What motivated you to enroll in the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Leadership?
I was questioning if a doctoral degree would be right for me. I spoke with my Vice President, who encouraged me and nominated me for the CCLA program. After attending the informational webinar, I realized the program would be a great stepping stone.
What’s one lesson or insight from the program that’s stayed with you?
Hurricane Helene hit our area hard while we were in classes. My classmates reached out to each other to see how they could help, and the professors were helpful with rescheduling assignments and assisting as needed. This experience taught me the value of connections within our system and showed that caring for each other as individuals is the foundation of caring for our students.
What was your favorite class or assignment – and why?
While all of the assignments were meaningful, the one that stuck out for me was our Legal Aspects of Higher Education final paper. We selected our own topic, and I chose “Public Service Loan Forgiveness: Can PSLF be abolished without Congressional approval?”. The topic was timely, given the recent presidential executive orders in the news, which allowed me to research PSLF as a participant in that program. Throughout the semester, I learned how to find reputable legal sources, complete case analyses, apply legal theories, and form arguments.
Who was your biggest supporter during the program (personally or professionally), and how did they support you?
My husband, Greg, was my biggest supporter through the program. The courses are graduate level, so reading, research, and class participation were crucial. Greg encouraged me when I was doubting myself and was a wonderful sounding board for my ideas, research, and readings. Being able to talk through the material helped me make connections and reinforce the key concepts. On the nights I would drive home from work and need to join class immediately, he would have a snack and water ready for me, which was the sweetest gesture.
What’s your go-to source of inspiration – a book, quote, mentor, or song that keeps you motivated?
I enjoy music, so I usually find inspiration in songs. Two songs that keep me motivated are “Superstar” by Rainbow Kitten Surprise and “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart" by Taylor Swift.
