and would provide me the opportunity to achieve my goal.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
My first experience with TU was for my master’s degree (M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration). I knew I wanted and needed a 100% online program. I had such a good experience with my master’s degree that pursuing my Ph.D. at TU was a no-brainer!
Describe your experience with the program so far.
I have had an amazing experience. Every staff member I’ve encountered has been kind, and helpful, and sought to make the process as easy for me as possible. As a working mom, I have especially appreciated the staff making each process so seamless. The program formats are consistent and easy to navigate, so I know each semester what time I need to set aside for my coursework.
I’ve found the faculty cares a great deal, not only for our success as students but in understanding we’re adults with full lives in addition to being students. I have never hesitated to reach out for support or guidance and have always been met warmly. Same with my peers – the support I feel from classmates exceeds my expectations of an online program.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
I would love to say I have a certain strategy for this, but really it’s just something you have to dedicate the time to. My kids are 10 and 12 and in a number of after-school activities and sports. We are busy doing something every night and most weekends. You have to be motivated to carve out the time for yourself that you need. The format of Tiffin’s online programs helps a lot with this, because it’s consistent from course to course, and I don’t have to re-learn a new format or schedule each semester.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
I really want my Ph.D.! I’m motivated by what my end result will be, but am trying to remember to enjoy and take in the learning process along the way.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
Just start. If you wait for the ‘perfect timing’, you’ll be waiting forever. Get started and make adjustments as you go along. Don’t compare your journey or timeline to others – every step you take forward is progress you’ve made.
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?
Every time we step out of our comfort zone and try something new, it’s a risk. Failure can be daunting, but taking risks pushes us into things we wouldn’t encounter otherwise. The growth I’ve experienced, personal and professional, through stepping out of my comfort zone outweighs the fear of trying something new.