Current occupation:
Library Fiscal Officer
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
In 2016, my youngest children left for college, and found myself with more free time. I wanted to advance in my career and chose TU for undergraduate studies in Accounting.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I chose TU because the programs were accessible to the non-traditional student and the faculty was amazing in adjusting schedules when needed.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
My PhD experience has been amazing so far and I am surprised by how much I have achieved in the program. At first, I was anxious about applying and even unsure if I would be accepted. As an alumnus of TU, I was so excited to enter the program. The technology of online classes is easy to use and the tools available to PhD students are phenomenal.
The faculty at TU is amazing and easily approachable. I believe they truly care about your success and encourage you to be the better version of yourself. Even when there were times I felt the professors were pushing me too hard, I realized they were trying to bring out my potential and find the areas in which I could improve my writing and become the best version of myself.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Sometimes work, family and school are not easy to juggle, but time management is critical for success in returning to college as an adult. There are times when my dining room table is full of school papers and books, the laundry might have to wait or even take-out is the best dinner option, but the support from my husband and family is part of my success. I would tell anyone who is nervous to take the chance, work at your own pace, and seek the support of others. Taking the first step and believing in your abilities is sometimes the hardest part.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
Knowing in the end that I will be Dr. Ross, is a huge motivation, but looking back at where I started to where I am now, keeps me reaching for my goals.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
“Don’t be afraid” is the first step to working toward your goals. Investing in your education is an investment in yourself and in your future. All of your hard work will pay off in the end.
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?
In 2020, I became an eligible candidate to receive a cochlear implant after 40 years of being unable to hear out of my left ear. There were many risks involved in the surgery, including the chance it would not be successful. In the end, the implant surgery was a success and allowed me to hear sounds I had never heard in my life. By taking that risk, I gained so much more in life, and inspired me to continue to reach my goals, letting nothing stand in my way.