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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.
The Saloon Professional Academy of Colorado Springs
April 5, 2024
Alexis Cannon
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.
Luxury Kisses - Beauty & Esthetics | luxe-kisses.com (website)
What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
My little sister inspired me to go beauty school in 2022 shortly after I moved to Colorado. She had completed her program during the pandemic and encouraged to me to go as well so that maybe one day we can open a storefront together. Once I enrolled in school myself I realized quickly how important it is to market yourself in a positive way. After I complete my Esthetics program coming up this May, I will be enrolling into Southern New Hampshire University to pursue me Bachelors degree in Marketing.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
My biggest challenge I would say has been lack of family support and because of this reason its so hard for me to ask for help at times. I married my husband young and have raised my kids wherever the army has lead us. Recently after I had enrolled in beauty school, we were informed that my husband would be deployed to Korea for 9 months and shortly after my 5 year old was also diagnosed with Epilepsy. Eventually they shipped my husband off and I struggled trying to solely provide for my 3 children, while attending school at night, and working part time on the days I wasn't in school.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
What helps me the most is having a daily/weekly routine. I also have to prioritize what's really important and what's not. After I enrolled back in school my schedule changed so much and I had to re-teach myself that everything didn't have to be perfect in life. Most of my family resides in Texas so sometimes it helps not having those kind of distractions but I definitely keep in touch and plan trips together whenever possible.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
As much as I love being in traditional school settings, I love the convience of the online school more. I live further south of Colorado Springs and almost everything is further up north. Not having to commute especially during traffic gives me more time to study and spend with my family. I also love just being able to work at my own pace.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
My motivation would absolutely be my kids. I have all boys and one was recently diagnosed on the autism spectrum. He learns differently and I have been trying to show him the importance of educating yourself. I don't feel like I had the proper guidence growing up or great role models, and I want to change that dynamic for my kids while setting good examples.
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?
Organizations like Sigma Chi Psi signify inclusivity (sisterhood) and opportunity. I always wanted to join a sorority because I wanted to be apart of something great. I have had a couple of friends recently join other sororities and have watch how much they have grown over time. This is something I really admire!!
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
The funny thing is I have came a long way. I use to be so introverted and recently have been coming out of my shell more and more. When I moved back to Texas in 2019 I was invited to a few events some networking. At these events I loved being in these social settings with people would have many accomplishments. I seen how networking could also provide so many great opportunities.
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.