“I would like to encourage anyone no matter their age or their situation, to take that opportunity to learn. The knowledge I have gained has given me a better understanding of life and the people we encounter.”
What your year and major?
Sophomore year majoring in Social Work.
What is your anticipated graduation date?
Spring of 2027.
Why did you choose the Mount?
I chose the Mount because of the social work program. I was impressed with the campus. I was able to visit the campus while still attending Cincinnati State. This was an opportunity to speak directly to staff and get a personal tour of the campus facilities. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone considering the Mount. The Mount campus is compact and easily navigated. This was of importance to me because I just did not want to attend a large university.
How did the Mount help accommodate your transfer needs?
The Mount was understanding as they walked me through the process of transferring from Cincinnati State. I had previously been enrolled at Chatfield College. Making the transition of Chatfield to Cincinnati State was a bit of challenge. Chatfield was a had one building and only two floors. The transition from Cincinnati State to the Mount was made easier after adjusting the large campus of Cincinnati State. The Mount accommodated all my transfer needs with little to no challenges for myself. I found the whole experience to be extremely easy and thorough. The advisors were considerate when recommending courses. I was informed what courses were available and what courses I would need to take through graduation.
Are you involved in any student organizations or extracurriculars? If so, how have these supported your academic success?
I am not involved in any student organizations or extracurricular activities. I am looking forward to field trips that are offered through the social work program. I feel these trips will be valuable in my academic success.
How do you manage your course load along with other obligations?
Managing twelve credit hours a semester has been challenge at times. I have other obligations that require my attention during the day. What I found that worked best was to complete those tasks in the morning and in the early afternoon. That would free up my evenings where I could dedicate that time to nothing but my assignments. This required a degree of discipline and time management. Discipline was the biggest hurdle. I wanted to succeed. I felt a responsibility to those who supported and encouraged my endeavor. I have been so blessed to receive numerous grants and scholarships. There is a responsibility to do the best I can to show the appreciation for these contributions to my education.
Are there any staff or professors you would like to credit who helped accommodate your transfer experience?
There are three individuals who were there to assist me through the transfer process that I would like to acknowledge. Betty Richards was the transfer advisor from Cincinnati State. I was so impressed with her enthusiasm. Professor Jennifer Withrow has been an amazing support and advisor. She walked me through the whole social work program. Her believe in the program and her enthusiasm certainly increased my desire to continue down the path in social work. Amy Wolf was a huge help when it came to questions about completing forms, getting ID’s and all the other stuff that comes with registration.
Describe one of your favorite memories at the Mount so far.
This may sound funny, but I have had several moments that were special to me. Going back to school at my age has presented it’s own set of challenges and doubts. I wanted to pursue my education but I also wanted to enjoy the college experience. During my first semester I would eat dinner in the dining hall. Sitting at the table and watching all those young people gather in groups made me feel a part of the community. I remember going to the library between classes to study and do research. I remember one time the Mount’s mascot was outside the Seton Center. I could not resist getting my picture taken with the Lion. I proudly sent the photo to all my friends and family.
What advice would you give to someone looking to transfer to the Mount?
I would advise anyone to visit, talk to the administration staff and the professors. Get involved in the college experience.
What was your experience like connecting with students on campus?
Connecting with students on campus has been one of the best experiences. The age difference between myself and the other students is quite substantial. I can honestly say that I have never felt left out or overlooked because of that difference. In all the courses I have taken the relationship between myself and other students has been positive. The generation gap brings out questions and discussions that might not have happened if this age difference did not exist.
Can you describe your experience with the transfer scholarships and applying for them?
This is one area that I need the most assistance. I had experience with completing the financial paperwork from previous colleges. The paperwork never gets easier and the Mount was extremely helpful in providing me with the latest information. I feel so blessed to have received the scholarships and grants. I do not take them for granted.
How has the Mount supported you so far?
The support and understanding I have received from Professors to staff has gotten me out of situations more than once. The professors are always there to answer questions. I have used the tutoring program and found it extremely helpful. The library staff was so eager to assist on research papers. The support has been academic to finding that “lost” classroom.
Anything else you want to share about your experience?
I would like to encourage anyone no matter their age or their situation, to take that opportunity to learn. The knowledge I have gained has given me a better understanding of life and the people we encounter. I took a course in biology on cells. For weeks I went around and held my hand up to friends and family and asked them, “Do you know what is going on in there?” I can’t wait to see what comes next.