Current occupation:
Stay-at-home mom
What made you decide to pursue your degree as an adult?
After stepping away from my previous career as a consumer lender to raise my three young children, I quickly realized that I could also use this time to better myself through academia. It had always been a goal of mine to finish my degree and I decided that it was finally time to commit to reaching my educational goals.
Why did you choose to study at Tiffin University?
I was first introduced to Tiffin University through my sister, a TU alumnus who also was a student-athlete. Her positive experience at TU along with the flexibility that is offered in the online format of its business program is what steered me to Tiffin University. As a stay-at-home mom, flexibility is so important and I was thrilled to know that TU was able to accommodate my needs by providing classes in an online format.
Describe your experience with the program so far.
I was concerned, at first, that the online class format would limit my ability to network and make essential connections with my peers. I am happy to say that this has not been the case! I have made several strong connections through participating in several group projects and through other aspects of my coursework. I truly value the network of people that I have been able to build during my time at Tiffin University!
I have been impressed with the positive impact that my professors have had on my educational journey! I found it very beneficial to have had a few of the same professors who taught several courses throughout the required curriculum. It was nice to be able to establish connections with professionals who could contribute to topics based on their experience with working in the field. Every interaction that I have had with my professors has been positive, engaging, and encouraging.
How are you juggling work, life and going back to school? Any tips?
Being a full-time student along with caring for my three children can be challenging at times. It is important to maintain a level of self-discipline and stick to a routine that allows a healthy work-life balance. Lean on your support system when things seem to be overwhelming whether that be a spouse, parent, or friend.
What keeps you motivated to stay in the program?
A few years ago, I came across a Ted Talk titled ‘Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance’ presented by Angela Lee Duckworth (2013). In this presentation, Duckworth explains that the sole determinant of success is one’s ability to have grit and perseverance regardless of one’s background or situation. This presentation really stuck with me and I refer back to this Ted Talk often for motivation.
Additionally, the motivation to stay in the BBA program also stems from the acknowledgment that I will finally reach my educational goals while strengthening my competitive advantage when I do decide to re-enter the workforce. I am excited to complete my degree and be able to thank those who have supported me while I pursue my educational journey.
What advice would you give to a prospective student who is thinking about going back to school?
Do it! The best investment that you could ever make is to invest in yourself.
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?
One of the biggest risks that I have ever taken was stepping away from my career in lending to stay home with my children. In this volatile economy and the love that I had for being a lender, stepping away to concentrate on raising my children seemed like a huge risk for myself and my family. If I would not have taken this risk, I would not have considered finishing my degree. I am most definitely, along with my family, in a better place after taking that risk and I would make that decision again in a heartbeat!