Tiffany Rapier of Corbin, KY, is a mother of 7 and an online student. She is also a first-generation college student completing her education in what’s known as an Education Desert, or an area with limited access to colleges or universities.
First-generation college students often face unique challenges that can significantly impact their ability to pursue higher education, especially those living in education deserts. Many of these students lack the familial experience to navigate the complexities of higher education, such as understanding financial aid, selecting courses or managing academic expectations. For those in education deserts, the absence of nearby institutions compounds the problem, limiting their access to in-person support systems, networking opportunities and academic resources. However, the rise of online learning offers a crucial lifeline.
Online education allows these students to access quality degree programs without the need to relocate or commute long distances. Flexible schedules, diverse course offerings and the ability to balance work and study make it a viable option for those who might otherwise struggle to find the time or resources to attend a traditional campus-based program. Through online learning, first-generation students in remote areas can overcome geographic and logistical barriers, gaining the education and skills necessary to pursue their career goals.
Take a few moments to watch Tiffany’s powerful story below, and see how she was able to complete both her BS and MS in Criminal Justice through UofL’s online programs!
UofL Online is excited to announce the launch of our newest program, the online Master of Science in Physiology (MS Phys)! This fully online degree offers students the opportunity to delve deep into the complexities of human physiology while providing the flexibility to learn at their own pace.
The MS in Physiology is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers in healthcare, research or education. With a comprehensive curriculum that covers topics such as cellular physiology, neurophysiology and exercise physiology, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in a variety of professional settings. Students will also be better prepared for a terminal degree in the medical field!
The MS in Physiology program director, Robert Brainard, PhD, emphasized the importance of this program, stating, “Health Science-related careers continue to expand at an accelerated pace. Our program provides a path toward admission into health-professions schools and employment in higher-paying medical-related positions.”
Graduates of the program will be well-prepared to pursue further education, such as medical or doctoral programs, or to take on roles in clinical settings, laboratory research, or health education. The online format ensures that students can balance their studies with work or personal commitments, making it an accessible choice for many.
Elevate your education and expand your career opportunities in the dynamic field of physiology. Click here to learn more about the program and how to apply!
Hear from a UofL Health Surgeon and UofL Online MBA Graduate!
We had an opportunity to speak with Dr. Kellen Choi, a surgeon with UofL Health and the Advisory Dean for UofL’s School of Medicine. Dr. Choi also completed UofL’s online MBA program, and offered some interesting insights as to how the program can be beneficial for students at any stage of their careers. Read Dr. Choi’s insights below!
Please provide your full name, title, and any credentials.
My name is Kellen Choi DO, FACOS, MBA.
Could you please share your current employer and occupation?
I work as a Urologic Surgeon at UofL Health, and serve as an Advisory Dean at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.
Why did you choose to pursue UofL’s online MBA?
I chose an online MBA at UofL to be part of the Cardinal family. I have been part of UofL Health and have also been teaching our students over the years at the University of Louisville, School of Medicine. I was impressed with how Cardinal students are proud of their school and thriving in life. As the medical field is becoming more complex and innovative ways to maximize our healthcare are crucial, I wanted to learn how to be an effective leader in our healthcare. I am a second-generation Aggie (Whoop!) and have also met several Aggie-Cardinals in our community, helping others and making the world a better place!
Did you complete the Business of Healthcare certificate?
I took business healthcare electives courses before the certificate was available but have thoroughly enjoyed taking valuable courses, which I use daily in my practice. I look forward to teaching as a faculty member for such an amazing program!
What was your favorite part of the online MBA experience?
I loved learning about different aspects of the business world that I was not familiar with as a physician, but the real joy was making connections with my professors and colleagues I still keep in touch with.
How has UofL’s online MBA helped you advance your career?
The UofL online MBA helped me be a more well-rounded physician who helps patients and healthcare in more innovative ways.
How does earning the online MBA through UofL fit into your life story?
My husband helped me navigate MBA classes while our two daughters saw me studying all the while working full time as a urologic surgeon. Now, my husband is getting his MBA while our two daughters see him study and work full time as critical care physician. Our girls love to see us study and grow as a family and help each other reach our goals to help others effectively!
What would you tell others considering pursuing an MBA?
Just do it! You will love it!
Thank you for your answers, Dr. Choi! You can learn more about UofL’s online programs here.
Life is full of challenges. Your online education doesn’t need to be one of them.
Julia Parsons (pictured above) wanted to go back to school for her family, in addition to realizing her dream of becoming a mentor and guiding force for college students. “I work full-time, I’m a mom and I’m a wife,” Julia says. Returning to school for her master’s degree was about “supporting my family and showing my daughter that I’m going to do what I set out to do.”
When Camille Jones graduated with her associate’s degree, she was pregnant with her daughter. “I worked for 15 years or so and I wanted to go back to school, but really didn’t have the time because I was a wife and mother of two kids.” She never gave up on her dream of going back to school, though, and she knew it was time when she kept hearing potential employers tell her the same thing. “I had interview after interview,” Camille explains, continuing that each time they would say, “We want to give you this job but you need a bachelor’s degree.”
For Troy Marables, the first in his family to go to college, it was about realizing his full potential. Troy received a promotion at work after 20 years of service, but felt he hadn’t gone as far as he wanted to go. “I needed to go back to school and get my degree in order to move to the next level of management.”
You may have dreamt about earning a college degree or going back to school, too. And each time you thought about it, you came up with reasons it wasn’t possible.
Like Camille, Troy and Julia, it’s time to turn your “why” into “how.”
Whether you want to earn your bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or obtain a specialized certificate, you can make your dreams come true through an online degree or certificate from University of Louisville (UofL) Online. UofL Online provides the support, expertise and student-driven focus needed to help you reach your goals.
It’s about you
Camille Jones
Everyone has a reason for wanting to go back to school. They have their own unique set of circumstances that may have kept them from taking the first step. UofL Online has a team of trained counselors, faculty and support staff to help you throughout the discovery and decision process.
This is your dedicated team. They’re available to listen to your concerns, answer questions and guide you to the resources you need. They are truly dedicated to your success and will work with you every step of the way on your journey.
It’s about excellence
The faculty teaching at UofL Online are thought leaders and researchers actively contributing to the advancement of their fields through their work—and the same world-class instructors as the traditional, on-campus programs. For online students, this means exposure to new research, an environment of innovation, a culture of excellence and forward-thinking ideas. Because UofL is a tier 1 research institution, you have the opportunity to learn from the best and the ability to be directly involved in making a difference, even before earning your degree.
UofL faculty are preparing students today for the challenges of tomorrow, empowering them to be leaders and influencers in their chosen professions and their communities.
It’s about time—and your time is now.
Troy Marables at work
UofL students come from all walks of life, all stages of career, with various backgrounds and from diverse cultures. Chances are you already know someone who has a degree from one of their programs. Now it’s your time to join UofL’s learners’ community.
With most of the online programs available at UofL, you won’t need to attend classes at set times. Choose the time that’s right for you to get your work done and meet course deadlines. You’ll also be able to work on your assignments and collaborate with classmates from any location.
Take the first step. Visit UofL Online to see what programs are available and start your journey. UofL currently has 32 online degree and certificate programs, with even more coming during the 2018-2019 academic year.
Turn your “why” into “how”. Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to knock down the barriers holding you back professionally. Become an inspiration to your family and friends. Most importantly, earn a sense of pride and accomplishment as you move past your hesitations, and embrace a future of possibilities.
“You can do it,” says Julia. “If it’s something that you want, that you have a passion for, and it’s where you see yourself in the future, then go for it.”
