Showing posts with label Real Student Stories. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Real Student Stories. Show all posts
JaShondra Kenney, 30
Fort Valley State University

Major: Organizational Leadership
Expected Graduation: May 2016

Why is completing your degree important to you?
It is important to me because it was always one of my biggest dreams to get my Bachelor's degree. Not from just any institution but from Fort Valley State University. My dream was put on hold after I had my son in 2008 and was no longer able to physically attend classes on the FVSU campus. This degree is important for my growth as well as the growth of my children. I want them to understand that even when life throws you curve balls, you can still dodge them and win the game.


What are your career goals?
I plan to start Grad school in about 6 months and get my Master's in Human Resources. From there, I plan to move up with the company I currently work for.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? 
Growing up, I wanted to be a psychologist because I loved helping people with their problems.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eMajor? 
Because it was the perfect opportunity for me to finally realize my dream.

What eMajor class has been your favorite? 
My favorite eMajor class was Desktop Publishing

How would you describe the instructors you've had in your eMajor classes? 
Most of them were easy to talk to and communicate with, but some were hard and made my life a little stressful.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
I work full-time as an Office Coordinator, and part-time from home as a Data Entry Clerk. In my free time I'm spending as much time as I can with my kids, doing hair (when my schedule permits), and just overall trying to enjoy life.

How and when do you make time for your schoolwork?
I do my homework on my lunch break, some weeknights, and on the weekends.

Who inspires you and why?
My mother inspires me because she's strong, hard-working, and a go-getter. As a single mother, my mother worked multiple jobs to make sure her children had and that she had. She was hard on us, but her being hard made us all push harder to be great. She retired, went back to school and got her Bachelor's in Business Administration then turned right back around and got her MBA - all while she was coming out of retirement and returning to work. Her strength inspires me every single day.

What would you say to someone who is considering an online degree through eMajor? 
I would tell them to go for it. It's convenient and it's a great way to get that education that you've always wanted.
Sheroni spending time with her husband and
their 2-year old daughter at the museum.











Sheroni Cunningham
Age: 25
Middle Georgia State University

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
It will help me excel past current barriers that limit me to jobs that require a degree. [Completing my degree] will also help me be a better example to my daughter to finish what you begin, try your hardest, be honest with yourself and do what is best for you.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eCore?
I am currently a full-time employee at Goodwill of North Georgia, living in Snellville, Georgia. My eCore class allows me flexibility to complete studying at work like a work-study program, allowing webcam interaction with my professor from another wonderful university, who has been extremely helpful thus far. [There is no need to] commute to MGA, which is a two-hour drive from my home and a 3 hour drive from work. I'm able to gain the information I need using all of my time the best I can to gain a degree working from home, work, or wherever I am with my laptop.

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eCore classes?
Excellent. He made himself very accessible through both email and the discussion board, which gives a personal flare. The videos and website have all been helpful in teaching me exactly what I need to know. I have thoroughly enjoyed this course thus far. I actually feel like a chemist, fully grasping all the concepts being taught and gaining full understanding as to how these lessons apply to everyday life.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
Working full-time, being a full-time mother to a very active 2-year-old daughter, and being a full-time wife to my husband of 2 years. I attend church throughout the week and watch services we miss due to work.

How and when do you make time to spend on your schoolwork?
I have my book now so when I am not able to get to a computer, I will study the lessons that are approaching. I will write out the agendas that are to be taught throughout the most current units, gather the most information I can from my book, and then compare the book information to the information provided by my professor. Any information that I need to add to my notes, such as examples and formulas for certain types of solutions, I make time to create those additional notes. I spend most of my free time throughout the week studying: during the morning, my lunch at work, and evening. I spend my off days conquering as much information I possibly can.

What has been the best thing about your eCore experience?
Flexibility. I can pick up where I left off at any given time.


What would you say to someone who is considering taking his or her first online class through eCore?
I would tell them that while it is flexible, it is important that you are committed to your own personal success. Making sure that you understand the information, concepts, formulas, and overall information being presented so that when major tests come around such as midterms and finals, you won't have to stress because you will be sure you know exactly what you need to know. Give yourself time to make sure you have fully studied before all homework and quizzes. Study everything at least three times; you won't go wrong. Communicate with your classmates and professors. While you may be in an online course, by no means are you alone.
The journey to a college degree is not always an easy one, but Codee Burton is enjoying it every step of the way. He is fortunate...He has a strong support system, which can make you or break you during your college career. He also makes the most of his free time, which creates a good work-life balance. Too much work can be hard on the soul. 


What is your occupation?  
I work at the Drury Inn and Suites in Valdosta, GA.

What is your college major?  
My major is Organizational Leadership, emphasis on Public Relations.

Why did you choose to take courses through eMajor?  
I like eMajor because it makes college, with all of it's challenges both in and out of the classroom, just a little bit more convenient. More importantly the professors and advisors on campuses are what make it so easy and accessible to use. I haven't had one professor that hasn't been more than willing to do what it takes to see us succeed throughout the course.

Who is the biggest inspiration for your education?  
The biggest inspiration for my education is my family. Most of my family did not have the opportunity to attend a college or university; many of them that did, didn't finish. This pushes me to keep going and get that degree! My grandfather, Pappy, has told me thousands of times how he didn't finish school and how he wishes he could have. I don't like regret, and his advice has always been an inspiration for everything I have done in my life. My other main source of inspiration is my Mom; she never let me quit anything. At a very young age I did not appreciate that or a lot of the things my mother did for me. Now, I cannot imagine what, or more importantly WHO, I would be without her. She is the fuel that drives me to be better than I was yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

What is something cool you've learned this semester in your eMajor class?  
One cool thing I learned this semester was how to build a "blog website." I had a class where the entire semester was to make a website, specifically a blog, and we were to "make it our own." It was overwhelming at first but then as it started to fall together I was actually kind of surprised at the end product.

What three words would you use to describe your online instructor?  
Dedicated, Sincere, Caring. eMajor instructors are how all college professors should be. They care about the well-being and education of each and every student they have. 

Where is your favorite place to visit in the USA?  
My favorite places to visit in the US of A is by far Atlanta, GA and Bristol, TN. This is where my ever so inspiring and supportive family live. My brother, mom, and stepfather are in Atlanta. I love seeing them when I get to come home. The rest of my family is in Bristol - my dad, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, etc. I get up there once a year around Christmas and love every second I get to spend with them!  

What kind of mood are you in right now, and why?  
Right now my mood is wonderful. Haha! I am watching Christmas movies, I have the day off, just finished school, planned a hunting trip next week, fishing trip at the end of the month, and in a couple weeks it will be Christmas! Hard to be in a bad mood at this point.

What is your favorite study spot?  
I don't have a favorite study spot, but I do the majority of studying at either my or my girlfriend's house.  

What is something your online classmates don't know about you?  
Something my online classmate's don't know about me would be that I was President of the Delta Chi Fraternity, Valdosta State Chapter from 2011-2012. 

What are your career plans beyond eMajor?  
My career plans are loose at this point, but I do have a few options. I want to stay in the business/sales department. Ever since I can remember I have been told, "you were a natural-born salesman." I rejected it at first, I think because it was the "beaten path" taken by many friends and family of mine. But as I have realized, sales is a great way to go!

Is there anything interesting you would like to share about yourself?  
I am an avid sports fan, athlete, and live to play my favorite sports; football, basketball, baseball/softball, and tennis. I have collected over 20 championships at VSU over the past years and have even traveled around the state of Georgia and Florida for annual tournaments that we WON! Recently I picked up the game of Disc Golf and won a tournament earlier this year as well as placed in my first sanctioned tournament.   


All of this has been a remarkable journey that I could not have completed without my friends and family. Buddy, my step dad, has never let me think any less of myself than he does, and although he won't admit it,  I hung the moon to him. He and my brother, Maks, are so much alike, without them it would be hard to keep on going and finish this wild ride that we call college. Of course, Pappy and Bobba are always there for an inspiring, feel-good sentiment whenever I call. My mom, like mentioned before, has never let me quit and always pushed me to do better and be better even when I thought I was at my best or my worst. It would be impossible to say that I would be the man I am today without them. 

Thank you for all of your support!
Emily Delano
Age: 17
Clayton State University

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
Completing my college degree is important to me because I want to be able to support myself in the future and have a secure job. 

Why did you choose to take online classes through eCore?
I chose online classes through eCore because I wanted to take multiple college classes in high school before I actually started college. I chose online because they are flexible classes that I can easily work in with my high school schedule. 

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eCore classes?
The instructors are really great. They email you very often and clarify any problems a student may be having through emails or discussion posts. They are all very helpful, supportive, and always have open communication with students. 

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
Besides being a high school and college student, I work at a local small business a couple days a week. I am also a speaker and leader at my church. I spend a lot of time with my family and friends. My favorite hobby is reading. 

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
I make time to spend on my school work (eCore work) at night after I have finished my high school homework and studying. Either that or I clear my schedule and work on my eCore lessons right when I get home from school. 

What has been the best thing about your eCore experience?
The best thing about my eCore experience has been the flexibility that the online classes offer. I can work on homework or take quizzes at any time during the day. I can finish an entire lesson at my own pace and start the next lesson right after. 

What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class through eCore?
Commit yourself to the process of online classes. Log in multiple times a week! Stay up to date [with] what is due, when tests are, and when quizzes are! That is the best way to be successful in online classes. 
Regina Dean
Age: 24
Valdosta State University

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
Graduating with my degree is important to me because being a nurse is something I have wanted since I was little. Now that I'm a wife and mom I want to make my boys proud of me and do something for myself while helping others.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eCore?
I am a stay at home mom and enjoy chasing my one year old around all day. Once I start the second half of my bachelor’s degree I will be busy and won't see my little boy much. Online classes mean I get to spend all day with my son and still go to school at night when he's asleep.

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eCore classes?
My instructors have all been very vocal through online discussions, and interact with the students more than just grading and assigning work, more so than other online classes through other colleges I have attended.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
I spend my days chasing my one year old, attempting to work out and keep a clean house. When I finally escape the house my family enjoys camping, fishing, hiking and sports.

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
Every night after my family has dinner and my son is asleep I work on school work. Sometimes it requires leaving dishes in the sink and toys all over the floor, but at 8pm on the dot I start homework, Monday through Friday, just as I would if I were in an actual class.

What has been the best thing about your eCore experience?
It's amazing that eCore gives you free textbooks [in some classes]; textbooks are e-text books so you can take your assignments anywhere without having to take anything other than your computer! My family is vacationing this summer when I should be in classes and I will be able to take my laptop and do everything in my hotel room at night!


What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class through eCore?
Just because it's an online class does not mean that it’s easy. Online classes require a lot of work, time management and since you are not listening to a teacher talk all of your knowledge comes from reading the text so you MUST read ALL of the assigned readings to get a good grade!

Tara Brown with her husband and two children.

Tara Brown, 39
School: Dalton State College
Major:  Organizational Leadership
Expected Graduation: May 2016

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
I feel that having a degree makes you more competitive in a job search. It’s also a sense of accomplishment to finish my degree because no one else in my family has a degree.



What are your career goals?
I am lucky that I already have a great job. My degree will allow me more opportunities in my field.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A secretary in a doctor’s office. I actually took my dream a step further and am now in leadership with physician practices.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eMajor?
To have the flexibility to do my schoolwork when it’s convenient for me. It also allows me to take more credit hours at a time and still work a full time job and have a family.

What eMajor class has been your favorite?
I like all of my eMajor classes because they are relevant to my day to day work.

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eMajor classes?
They have all been extremely helpful.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
I work full time, am a mom to two kids and I’m a wife. I love to travel, shop, and read.

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
I have designated hours each day to do work. Most of the time it is evenings and weekends.

Who inspires you and why?
My husband inspires me. He finished his 4-year degree and has a great job. He is a hard worker and has an excellent work ethic.


What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class?
Be diligent about spending time on the assignments. It’s so easy to fall behind if you allow personal stuff to get in the way. 
Nalucha Shakalima
Age: 22
Albany State University

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
Completing my degree will open up opportunities for me and help me to achieve my dreams in life.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eCore?
I chose to take an eCore online class because it allowed me to have more flexibility with my already demanding nursing school schedule.

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eCore classes?
My instructor has been very organized, structured, helpful and professional.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
Working out, reading, volunteering, relaxing and meeting new people.

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
I set aside certain hours of my day to complete assignments for both my online and non-online classes. It ranges during the day to the night time.

What has been the best thing about your eCore experience?
The flexibility, my instructor, and interaction with classmates.

What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class through eCore?
Always read your syllabus to know when your assignments are due so you can stay on top of your work.

Cathryn with three of her eight grandchildren. 
Cathryn Vandiver
Age: 56
Institution: Dalton State College


Why is completing your college degree important to you?
Completing my college degree will be a dream come true! I started this journey over 37 years ago and did not finish. Since then, I have raised a family as a single parent for 14 years with three young children. I worked two jobs for many years, and I was a legal secretary for attorneys for over twenty years. I currently keep three of my grandchildren while my two daughters teach school. I want my college degree because I need it to pursue my ultimate goal, and to be an inspiration to others that it is never too late to learn and contribute to society! Thank you for the opportunity eCore gives students like me who could not otherwise attend classes in person to get their college degree.

Why did you choose to take online classes through eCore?
It was offered by the college I wanted to attend, Dalton State College.

How would you describe the instructors you've had in your eCore classes?
This is the first time I have ever had eCore or online classes before so it is very new to me. The two professors I have seem to really care about us succeeding and try very hard to explain any questions we have. So far, so good!

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
I keep three of my grandchildren, ages 2, 3, and 5. My hobby is studying the Bible and I spend time with my elderly aunt, age 81, who recently had two strokes. I have 8 grandchildren so I make sure I spend quality time with them also.

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
I spend a lot of time reading and I am one of those students who has to read first before I can discuss. I want to know what I am going to be discussing! I cannot skip to the specific point, I have to read the lesson. That is hard for me. I would say I spend at least four hours every day on eCore classes.

What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class through eCore?
That it’s great! It is taking me a little time to get to where I can discuss earlier in my weekly assignments but I am learning and the program is set up for just that, for us to learn! I highly recommend it and look forward to many more eCore classes. One big advantage, you have a calendar. There is nothing that can interfere like in a classroom. You know exactly what is expected of you and you do it! It certainly is the only way I can attend college at this stage in my life, and you meet lots of wonderful students in your discussions. If you don't need outside motivation, if you are focused on your goals at college, eCore might be the right answer for you!

What has been the best thing about your eCore experience?
The best thing about my eCore experience is bringing the classroom into my home so I can work on my lessons at my convenience. I am learning so much, and retaining, I believe, more than I do in a classroom. It seems to be working not only for a grade but for why I am here which is to learn!
What is your home institution and major?
Currently, I attend Valdosta State University, and I am pursuing a degree in Organizational Leadership.

How many eMajor courses have you taken?
To date, I've taken 7 courses with eMajor.

Why is completing your college degree important to you?
 I think a college degree is a necessity in today's society. The job market is extremely competitive, and so many of my peers are seeking top notch positions. When I look back on my life, I want to know I finished everything I started; I want to check the box on paperwork that asks if I graduated. If I do not finish, that box will haunt me with any application I submit: Mortgage, jobs, insurance, etc.

When is your expected graduation date?
My expected graduation date is June of 2015,  however, I am completing a concentration in Public Administration. This will be complete in December of 2015. Go big or go home.

What are your career goals?
Currently, I work in Human Resources. My goals include finishing this degree and moving to a Master’s program. I hope to obtain the Senior Professional in Human Resources certification as well.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a child, I first wanted to be Batman. When I found out that was not a possibility, I dabbled in multiple majors or career paths. No matter what major I would choose, I realized everything came back to people. Every path came back to assisting others. So... This is why I work in Human Resources and seek a degree in Leadership.

What eMajor class has been your favorite and what class are looking forward to the most?
So far, I really appreciated ACE2050 (Communications for Business). This course touched tremendously on the tasks that I complete on a day to day basis. The information accurately depicted the things everyone will need in the workforce. Also, it reviewed certain grammatical skills that one may forget over time. The refresher definitely increased my confidence with professional writing. I most look forward to ENGL 3030 (Professional Writing). Two reasons: First, this is my last English course. Second, I feel this will make my writing even better.

How would you describe the instructors you’ve had in your eMajor classes?
 I have so many friends who seek a degree but opt out because of nerves. I had friends explain horror stories of professors who were unjust. I've yet to experience this in eMajor. Every professor has executed all courses with understanding and offered assistance in any way possible. I've had the most pleasurable experience.

Besides being a college student, what do you spend your time doing?
 When I am not working or working on homework, I really love restoring trash objects into treasure. For instance, turning an old dresser into a Pottery Barn inspired television stand. I also love to spend time with friends and family. Also, I really love sport and especially college football and NASCAR.

How and when do you make time to spend on your school work?
I worked full time while I completed 19 semester hours. I earned a GPA of 3.9. People look at me as if I'm an alien or not human. The fact is, I am human. When I'm on lunch break at work, I read the chapters. I take several road trips with friends, and I write my papers in the back seat between destinations. Also, I push myself to do school Monday through Friday, so I still have a social life on weekends. I think the key in maintaining homework is to stay ahead. I sit every Monday and map out any assignments due and create a schedule. I think about what I can do even if I am not on the computer. I use technology to my advantage. I can access the site from my mobile phone or IPad. This saves so much time while posting discussion posts, etc.

Who or what inspires you and why?
Abraham Lincoln stated, "The best way to predict the future is to create it." I believe if I want a comfortable life and career, short term sacrifices equal long term happiness. The thought of vacationing in the Caribbean, buying a dream home, and my family make me strive to be the best I can be. I can't change the past, but I can change my future. I push myself and try to set an example for younger siblings.

She defines success very simply as "Putting forth your very best effort in everything you do." She exudes positivity. She is an inspirational, confident woman and an all-around great role model to her daughter and nephews. Meet eMajor student,  Kimberly Hobbs...

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? When I was a child there were quite a few careers that I thought I wanted to do when I grew up. My career choices were an astronaut, a veterinarian, and even a Dallas Cowboy Cheerleader! Although none of these ideas came to fruition, I am pleased with the career that I am in now because it allows me to help people as a Grant Writer & Administrator.

What is your college major? Organizational Leadership

Why did you choose eMajor? I chose eMajor because of the convenience of online courses. The fact that I could finish my degree without having to attend classes on campus, but could instead participate in classes according to my schedule was the reason I decided to enroll. I graduated high school in 1987 and have attended college off and on since then trying to earn a four-year degree. However, attending classes on campus while working and raising a family was difficult and my pursuit of an education always fell by the wayside. However, because eMajor affords me the ability to attend school around my everyday schedule, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. I will complete my degree this time. 

What are your career plans beyond eMajor? I have been very blessed in my career and I have a very rewarding job as a grant writer/administrator. My plans beyond eMajor are to continue to help people through grant writing. 

What is something cool you've learned this semester in your eMajor class? In my Introduction to Public Administration (POLS 3600) class, we had a case study about the debate over chocolate milk in Florida lunchrooms. There was a debate between the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture about whether or not chocolate milk should be served to school children. It was interesting to me that politics plays a role in so many things, even school lunches.

Where is your favorite place to visit in the USA? Washington DC. It is a beautiful city full of history and politics, two of my favorite things.

Who in history would you like to spend an hour with and what would you talk about? Dr. Martin Luther King. He was an amazingly brave man who had a vision of equality and worked tirelessly to spread his message. I would want to talk to him about his experiences and about how he changed America.

What song makes you sing when driving in your car? Why? Walking on Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves.  It is definitely old school, but every time it comes on the radio, I want to roll the windows down and sing because it is a happy song.

The most used appliance in your house is...........? The stove/oven. I enjoy cooking and consider myself somewhat of a foodie.


Who is the biggest inspiration for your education? My daughter. She is just completing her freshman year at VSU. Her desire to pursue her education inspired me to enroll in eMajor and to finish my degree.

Is there anything else interesting you would like to share about yourself? I am thankful that eMajor is available to non-traditional students such as me. Because of its availability, I will finally be able to complete a degree that I have been pursuing for 25+ years. 
What is your occupation?
I am currently a stay at home mom. My husband is deployed to Afghanistan so I decided being home with my son, Liam, and taking online classes would be best for him. 


What is your college major?
I am an Organizational Leadership major with an emphasis in Public Administration.

Who is the biggest inspiration for your education?
I would have to say that my mom always told me that I could be whatever I wanted to be and that was a huge inspiration. She always talked about how much fun school was and encouraged me to always do my best and I would succeed.

What are your career plans beyond eMajor?
Hopefully my family will be stationed in another country and I will have the opportunity to work on a base in public administration. I can't wait to get back into a professional environment.


What are two things most people don't know about you?
I am named after a Fleetwood Mac song, my daddy really loved Stevie Nix and all her music. Being named after one of her songs was as close as my mom would let him get. I am the first of my immediate family to graduate from high school.

Your definition of success is..............?
Happiness. I feel like no matter what you are doing in your life professionally, as long as you are happy I consider that success.

What are you planning on doing when it gets warm? 
I plan on playing outside a lot with my son, Liam, and my dog, Hukaah. Once my husband returns we will be outside enjoying ourselves as a family.

What would you tell the 10 year old you?
"Stop tattling on your brothers so much. It's not fair that you should share all their secrets just because your mom bribed you with cheese." Psst...Cheese was my favorite.

What is your least/most favorite word?
"Slice" UGHHHHH! That word just sounds like it causes so much pain.

My favorite place to visit in the United States is.........? Why?
I wouldn't say that I have a favorite place to visit, but my favorite place to drive through is Chattanooga, TN. There is a part as you drive through where there is a beautiful lake on the right side of you, and a mountain on the left side. Its right around a curve and I think its absolutely beautiful.

What is something interesting about you that those in your class would not know, that you would like to share?
Even though you can't tell from your computer screens, I am a very outgoing person. I love to have fun. My favorite jobs are being a mommy and a military wife.
She has grit and tenacity. She bravely faced major illness as a teen and is now taking on her education with the same fervor.

What is your occupation?
I am a college student, and as my parents put it... "That is your full-time job."

What is your college major?
My major is Anthropology. Most people ask what that is, so a brief definition that I always give is: Anthropology is the study of culture: past, present, and future. To me, the study of anthropology is the coolest thing to study, because it changes daily, you get to travel the world and meet new people, plus I love history and you learn A LOT of history!

Why eCore?
eCore became a really good path for me, because it allowed me to get extra classes and hours. I love to learn, and I am a veracious reader, so I feel like I will do well in this short session.

Who is the biggest inspiration for your education?
My biggest inspiration for education would actually be three people: My dad, my oldest brother Jonathan (I have three), and my Big Sis in my sorority, Amy. Each one of these people has influenced my ways of thought pertaining to education. Each one brings something new to the table, and all of their help has definitely helped me become the student I am today. My dad is very focused on facts and what he has seen, done, or learned. My brother does slightly the same, but he puts in a little more emotion and he taught me some fantastic ways to study and boost my grades.  Both of them have a love for learning that definitely was passed to me because of them.  As for my Big Sis Amy, she is one of the best people I know. She is about to graduate and become an elementary teacher, but although we have different career paths, she always helps me get to new levels on my road to success. She embodies the perfect teacher spirit, which I just love.  When we study together and I don't understand something, she helps me break it down into pieces that I understand, and then we put the "puzzle" back together.  They have all made learning fun and something that I love to do!

What is something cool you have learned this semester in eCore?
Well, this is actually my first session with eCore, so I haven't had a lot of time with it yet... But already I can sense that I will gain a lot of knowledge from this program.

What three words would you use to describe one of your online instructors?
Now that I have had a couple days to meet my teachers, I can say that each is unique, encouraging, and helpful! I really feel as if they truly care about my educational experience.


Where is your favorite place to visit in the USA?
I have had the opportunity to travel to California, New York, Philly, Boston, and Washington D.C., but my favorite place in the world would have to be Disney World in Orlando, Florida! My family of six (I am 1 of 4 kids...and the only girl) would take trips down there, and it was the only time we could all be together and enjoy being a family.  We went to all the parks in Orlando, but Disney holds the most memories!

What kind of mood are you in right now, and why?
I am in a great mood. I am reading and studying right now for my world history class, which I love. I find that it is a lot easier to study about something that fascinates you.

What is your favorite study spot?
I love to study outside in the warm sun, but when it gets cold I have a little corner that I sit in and can sit there for hours.

What is something your online classmates don't know about you?
I am secretly obsessed with an old Sci-fi show called Stargate SG-1. I can tell you all the names of the episodes, lines from each, and the most obscure characters names from all 10 seasons plus the movies they made.

Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself?
I am only 20 years old, and to many that is still a pretty young age, but I have had to grow up a lot faster than other people. When I was 14, I was in and out of the hospital for a year and a half having over 9 surgeries. I do not have a large intestine.  I know that this usually gets me the "WHOA, are you serious?” face. This event in my life changed me, not just physically. Yes, I do battle problems still on a daily basis. Yes, I almost died, but if I hadn't had the support system and encouragement from the people around me during this hard time, I would not be the person I am today. My mom and I began to say a phrase to each other, especially when I was not having a good day or was in a lot of pain, and that phrase is Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Although during my hard times I really had trouble believing in the big guy upstairs, the simplicity of my mom looking at me, holding my hand, and saying 4:13 was enough to keep me pushing and fighting for my life. Without her or the rest of my family and friends, I would not be here today. These two simple things, family and friends, changed my life forever and kept me alive.