Testimonials & Student Stories | UofL Online Programs

Student Spotlight: RN-BSN Concurrent Enrollment Program Student Answers All of Our Questions

By Conner Mackowiak | August 1, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

Meet Latisha Wilson! Latisha is a Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS) student from Henderson Community who has recently completed two of the Concurrent Enrollment Program (CEP) courses offered online by UofL’s School of Nursing. We asked her some questions about her experience with our Concurrent Enrollment Program—let’s read her responses below!

Why did you select our CEP program?

Latisha: I selected the UofL CEP program because I like the idea of being able to finish a little faster achieving my goal. I also liked that I did not have a break with school because it kept me determined and focused. The online program has deadlines but also, it is self-paced and works for busy schedules. I am a single mother that juggles many schedules and this program worked for me.

What did you enjoy most about the program?

Latisha: University of Louisville is my favorite sports team and I loved being able to attend this school as a fan. I enjoyed doing the research for case studies in my Pharm and Patho class and learning about EBP [Evidence-based practice]. I am enrolled at HCTC in the nursing program, and I will graduate in December of 2023 with an associate in nursing. I liked the opportunity and challenge of being able to start working on my BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) while working for my associates. This program gave me that opportunity to do so, while most programs you must wait to start after you pass your NCLEX.

Do you feel the program provided you with the skills and experience necessary to be successful in your career?

Latisha: I do feel like the program so far has been successful at what it expects you to achieve. My goal is to be a clinical educator, and the teachings on EBP and leadership will be needed for me to move forward in teaching others. I am already a step ahead in learning about leadership which will be the focus in my last semester of nursing school.

Would you recommend the program? If so, why?

Latisha: Yes, I recommend the program to other students that are enrolled in 2 programs like me that know exactly what they want to accomplish. It gives you the opportunity to get your BSN faster and it is self-paced. You can take one class or four at a time, and the program has a scholarship that aids in attending school.

What would you tell others considering this program?

Latisha: I would tell others that if they are confident in achieving their goal and if the opportunity presents itself, take it. I enrolled in four classes this summer and I am doing great, but it takes discipline and being determined to achieve that goal. The program might not be for everyone and that is okay, because it is a lot to add on. Some people may need breaks in between classes, and some do not. You just must see what works for you. The process is not always easy, but it is doable with kids and a job.

Where are you currently working/what is next in life for you?

Latisha: I currently work at Owensboro Health on the rehab unit with a lot of stroke patients as a nurse extern and CNA. I plan to get certified in working with stroke patients. My goal is to work as a floor nurse but also work towards becoming a clinical educator and going further with my master’s degree.

We are thankful to Latisha for her thoughtful answers to our questions and for taking the time to share her experience with us! You can learn more about the RN-BSN CEP program here.

Breaking Generational Curses Through Education

By Conner Mackowiak | July 27, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

The fifth century Chinese philosopher Laozi once said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” For Kenovia Haggerty, that single step was more of a leap of faith.

Kenovia lived in Houston, Texas with her husband, JaRon, and their two beautiful children, Kylah, and JJ. The two had built a good life together; respectable careers, thriving children, and a home. But what happens when “good enough,” is no longer enough? For Kenovia, that moment of self-discovery sparked one day, at her job right before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Kenovia graduated college with a passing GPA and had accepted a job as a steppingstone to future opportunities. After spending some time in that role, Kenovia began to realize the limitations of what her current skillset could offer an employer, and where she could take that career with some additional human resources education. Knowing that graduate school was likely in her future, she began conversations with her husband (who was also preparing to start graduate school) about what the next chapter of their lives would entail.

Their journey to success was a long, winding road that lasted about 2 years, fraught with trial and tribulation, taking them far away from their home state and any kind of family support. The beautiful result of these efforts was two highly accomplished individuals that together have cemented and solidified their manifestation of a lifetime of opportunity, both for themselves and for their family.

Overcoming barriers

Kenovia had some doubts; her undergraduate academic background was not the strongest when she began applying to master’s programs. With concerns about how her GPA could impact her acceptance into master’s programs, the application process to other schools was daunting. Kenovia said, “[I] had some transferable skills from being in banking and in management, but none in HR, so I saw the online Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development (MS HROD) program at UofL as an opportunity to fill in some of those gaps. Then I thought that I would be able to log in when I needed to, and I’d have that support to get through it.”

Kenovia did not receive a ton of initial support from her family; some in her extended family felt that graduate education would only lead to more student debt, and that pursuing additional education was not the wisest endeavor. Her biggest supporter was JaRon, who encouraged her to consider all options and choose whichever one would provide the most growth opportunity for their family. Though they would be studying at different institutions, they would be undergoing the journey together. “It was very important for us to find a program that was SHRM-aligned, because her goals were to circumvent this learning curve so that [she] can move up quickly, and become more marketable,” JaRon notes.

Taking the first step

For Kenovia, a pivotal conversation was with Ron Sheffield, Ed.D., and the program director for UofL’s online MS HROD program. Sheffield provided her with the comfort and knowledge that she would be supported throughout her endeavors to achieve an MS in HROD degree. “He was awesome. I just felt like, OK, this could be a little family here. If I need help, I’ll be able to get it and that this program could fit into the type of lifestyle I was about to have,” Kenovia notes. Another pillar of support in this journey was the faith in God the couple shared together. “Me and my husband believe in making sure that our decisions are led by us praying and taking our time with things. Our big prayer was to find a program that could fit our new lifestyle.”

JaRon had already been accepted with a full-ride scholarship to an MBA program at a different institution in Bloomington, and with Louisville being located relatively close, the two packed up their lives in Texas and made the long journey north, arriving at their new, temporary home in Indianapolis. From there, the two settled into their new routine, juggling their education with the needs of work and their children. Kenovia, especially, had to manage life as a self-described “temporarily single parent,” except for instances where JaRon was able to return from Bloomington to spend time with the family.

Getting to the goal line together

Years of effort and hard work finally paid off this summer, when Kenovia finally graduated with a MS in Human Resources and Organization Development from UofL, and JaRon graduated with an MBA. Now, the two can look forward with confidence and momentum to all that is coming next for their family, with a world of opportunity in front of them.

When asked about what they would recommend to others in a similar situation, Kenovia shared, “Prioritize your time, and if you do have a partner, keep the lines of communication open about everything that you’re feeling, because we had some really hard times trying to keep us together with trying to keep the goal at the forefront.”

For the time being, the two are moving again, heading up to Chicago to take on this next chapter in their lives. Kenovia plans to work out of a Merchants Bank of Indiana branch near their new home. “I do feel like the program is helping advance my career. I started off as a HR analyst initially and then I just got promoted this year to HR generalist. Right now, I am helping with orientation, training, and all these different things that I can do. I feel like UofL’s online program gave me the confidence I needed.”

We are grateful to Kenovia for sharing her story with us; she and JaRon have worked together to craft a life story they are proud of. “We feel like we broke some generational curses with both of us having the education that we have and our kids being able to see that and that is rewarding,” Kenovia and JaRon note. They are a living testament to the fact that, no matter where you are in life, you can dream big, accomplish your goals, and better your family’s future.

If you want to take the next step in your life’s journey like Kenovia, you can click here and learn more about the Master of Science in Human Resources and Organization Development online program at UofL.

Sodaba Rahmaty: Refugee, Tornado Survivor, UofL Online Student

By Conner Mackowiak | April 12, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

We have a powerful student story to share with you today. Sodaba Rahmaty is a refugee, tornado survivor and a UofL online MBA (OMBA) student. Sodaba’s story is one of challenge and hardship, but also one of profound strength, courage, and the indomitable power of the human will. Learn more about Sodaba’s journey by reading our interview with her below.

UofL Online: Please tell us about yourself: who you are, where you are from, and anything else you would like to share.

SR: I am Sodaba Rahmaty, raised in Kabul, Afghanistan. Despite being aware of the limited opportunities for women in Afghanistan, I was determined to fight for gender equality and worked toward this cause. I started working with international organizations such as the United Nations of the world food program and finished my bachelor’s degree in finance.

I was very concerned for my safety while working in Afghanistan due to the ongoing threats of targeted killings, kidnappings, and suicide bombings. Every day, I lived with the uncertainty of whether I would be able to return home safely or not.

In August 2021, on the morning that Ashraf Ghani (former president of Afghanistan) left, and the Taliban took over Afghanistan, people were rushing and looking stressed. There was huge traffic congestion and a sense of confusion and uncertainty in the air. At that time, I was in contact with a couple of rescue organizations overseas and one of them listed us to evacuate.

With a heavy heart and a sense of hopelessness, I left my homeland behind in search of a safer place to live peacefully. The uncertainty of life in Afghanistan had become too overwhelming, and I knew that I needed to seek refuge elsewhere.

The Taliban were truly dreadful, and their presence was scary. Witnessing their brutality firsthand, including beating civilians, was truly disturbing. Additionally, experiencing the tragic events at the Afghanistan airport was deeply traumatic.

After a week-long journey from Kabul to Doha, Doha to Germany, and Germany to Virginia, our cases were assigned to Bowling Green, Kentucky, a place I had never heard of before. Despite this, I was content with the thought that at least our safety would be guaranteed there. Unfortunately, our journey was not without further difficulties. Just a week after we settled into a government-rented house, a tornado struck and damaged our home. Once again, we were forced to relocate and find a new place to stay temporarily.

Sodaba while getting into a military plane from Kabul airport heading to Doha.

Sodaba’s picture was taken at her office in Kabul AFG.

Sodaba in the Kabul airport.

This is a photo of a motor bomb explosion close to Sodaba’s home a few days before the Taliban took over Kabul.

This was during Sodaba’s interview with The New York Times.

This photo was taken while working in Afghanistan, during a training.

This was Sodaba’s street in Bowling Green, KY after the tornado happened. It was “unrecognizable.”

This is Sodaba at the base in Germany waiting for the flight to the USA.

A photo of Sodaba in the USA.

UofL Online: What prompted you to pursue an advanced degree?

SR: I have always been highly motivated to learn, and I strongly believe that pursuing an advanced degree will provide me with access to better resources and educational opportunities. This, in turn, will help me to advance both my career and personal growth. While being very new to driving, I drove 2 hours to meet with my recruiter at UofL, which can explain how passionate I am about it. As I believe the best investment is investing in yourself.

UofL Online: How did you hear about the UofL Online program/classes? How did you decide that UofL is right for you?

SR: I was fortunate enough to receive some valuable advice from a lady who serves as a board member of the International Center of Bowling Green. She recommended that I explore graduate programs at the University of Louisville, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that their programs aligned closely with my interests. I promptly emailed the graduate program director and was fortunate enough to receive a quick response.

UofL Online: What degree are you currently working towards?

SR: I am pursuing an MBA degree, focusing on financial analytics. This program combines my interest in finance and data analysis and will equip me with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in this field. I am excited to learn and grow through this program and to apply the knowledge and skills I gain to real-world scenarios.

UofL Online: What are your interests, dreams, passions, or goals? Do you have a dream job or career that you would like to pursue one day?

SR: My goal as an MBA student focusing on financial analytics is to become an independent and stable woman who strives to live a fulfilling life for herself and make a positive impact as a human being. With the skills and knowledge gained from this program, I aspire to be a leader in the financial industry and use financial analytics to create value for businesses and society at large. I also aim to prioritize equity and advocate for the voices of underrepresented groups, including refugees. Ultimately, I hope to leverage my education and experience to make meaningful contributions to the world around me and help those who are most in need of support. Additionally, I aspire to be an example of resilience and demonstrate to others that they can overcome any obstacle and achieve their goals with hard work and perseverance.

UofL Online: How has UofL’s online program helped you to advance toward your goals/dreams?

SR: Before starting school, I was lost and uncertain about which path to take. The University of Louisville’s commitment to providing a flexible and supportive learning experience is truly commendable. By offering the opportunity to balance my work and studies and providing access to online classes and resources to navigate any challenges, the university’s staff and professors are very responsive and most of the time I forget it is distance learning. On the other hand, I have classmates who check on me and are my study partners in some cases, I enjoy my learning journey.

The fact that I also have the option to take electives on campus is fantastic as it offers a more hands-on and engaging learning experience that complements the online coursework. The university’s dedication to ensuring that I have a clear plan and feel supported in my studies is a testament to its commitment to student success.

Feeling overwhelmed during my academic journey can be discouraging, but with the University of Louisville’s resources and support, I can feel confident and empowered to succeed. By taking advantage of the opportunities offered by the university, I can make the most of my academic experience and pave the way for a bright future.

UofL Online: What would you tell other students who are thinking about pursuing an online education, but are not completely ready to take the leap?

SR: I would advise others who are reluctant about pursuing OMBA that online education can offer many benefits, including flexibility, convenience, and the ability to learn at your own pace. However, being self-motivated, organized, and committed to staying on top of coursework and deadlines is important.

My experiences show other students the significance of having a concrete plan for one’s future with a UofL degree, as it can provide direction and motivation to overcome difficult times, the value of education, and the need to take advantage of available opportunities.

From all of us at UofL Online, thank you Sodaba for taking the time to share your story and experiences with is.

Student Spotlight: Counseling and Human Relations Student Answers All of Our Questions

By Conner Mackowiak | April 7, 2023 | Comments 0 Comment

Meet Mike Clark! Mike is a UofL Online Bachelor of Science in Organizational Leadership and Learning (BSOLL), student with a track focus in Counseling and Human Relations. We asked him some questions about his online BSOLL experience—let’s read his responses below!

Why did you select the OLL program?

I choose the OLL – Counseling and Human Relation track after realizing I could do no more for an unlucky situation I was in. I graduated from St. Catharine College right before it shutdown then found out I had a transcript discrepancy that made it tough to get into grad school. With the school shut down and nobody to talk to fix it (and only able to prove my associate’s not my bachelor’s) I had to bite the bullet and start my undergrad over; I even went out somewhere to wrestle again and became an All-American which gave me more confidence to pick this program up to help me forge a career in coaching student-athletes. OLL was really good for a guy like me, in that the program basically transferred almost all my school and work experience in through PLA and I don’t have much left to do outside of core classes to finish again but with something more tangible. It’s a very friendly and flexible program for adults that need another chance at college.

What are you enjoying most about the program?

I like the content that I am learning and how accessible the online modules are, being that you can do the work from just about any device from anywhere with other options for accommodations. I also am grateful to be in a counseling program so that I could apply it to my coaching in wrestling which makes more sense for me than what I finished in school with the first time being fine arts and early ed—thought I’d be a music teacher!

Do you feel the program is providing the skills you need to be successful in your career?

Each course teaches me more about different kinds of counseling and approaches to working with all kinds of people: emotional intelligence, human resources, management, leadership skills, the coaching process, running a program, ethics, and more. These and other topics involved in OLL are some of the very core skills needed to be a good coach in wrestling where, more and more these days, you need to have all the skills of a CEO to run a proficient program.

Would you recommend the program? Why?

I would recommend the program to adults who need a second chance at a degree or need to just finish. This program is made for them and there a several more tracks then when I first found out about it which makes it to where more people can find their niche in leadership be it counseling, early ed, or tech, etc. I’ve even recommended for my emphasis specifically, the HR Leadership certificate offered by the university that ties into the OLL counseling and HR track as a way for some to do school at an even lighter level while learning about the program. So, if they finish the cert and choose to continue then at least they already got a head start.

Who is your current employer?

I’m self-employed but…

I do run the Cardinal Wrestling Club (CWC) at the University of Louisville (we wrestle collegiately in the NCWA) which takes up a good bit of my time.

What is your current title?

Self-employed outside of being the President of CWC at UofL.

Thanks, Mike, for the great responses!

If you’d like to learn more about UofL’s online BSOLL program, click here and get started today!

Category: Testimonials & Student Stories