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

I wanted to show my kids that it's possible to finish your degree at any age, no matter how long it takes or what obstacle you are challenged with. I always had a passion for criminal justice and my company was offering tuition assistance, so I gathered all my challenges with me and now we are on our journey to the finish line.

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

I got pregnant during my second year of college, and being a single mom was far from easy when I couldn't afford school or daycare to attend class. I always had the motivation, but I always feared failing again because I had other responsibilities. I wanted to wait for the "Right" time , or the "Right" age, but there will never be a right time when you have kids. So I motivated myself to finish strong, and now being 29 all I know is life doesn't stop; it keeps going. Now I am a single mom of two kids and work 40+ hour work weeks, but I can see that end goal get closer every day. I'm looking forward to being the first in the family to get a bachelor's degree. I refuse to allow any stigma to define me.

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

The professors I've had so far at Purdue Global have been so understanding and I'm so thankful for them. They have motivated me on days I felt that things got overwhelming.

How has going to college impacted you and your family?

I'm first-generation, and to my parents that's an accomplishment. I have accomplished their goal - to receive a college degree in America. My parents are grateful I went further in school than they ever did. They always told me growing up that a degree can open doors that you didn't know you can open.

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

Keep going. You are breaking generational curses that you didn't even know you were breaking. Being first-generation means that the sacrifices they made to come here were worth it. Everyone goes through challenges; it's how you can move forward from them is what sets you apart.