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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.
Western Governor's University
May 5, 2023
Tenia Wilson
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?
my only option to get the degree I wanted was to go online. My husband and I are a two-income family and going down to one income for me to pursue my college degree wasn't an option. However, it was hard to find an online program for the degree I wanted. If it wasn't for a coworker of mine telling me bout this particular program I would never have the degree I have right now.
What challenges have you faced while pursuing your degree online, and how have you overcome them?
my final attempt at getting my degree online was the 3rd attempt. The previous attempt was rushed, I worked more than I studied and the financial aspect was a little hard but doable. I quit two jobs for the convenience of getting a degree and realizing that our household couldn't do that i had to go back work. at this point I had to wait on the right time, and some would say there's never a right time. However, I had to wait and waiting was the best thing for me and my family.
How have you balanced your online coursework with other responsibilities, such as work or family?
My family was the best. My husband picked up a lot of the responsibilities that I wasn't able to handle because of studying, testing, or clinical. I missed so many birthdays, parties, and family get-togethers because of having to be out of town, or not getting a break like traditional colleges. My calendar went with me everywhere I went. I wrote down everything from dental/doctor appointments to when I had my next test to when I had clinical so I could show my boss. I needed many days off and my job was so accommodating of that.
What have you found to be the benefits of pursuing a college education online, compared to traditional on-campus learning?
For me, I was still able to work my regular schedule and earn money to maintain my bills. I also got through my coursework on my own time, whether I was faster than normal or falling behind. my online professor, I felt, wanted to make sure that we, as adult learners, had the resources we needed to pass every class.
How have you stayed motivated and engaged in your online classes, and what strategies have you used to ensure your success?
I was motivated to keep up because I didn't have to worry about the house because my husband and kids handled that. I stayed motivated because I wanted the paper that would have my name on it stating that i earned it. I stayed motivated because I knew financially I was going to have a leg up. I stayed motivated because I had a good group of ladies in my class that kept it together and we never let each other fail. I stayed motivated because this degree was something i wanted and needed for a long time. I also stayed motivated because my calendar told me to.
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 a lot, knowing that those who couldn't or didn't follow the traditional path can still belong to an organization that wants to see them do better for the community and for themselves. it makes someone like me not feel inadequate or less than others because life got in the way.
What significance does socializing, networking, and participating in events focused on networking and community service hold for you?
Honestly, I love them. They give me a chance to meet great people, share ideas, and give back in a way that feels real and impactful.
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.