Current occupation:
Re-Entry GED Specialist – Teach GED at County Jail
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I believe that education is a lifelong process. I have always desired to get a Doctoral degree but honestly, I was nervous. I am thankful to have taken the step and enrolled in this program.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I knew I wanted to do a doctoral degree in Criminal Justice so I started doing my research of different programs and schools. When I found Tiffin, I was so impressed with their Doctoral program. I spoke to the Admissions representative and knew this was the university for me. He was very informative, not pushy at all and I already felt supported. When I had my interview for the program, it cemented my decision to attend Tiffin. My interview was warm, informative, and made me feel like I mattered.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
My experience so far has been amazing. The program and courses are well laid out. The technology is very user friendly. The Moodle classroom is extremely easy to navigate as well. I was anxious before I started because I was a little intimidated at the thought of doing a “Doctoral” degree. However, once I started and went through the first two courses, the feedback and support from instructors has helped me settle in and feel much more confident. I have also attended my first Doctoral Residency weekend at the university. It was amazing. I met so many of the professors any many of the students in my cohort. The presentations provided information that not only gave me a greater understanding of expectations but also showed me the support we would have throughout the program. This gave me so much more confidence and alleviated much of the anxiety I had about completing the program and final Applied Research Project.
Interaction with faculty has been amazing. I have completed two previous degrees online at a different university and did not have the level of support I have found here at Tiffin. The faculty are responsive and provide great feedback and I know they want to see me succeed.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
My children are grown so I do have that responsibility that I have to work my school assignments around. However, I do work fulltime. What I do at the beginning of each course, is read through the syllabus and looking at each week’s assignment. Then I will start by planning out the first two weeks. When the first week is done, I plan week 3 – I am always two weeks ahead. I set up what I am going to do each to ensure that each discussion or assignment is done at least a day or two before the due date. That enables me to review and make any changes needed. I know life can throw us a curve ball but if you plan ahead and ensure you have things done a day or two before they are due, that provides that cushion just in case. I also read my instructors feedback and ensure that I incorporate those suggestions into future assignments.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
I always say – “Keep your eye on the prize”. I envision walking across the stage and have my doctoral hood placed over my head and onto my shoulders. Each course gets me closer and that motivates me. Accomplishing a life long dream to reach this level of education. I am 61 years old – you are never too old to reach for your dream.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
Don’t wait until “tomorrow”. Don’t wait until the day when “you will have more time” That day will never come. Life will always be busy. You have to make the time. The couple of years it takes to complete a degree is only a blip in your lifetime. I was one of those that said, “I will do it when…..” When never came but I am proud I am going it now.
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 am originally from Canada. I met a gentleman through a friend of mine that lived in New York. Over a couple of years, we talked online and on the phone every day. I took a huge risk and moved myself and my two children to New York and we got married. Although I loved this man very much, the anxiety and feel of moving to New York was immense. What I gained from it was a wonderful relationship, an amazing step-dad to my children, and a new adventure. This whole experience has made me a more confident person who is not afraid of taking a risk for the betterment of my life and future. You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.