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The Digital Connection highlights students from various educational institutions and alumni. The opportunity to participate is optional and open to the public. Email support@scpandgsg.org for more information.
Eastern Gateway Community college
June 30, 2025
Brittany Foreman
Thank you for taking the time to participate in our digital article series, The Digital Connection. Your willingness to share your journey helps bring greater visibility to the experiences of online students and highlights the growing need for inclusive opportunities, like fraternity and sorority involvement, within virtual learning environments.
Before we start, we like to highlight business owners as part of our commitment to supporting small businesses. If you are a business owner, we invite you to share your business name, website, or any relevant details, so we can help amplify your work alongside your personal story.
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What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
Honestly, I was nervous. I had been working as a CNA for years, and as a single mom, things were starting to get really hard. I moved out on my own when I was 18 and had my daughter at 22. I’ve always taken care of myself and pushed through, but deep down, I knew I wanted more for me and for her.
One day at the hospital where I worked It's part of a union , one of my coworkers was reading out loud about this free online college opportunity the union offered. I didn’t say anything, but I went home that night and applied in silence. I was scared. Scared it wasn’t real, scared I wouldn’t finish, and honestly scared that at my big age, I might fail.
But I didn’t fail I pushed through. I finished, and that decision changed my life. I ended up getting a better job and started making more money. Looking back, that quiet moment of courage gave me the loudest results, and I’m so proud I took that step.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
Maintaining consistency and focus was one of my toughest tasks, especially given everything else I had to deal with as a working mother. I needed to be hungry and committed to it. People around me wanted to go out, unwind, or simply take it easy, but I had to learn how to say "no."
I was inside working, reading, writing papers, and taking care of myself while everyone else was outside. Although it wasn't simple, I reminded myself of my goals. I knew I wanted more out of life, so I remained focused. And each time I wanted to give up, I reminded myself of why I had begun. I persevered because of that attitude.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
It hasn't been simple at all, but I've managed to make it work by being purposeful with my time and maintaining organization. I had to make plans and compromises in order to balance working, parenting my daughter, and living my life.
Sometimes that meant getting up extra early before a shift or finishing coursework late at night after she went to bed. I discovered how to let go of things that weren't advancing my development and prioritize what truly important.
It all comes down to understanding my "why." I continued telling myself that the goal of everything I did, including assignments and sacrifices, was to improve our future together. Even on my worst days, that kept me going.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
For me, flexibility has been one of the main advantages of online education. I needed something that could work with my schedule, not the other way around, because I'm a working mother. It really helped that I could study at my own speed and complete tasks whenever it was most convenient for me.
Additionally, I think I've grown more self-reliant and disciplined. Because taking lessons online requires you to hold yourself accountable, I learned how to better manage my time and maintain focus on my objectives.
Another advantage is that I've been able to make connections with folks from other cities and campuses. It has demonstrated to me that learning may still have a significant impact even when done virtually.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
I kept myself motivated by reminding myself of my daughter, my future, and my desire for personal growth. Every time I felt worn out or stressed, I reminded myself of the life I was creating because I knew I didn't want to be stuck where I was.
I developed a regimen that helped me stay on course. I used a planner, created to-do lists, and set aside time specifically for education, even if it meant turning down other activities. In order to avoid feeling isolated during the process, I also took care to communicate with my instructors and participate in discussion forums. Above everything, I simply continued to show up. I reminded myself, even on the difficult days: one step at a time, Even on the hard days, I told myself: one step at a time, just keep going. That mindset helped me push through and stay committed.
What does it signify to you when organizations like Sigma Chi Psi Sorority and Gamma Sigma Gamma Fraternity attempt to bridge the social gap for students who are pursuing their education online?
It means the world to me. It demonstrates that someone at last recognizes us online learners for who we truly are. We continue to attend our classes while working, raising children, and overcoming obstacles in real life.
I feel appreciated and included when groups like Gamma Sigma Gamma and Sigma Chi Psi provide spaces for us. "You deserve community," it adds. You are worthy of being a brother or sister. Regardless of whether you attend a regular university or not, you deserve to have the whole college experience.
It means more than words can express that they are removing obstacles and providing opportunities for individuals like me to connect, develop, and feel like they belong.
What significance do socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
It is significant to me since those experiences aid in my personal development as well as my growth as a student. Through networking and socializing, I can create genuine connections with others who can relate to my path and motivate me to keep going.
Additionally, community service is something that has always held a special place in my heart. I have experience providing care, so I understand the impact that giving back can have. Being a part of something that benefits others helps me stay grounded and reminds me of my mission.
Thank you again for being part of The Digital Connection. Your voice adds depth and meaning to this series, and we’re honored to share your perspective. We look forward to amplifying your story and continuing to build a platform that reflects the diverse journeys of online learners everywhere.