'My incomplete degree was a persistent weight on my shoulders'
"Let's Talk Graduation Day!" says Kara Morissette '18, who nabbed her BS - Liberal Studies** from Johnson & Wales University Online. This milestone day wasn't just about herself; her two young kids, cheering in the crowd, were just as significant. "After witnessing countless hours of studying and homework, I wanted them to see the payoff at graduation," Kara shared.
Unlike many grads at her ceremony, Kara followed an unconventional path. She began her academic journey over a dozen years ago, juggling a full-time job at Blue Cross Blue Shield and family life. Study hours didn't happen in the campus library but in hockey rinks and at home after the kids were asleep. "It's all about time management," Kara emphasized about her online learning experience.
Here's Kara's inspiring tale of persistence:
Why the degree pursuit?
I lasted three-and-a-half years at the University of Rhode Island, leaving before my senior year due to family troubles. Leaving school left a lingering sensation that my degree was unfinished and hampered my career advancement. As my children grew more independent, I felt it was the right time to complete my degree. Plus, my company offered tuition reimbursement, making out-of-pocket costs minimal.
Why Johnson & Wales Online?
I had friends working for Johnson & Wales, along with graduates, who spoke highly of the online program. They helped me navigate the process of transferring credits from URI, which turned out to be surprisingly smooth. I was able to transfer a significant portion of credits.
First-timer in online learning? What was it like?
As a tech-challenged individual, I had fears about the complexity of online systems. Fortunately, I was pleasantly surprised by the user-friendliness of the online program. There was a learning curve early on, especially with the formats of discussions and assignments, but once I established a routine, it became a breeze. I loved the flexibility of completing work on my own schedule and attending structured classes was no longer a demand.
Balancing work and studies: strategies
My life is hectic, juggling a full-time job, kids, and after-school sports activities. At first, I thought I had no free time, but my main game-changer was allotting specific times for each task. I studied during hockey practice, replied to discussion posts after the kids went to bed, or ducked into office conference rooms during lunch breaks. With calendar organization, I managed to make it work.
Key factors in my college life
My business courses and professors stood out for their relevance to my job. My marketing profs, especially MRKT 1001, were enthusiastic and dedicated throughout the course. Statistics was a challenge in the online setting, but the resourceful course materials and helpful professor made it an enjoyable experience.
I utilized what I learned in my new marketing position, landing a job offer contingent upon my May graduation.
Thoughts on Johnson & Wales Online for prospective students
Don't wait! Dive right in and embrace the opportunity. I was hesitant for years, thinking I didn't have time, but the online support system at Johnson & Wales is top-notch. Advisors were responsive, professors cared about student success, and support resources were readily available. Get started now!
- Find more about Johnson & Wales University Online and how our degrees could be your career ladder by filling out the Request Info form, calling 855-JWU-1881, or emailing [email protected].
- Kara's unconventional path of earning her degree included balancing a full-time job, family life, and online learning in the education-and-self-development field, such as the Business and Marketing programs at Johnson & Wales University Online, which contributed significantly to her personal growth.
- For anyone considering online education for their higher learning and career advancement, Kara strongly recommends Johnson & Wales University Online, asserting that their personal attention, supportive advisors, and relevant courses in areas like Business and Marketing (even in-depth courses like Statistics) are crucial for learning and achieving professional success.
