“It takes a village” are words you may not associate with the beginning of graduate school, but for me, truer words have never been said. As I sat in the New Student Orientation for the Higher Education Administration Doctoral Program at SCSU, Dr. McCullar mentioned children. He slightly joked that someone in the room would welcome a child during the program. A classmate, and now close friend, grimaced at the words, but inside I was bursting with a secret. I discovered I was pregnant that morning with my second child. The next couple of months brought with them excitement and challenges.

Looking back on that August day, I did not know my cohort members or faculty, but they’ve quickly become like family. As classes progressed, cohort members became friends and a large part of my support system. We span different time zones, various positions within higher ed, and each has our own families at home. It can be a slight challenge trying to navigate a doctoral program while raising an infant and a toddler. However, I have never doubted my ability to succeed because of the support within my home life and this program.

In countless class discussions, I have smiled as classmates and faculty proudly show off their fluffy pets or give updates on the busy schedules of their children. I have been fortunate to have both of my sons appear on many zooms and they have even been given the nicknames “Meatball” and “Porkchop” from a classmate. I could not imagine how I would have been able to participate in class without the willingness of my faculty members to have my children pop-up on the screen.

I could not imagine how I would have been able to participate in class without the willingness of my faculty members to have my children pop-up on screen.

Dr. Williams was actually one of the first people I notified that I was going to the hospital. I was in frantic worry about finishing my final paper due the following week. She replied instantly with words of encouragement and flexibility. Unfortunately, COVID has brought an additional set of challenges. I am thankful to have my Advisor Dr. Friedensen regularly checking-in on how we are doing academically, but also mentally and emotionally.

I look forward to future classes and anticipate the same level of support from the faculty members we haven’t had the privilege to learn from as of yet (due to our course rotation). I feel honored to be a part of this program. I am motivated to succeed for my future, but also for my children. I look forward to them being a part of my graduation and know it was made possible thanks to my “village”.

The SCSU higher education programs were made for students like Molly-Ann… You know, (prospective) students like you. Visit us online to learn more!