While understanding that Axia College programs would not lead to her ultimate goal of becoming an RN, she saw that it would be necessary to enroll in Axia for her AA degree — for the purpose of fulfilling some of the RN pre-requisite general-education requirements. Earning her AA degree at the same time was an added plus.
Vivian said that her experience with Axia “has been a challenge that I enjoy especially with the assistance of the professors and support staff who have been very helpful. The classes are suitable to my working schedule and it allows me to continue my education until I accomplish my goal to graduate with a college degree.”
Vivian explained that her biggest challenge is juggling work, family and now her education, but feels that the initial period was the toughest. Adding, “If you are set on getting the education you want, going to school becomes second nature.”
She believes the biggest support a new student can get is through family, co-workers, and friends. “Moral support is needed.” She also is quick to point out that the untiring and caring efforts of the University of Phoenix graduation team, who contact her on a regular basis to make sure that she and other students are doing well, is a major help.
Her core motivation is her family, as she wants to be the mother who sets the right example for her children. In her words, “I want to set an example — showing them that no matter where your decisions take you, as long as you have the motivation and commitment to complete a degree, you can still accomplish your dreams.”
Vivian said she believes her pursuit of higher education has led her to become a better employee and a more productive citizen. She has already used her educational experiences to inspire many contemporaries and close friends, and continues to do so. She said, “It makes me feel great and motivates me to want to do more to help others. I want to continue to encourage others to pursue a higher education so that they too can be more productive, ultimately making our society a stronger, better community. I want to see others succeed and provide whatever assistance or encouragement I can give.”
True to her word, Vivian has stimulated 13 acquaintances to enroll in University of Phoenix programs; six work colleagues, including her manager at work, five family members, and two close friends.
When asked how she inspires others to pursue their education with University of Phoenix, she said, “I encourage others to further their education and I use myself as an example.” She explains to others that there are many programs available and how completing a college education has improved and benefited her own life — and how she expects it to further benefit her when she completes her degree.
Vivian is employed in the accounting department of a mid-size company. Her manager embarked on a degree program with University of Phoenix in July 2010, and has said she is impressed with the institution as well. With the hope of encouraging employee growth within the company, she recently approved a new company policy which allows team members to access the university’s online classroom during working hours. As a result, many others are now thinking of going back to school.
Vivian said the core reason behind her success as a student has been her desire to provide a better life for her family, the desire to earn a college degree that will enhance her professional goals and aspirations — and last, it is her desire to set an example for others.
She wants to tell others “to pursue their goals despite their age, financial hardship, or family situation. It’s never too late to dream. ”
