Current occupation:
Pharmacy Purchasing Technician
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I decided to pursue my degree because I had a personal goal to become a first-generation college student. I wanted to make my family proud, but more importantly, I wanted to be proud of myself and everything I’ve worked hard to accomplish. I knew pursuing higher education would challenge me academically, and I welcomed that challenge. My ultimate goal is to help foster meaningful change in healthcare administration, and I believe earning this degree is a critical step toward becoming someone who can truly make a difference in that field.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I chose Tiffin University because it aligned perfectly with my goals and values. As a first-generation college student, I was seeking an institution that not only offered a strong academic program in healthcare administration but also provided a supportive and flexible learning environment. Tiffin’s commitment to student success, evident through its personalized advising and small class sizes, assured me that I wouldn’t just be another face in the crowd. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on real-world experience and career preparation resonated with my aspiration to drive meaningful change in healthcare administration. The flexibility of course offerings, including online options, made it feasible to balance my studies with other responsibilities. Overall, Tiffin University stood out as the ideal place for me to challenge myself academically and achieve my personal and professional goals.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
My experience with the program so far has been very positive. One of the most impactful aspects has been how much it has helped me become more self-driven. I never imagined how much personal growth I would experience in that area. The online format really pushed me to take initiative, stay organized, and manage my time effectively, and those skills have transferred over in a big way to my job as well.
At first, I was a little anxious about staying on top of everything without the structure of in-person classes. But the support from professors and the clear layout of the courses made it manageable. The technology has been easy to use, which made the learning process much smoother than I expected. Overall, the program has helped me grow both academically and professionally.
My interactions with the faculty have been incredibly positive. The professors are approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping us succeed. They provide thoughtful feedback and are always willing to answer questions or offer guidance, which makes me feel valued as a student. Although the program is online, I’ve never felt disconnected or alone.
As for my cohort, it’s been encouraging to connect with others who are also balancing school, work, and personal responsibilities. There’s a strong sense of mutual respect and understanding. Whether it’s through discussion boards or group projects, I’ve learned a lot from hearing different perspectives and experiences. It’s created a sense of community that makes the program more engaging and meaningful.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Balancing work, family, and school can definitely feel overwhelming at times, but what has helped me the most is following the 8-8-8 method: 8 hours for work, 8 hours for rest, and 8 hours for personal time, which includes schoolwork, downtime, and family. This structure helps me stay grounded and ensures that every part of my life gets the attention it needs.
I work from 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM, so I plan my days around that. I’ve learned to recognize which days I’m more motivated and productive, and I use those to tackle heavier school tasks. It comes down to time and task management. I recommend planning out your days or even your entire week in advance. Knowing what to expect helps reduce stress and keeps you focused.
For anyone who’s nervous, I’d say: give yourself grace, stick to a routine, and stay flexible. It’s a learning curve, but with consistency and planning, you can create a healthy balance that works for your life.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
What keeps me motivated is remembering why I started in the first place. I set out to become a first-generation college student, not just to make my family proud, but to prove to myself that I could achieve something bigger. I’ve come this far, and that reminds me that I’m capable of seeing it through.
I’m also driven by my long-term goal of making a difference in healthcare administration. Every class, every assignment brings me one step closer to that dream. On the tough days, I think about the people I’ll be able to help in the future, and that gives me the push I need to keep going.
Finally, I stay motivated by recognizing my growth. This program has challenged me, but it has also made me more focused, confident, and self-driven than I ever thought possible. That progress alone is enough to keep me going.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
My biggest advice is: just go for it, your future is worth it. It’s normal to feel nervous or unsure, especially if it’s been a while since you were in school, but don’t let fear hold you back. You’re more capable than you think, and you’ll be surprised by how much you grow, both academically and personally.
Create a plan that works for your lifestyle and stick to it. Time management is key;set goals, build a routine, and stay organized. I recommend the 8-8-8 method: 8 hours for work, 8 for rest, and 8 for school, family, or personal time. That balance has been a game-changer for me.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Use the support systems available, professors, classmates, advisors, and even family. You’re not in it alone.
Most importantly, believe in yourself. Going back to school is a brave and empowering decision, and it opens doors you may never have imagined. If I can do it, you can too.
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?
A time I took a risk was when I applied for my pharmacy purchasing job even though I didn’t have all the experience they wanted. I believed in myself and my ability to learn and grow, and I decided to take a chance. Thankfully, I got the job, and that risk paid off in so many ways. I gained valuable experience, confidence, and a sense of accomplishment that continues to motivate me. Taking that leap showed me the importance of self-belief and opened doors I never thought possible. I’m still very thankful for having taken that risk.