Current occupation:
Assistant Director of Transportation
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I decided to pursue my degree as an adult because I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. While working at a community college and encouraging students to reach their goals, I realized I needed to follow my own advice. I thought, “If I can’t finish a degree myself, how can I expect other students to?”
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I chose Tiffin University because of the DragonNext program with Owens Community College. After speaking with an advisor, I realized I could earn my degree while balancing work and family. Tiffin gave me the opportunity and support I needed to move forward. Within a year, I had earned my bachelor’s degree, and just one year later, I’m in my final semester of my master’s degree.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
My experience at Tiffin so far has been amazing. As an adult student balancing work, family, and school, I’ve never felt like I was on my own. When I have a question or concern, I know I can reach out and get a quick response. That support has made a big difference for me. Earning my bachelor’s degree in just one year gave me a confidence I didn’t have before and made me realize I could keep going. Now, as I finish my master’s degree, I’m proud of how far I’ve come and thankful I chose Tiffin.
The interactions I’ve had with the staff and my cohorts have made me feel supported and connected throughout my journey. Whenever I have a question or concern, I receive a quick response and never feel like I’m on my own.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Juggling work, family, and school can definitely be challenging, but I’ve learned that staying organized and using my time wisely makes a big difference. My biggest advice for anyone nervous about starting is to just take that first step. It may feel overwhelming at first, but you are capable of more than you think. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and give yourself grace along the way.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
What keeps me motivated is remembering why I started. I wanted to prove to myself that I could finish what I started, and earning my bachelor’s degree showed me that I’m capable of more than I thought. Now, being so close to finishing my master’s, I don’t want to stop. I’m proud of how far I’ve come, and that keeps me pushing forward.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
My biggest advice is to just take the first step. Going back to school as an adult can feel overwhelming, but don’t let being busy or nervous hold you back. My family has been a huge part of my journey they supported me, encouraged me when things were stressful, and celebrated my accomplishments. With good time management and a strong support system, you can make it work. Take it one step at a time and believe in yourself.
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 going back to school. With that, I gained confidence, pushed myself outside of my comfort zone, and proved that it’s never too late to accomplish something you once thought was out of reach. Earning my bachelor’s degree and now being so close to finishing my master’s is something I’m truly proud of. Most importantly, I gained a belief in myself that I didn’t have before.