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.
Western Governor's University
February 20, 2026
Dominique Brown
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?
I was motivated to pursue an online college education when I decided to go back for graduate studies and knew I didn't have the time capacity to do so in person. I wanted to show my children that pursuing a higher education was possible. I began my pursuit of my masters in 2013 by calling a school that offered hybrid, in person, and online programs.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
Being a mother of four, I think time commitments have been the biggest challenge. I want to do it all, I have good intentions, but something always feels like it doesn't get done correctly. I think allowing myself grace and having supportive people around me has helped me to oversome so many challenges that could have broken me.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
I set scheduled dates and times for school work, professional commitments, and personal engagements. I live by a really strict schedule.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
I enjoy the flexibility of signing online to complete an assignment on my own time. I also like being able to show my kids different assignments I have worked on and have be part of this journey with me.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
I set quartely goals for myself both professionally and personally. I think keeping my goals in increments of 3 month stretches allows me to really feel like they are manageable and not feel overwhelmed.
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?
I think it is such a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge that online learning is here to stay and social networks have to evolve with the change. I think it is innovative and important for students, in any capacity, to feel that sense of belonging.
What significance do socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
I think it allows me to feel like I belong to something bigger than myself. It allows me to know that I am part of a team committed to doing more and serving in spaces that need it most.
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.