What motivated you to want to go to college and Purdue Global in particular?

I have always wanted a career that makes a difference in the lives of others. Not only that, I have children I want to show that anything is possible, regardless of your circumstances. Purdue Global is a school I heard about frequently, and when looking for more information online, I was called and greeted with a very warm personality within 10 minutes of submitting my information.

What is one challenge you have faced in continuing or completing your studies/degree? How did you overcome that challenge?

My challenges may be something others can relate to. I was a teenager mother who lost my mother to cancer when I was 19. Both of these things made accomplishing or even wanting to accomplish my goals incredibly hard. I was a very lost young adult who for a while felt an overwhelming sense of "what's the point?" One day I realized that I will be a Mother to a child my age and I would not want her to share the same feelings. It hit me one day that just because things were hard for me, did not mean that it would not be worth it. Knowing that my mother worked at a factory job that she disliked for over half of her lifetime before passing away motivated me to change my own circumstances.

What was your most positive experience at Purdue Global and why?

My most positive experience at Purdue Global has been meeting friendly and experienced people within my field who are willing to share their knowledge. This school welcomed me with open arms ever since the first phone call, and I have been very thankful ever since.

How has going to college impacted you and your family?

The most impactful thing I've noticed about being a student and a Mom is that my children are actively interested in Mommy going to school. It gives me incredible motivation to continue even when it is hard. My kids and family are extremely proud that I have broken generational barriers and defied becoming a statistical teenage-parent drop out.

What advice would you give to first-generation college students thinking about attending Purdue Global?

My advice to any first-generation student is that looking back and being able to say you made it, while breaking the cycles your parents and grandparents set forth, will be worth it. You are worth it, the generations that come after you are worth it, and the success that comes with it is something that no one can take away from you. Once you've gained an education, it's yours. Many things may change in your lifetime, but your education will remain.