1. Challenges
1.1. I took advantage of Pell grants throughout my education
1.1.1. I received a 40% tuition discount due to a transfer agreement between the 2 colleges I attended
1.1.1.1. My biggest challenge was paying for school
2. Benefits of My Education
2.1. Although spirituality is unique to everyone, recognizing personal values is universally significant to finding meaning in life
2.1.1. I learned that I experience my strongest spiritual connection when I am surrounded by natural elements
2.1.1.1. Aside from the knowledge I gained related to the Human Resources field, I also learned important lessons about myself and others
3. My Progress
3.1. My confidence has greatly improved
3.1.1. Now I have a completely different perspective on life. I don’t view goals as negative challenges to fear, but as opportunities to learn and grow.
3.1.1.1. Prior to going back to school, I was scared to apply myself because I had a fear of failing.
4. Graduating with my associate's degree in Human Services gave me the confidence to broaden my education and pursue a different bachelor's degree in Human Resources here at Ottawa University
5. Support System
5.1. My two biggest cheerleaders have been my mom and my boyfriend
5.1.1. My boyfriend helped me convert our den into an office so I could have my own private study area
5.1.1.1. Their emotional support helped me be successful as a student
6. Motivation
6.1. At 36 years old I found myself dissatisfied with my dead- end job
6.1.1. I decided to make some life changes and I attended a local technical college
7. Moving Forward
7.1. Deciding to get a liberal arts education was the best decision I have ever made
7.1.1. I t has opened my eyes to appreciate the
7.1.2. Even though I faced challenges, my motivation and support system helped me overcome them. The lessons I have learned here have helped me become a more well- rounded individual
7.1.2.1. I look forward to applying and developing the skills and knowledge I have learned here at Ottawa University as I continue my professional journey.