What did you learn about your own capabilities through the rigor of your coursework? Were there any moments in particular that pushed you to grow?
Much of my life has been filled with my lack of confidence in myself and an inability to fit in in many situations. I wasn’t sure that I would fit in or be able to complete a college degree. To be able to interact with instructors and other students — all of whom were much younger than me — and have them actually want to hear what I have to say was such a boost to my confidence and helped me realize that I did have something worthwhile to say.
One moment that stands out is speaking in front of my in-person Spanish class, explaining who I was and what my hobbies are — all in Spanish! It was nerve-wracking, but also a surprise to me that I could do it and do it well.
Over my time at HES, realizing that people valued who I was and that I could fit in at college has allowed me to venture out alone to do more volunteer work, attend classes at the local senior center, and have more confidence in myself.
If you could go back in time and talk to who you were before you started at HES, what would you say?
I would tell myself to stop procrastinating! I would also tell myself that I am smart enough to earn my degree and I have the ability to share my thoughts with classmates and instructors, who would all be interested in what I had to say.
How did you fit your education into your life? (Working full/part time, balancing with other responsibilities, meeting the on-campus requirement, etc.)
My first three years at HES included classes, working full-time, taking care of my elderly mother, and trying to have some time with my two adult daughters and husband.
I was fortunate that my family was supportive and was able to work from home, before remote work was so common. I would get up at 5 a.m., either get some work done or watch a video lecture, spend time on homework, take care of my mother, and then be in constant motion for 18 hours a day.
The on-campus requirement, however, was much more difficult; when I took the first two on-campus classes, one met one evening a week and the next one met two evenings a week. Because of where I live, I had to leave my house at 1 p.m. for a 5:30 class, and leave the class to run for the last train of the day back home.
For my next on-campus class, I decided to take a weekend course. Although that was intense with all the content completed in one weekend, it worked best for my schedule and needs.
I took a few years off and, after I retired, I returned to my ALB program. I’m so glad I came back. I was determined to get my bachelor’s degree before age 80 and I did it with one year to spare! Somehow, everything got done.
Describe your Extension experience in one word:
Affirming.
