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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.
University of Arizona Global Campus
December 12, 2024
De'Andrea White
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.
No, I am not.
What inspired you to pursue an online college education, and how did you get started?
Pursuing an online college education was born out of necessity and resilience. As a single mother of two, I needed a way to further my education while balancing the demands of motherhood and rebuilding my life after leaving an abusive marriage. Traditional college wasn’t an option due to time constraints, but I was determined not to let my circumstances define my future.
Online education became the perfect solution, offering the flexibility to study on my own schedule while still being present for my children. I was inspired by the opportunity to show them that no matter how challenging life gets, it’s possible to rise above and achieve your goals.
I got started by researching schools that aligned with my career goals and values. The University of Arizona Global Campus stood out for its support of non-traditional students like me. With guidance from admissions counselors and support from friends, I enrolled in my first class, nervous but excited to take this step toward a brighter future.
Since then, online education has empowered me to reclaim my life and build a strong foundation for myself and my children. It’s been a journey of resilience, growth, and rediscovering my potential.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
Pursuing my degree online as a single mom has been challenging, especially balancing schoolwork with parenting and rebuilding my life after surviving domestic violence. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and questioned whether I could manage it all.
I overcame these challenges by staying disciplined, setting a schedule, and leaning on my faith and determination. I also sought support from professors, peers, and loved ones when needed. Each challenge has strengthened my resilience and reminded me why I started this journey—to create a better future for my children and myself.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
Balancing online courses with family responsibilities requires careful planning and flexibility. I create a weekly schedule to allocate time for studying, family, and other priorities. I focus on staying organized, setting clear goals, and tackling assignments early whenever possible.
Communication has also been key—I let my children know when I need quiet study time, and I maximize moments when they’re occupied to focus on coursework. Online education’s flexibility has been a blessing, allowing me to adapt my schedule as needed while staying committed to both my family and my education.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
One of the biggest benefits of online education is the flexibility it offers. I can tailor my study schedule around my responsibilities as a parent, which wouldn’t be possible with traditional on-campus learning. It also allows me to learn at my own pace and access resources from anywhere, saving time and money on commuting.
Additionally, online learning has helped me develop strong self-discipline and time-management skills. The experience has been empowering, as it provides the opportunity to achieve my goals without sacrificing my family or other priorities.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
Staying motivated in my online classes is deeply personal for me. As the first woman in my family to attend college, I am driven by the desire to set an example for my children and break barriers for future generations. This milestone inspires me to keep going, even during challenging times.
To stay engaged, I set specific goals for each class and celebrate small victories along the way. I also stay connected with my instructors and classmates through discussion boards and email, which helps me feel part of a community. Time management, organization, and creating a dedicated study space have been key strategies to ensure my success. Most importantly, I remind myself of why I started this journey and the opportunities it will create for my family and me.
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?
Both organizations signify hope, inclusion, and innovation for students pursuing online education. They recognize the unique challenges online learners face, such as isolation and limited opportunities for social engagement, and work to create a sense of belonging and community.
By bridging the social gap, these organizations provide more than just support; they empower students to connect, collaborate, and grow as leaders, even in a virtual setting. Their efforts highlight the importance of fostering unity and making the college experience accessible to everyone, no matter their educational format.
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
As a woman who grew up with her faith in tow , I’ve always valued the importance of community and serving others. Socializing and networking are opportunities to build meaningful relationships and create a positive impact, which aligns with my commitment to stewardship in all aspects of life.
Participating in events focused on networking and community service allows me to connect with others, exchange ideas, and contribute to causes greater than myself. These experiences are not just about personal growth but also about uplifting those around me and fostering a spirit of unity and purpose.
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.