By Tricia Ashman, Oakland University alumna
I earned my associate degree at Macomb Community College in 1993. I planned to pursue my bachelor’s degree, but then life happened. I had a full-time job. I got married and was raising three kids. But, completing my degree was a personal goal.
In 2016, I met with Oakland University Academic Adviser Lindsay Zeig at the University Center (UC). Lindsay told me that Oakland University’s (OU) bachelor of integrative studies degree would allow me to transfer 88 credits, meaning I only needed to take 32 credits at OU. And, I could customize my courses for those 32 credits. I wanted to use my writing and interpersonal skills, so I chose communication and human resource development courses.
OU was a great choice for my bachelor’s degree. I was able to juggle my work and family commitments, taking evening courses at the UC with online courses. And, the OU faculty were incredibly understanding of my needs as a non-traditional student.
Earning my degree at 47 showed my kids it’s okay to accept life’s detours and it’s never too late to achieve your goals. With my OU degree and 30 years of professional experience, I’m ready to take on new career opportunities.
Learn more about Oakland University at the Macomb University Center: https://www.macomb.edu/future-students/choose-program/university-center/oakland-university.html