Michael J. Brandt, MS Psychology
Current occupation: Entrepreneur, Research Associate
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
I am planning a new career inclusive of novel paradigms of service delivery in mental health.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
Tiffin U. offered an MS program in Psychological Science focused on the research domain. Their online program is unique in content, delivery, quality and value. The CVs and reputations of their faculty members further distinguish this program from offerings of other Universities.
What has been your experience with the program so far?
This program is challenging but rewarding. The student will receive what they put into it. The faculty members will engage the student to the full level of their interest. The technology is straightforward and easy to utilized.
The faculty members have been terrific, have made individual time for me whenever I have needed this, have been attentive to my concerns and have supported my vision. My classmates have been varied in their approach but have a specific cross-section have offered feedback and academic support in a collaborative environment and the online format.
The faculty members have been terrific, have made individual time for me whenever I have needed this, have been attentive to my concerns and have supported my vision.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school?
It has been very challenging for myself as someone so committed to each and every assignment. My best advice would be to know thyself and to prioritize your Tiffin U. program as the valuable opportunity that it will represent … not just in the present, but for the rest of your lifetime.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
My motivation is very personal, to be honest. I have had one long and successful career, already. I have simultaneously witnessed many individuals, including my own self, at times, struggle to remain strong within the challenges of our society. This is my time to deliver unto others. I often visualize hundreds, thousands, of people, all kinds of people, standing off in the distance looking at me silently and waiting. If that sounds odd, then so be it. I really don’t want too strongly for motivation.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
I’m not filled with too much advice for others. I spent many years planning goals with myself and those immediately around me foremost in mind. One day, I acquired a mentor who challenged me to find a ‘Why’ that was characterized of service to others. That mentor gave me a method to do so. I took him up on his offer. Education can be many things for many people, most all of them good. In the best case, I believe, it can be a vehicle for changing and improving this world that we all live in.
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 decided to go overseas and work on the behalf of refugees of the Syrian Civil War in 2017. I would like to describe how tough I am and how it was no big deal but I was very apprehensive prior to first departure from the US. I could write an entire volume as to what I gained, but more than anything, I acquired immense gratitude for everything that I do have. I also acquired a sense of responsibility to earn the opportunity that has been provided to me. More than anything, I gained the universal truth that people are the same everywhere and that the resilience of the human spirit and love and compassion for others can overcome any challenge or setback.