Current occupation:
Retail Associate
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I have known since I was a “gifted and talented” child that I wanted to be a doctor of something, I just didn’t know what at the time. But I have also struggled with mental illness since childhood, which is why psychology is my chosen field, and why this degree has been my latest step in one day earning that doctorate.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
2023, the year that I applied to graduate programs, including this one, was the worst mental health year of my life to date. Thus, I figured that an online program was the best option for me since I could do it at home surrounded by friends and family.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
I have found the classes and the professors that oversee them to be consistently productive. One particularly good thing that I can say is that this program encourages you to be critical of the field of psychology, and this really is crucial because the field has so, so many issues to highlight.
I have found the faculty to be informative and helpful, and I always got the sense that if I ever needed extra help on a certain topic, they would be readily available to help. As far as my classmates go, I have gotten the sense that many of them are very passionate and driven about making a career for themselves in this field, and I wish them all the best in doing so.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
I mentioned earlier that 2023 was the worst mental health year of my life, but 2024 came to be so much worse, even taking a heavy toll on my physical health. I found myself quite embarrassed to put down that I am still a retail associate, but my mental and subsequent physical health has been the reason why. I have an anxiety disorder that had run so rampant in my life, which really made me feel like working any more than I already was would be simply too much. Recently, I finally have said disorder is under better control, but school has actually really helped me along the way. I am very passionate about learning in general, and I would say to anyone in a similarly tough situation to keep close to the things and people that bring you joy.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
I am very open about the fact that I have borderline personality disorder, which presents a quotidian challenge for me in maintaining any consistent identity. But a student is the one thing I really know how to be. As aforementioned, I have maintained the goal of obtaining a doctorate for a very long time, and cling to it through all my struggles.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
It is never, ever too late. Your life is yours to do whatever you please with, and if that means going back to school, then go for it. I recently saw a 105-year-old woman graduate with her M.Ed. from Stanford University. It is never too late to pursue your passions.
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 think that taking a chance on yourself and continuing your education beyond high school is a risk in and of itself. The time and money spent continuing your education, rather than just starting a random 9-to-5 that you may never enjoy, reflects a chance taken on yourself to explore yourself and discover your passions and talents. That is what I have done, continue to do, and encourage others to do as well.
sine audacia nullum praemium.