Student Stories
Taniqua Chisolm, Associate of Arts
The Online AA program helped Taniqua build a foundation for the rest of her academic career. She will graduate from Tri-C in December 2022 and plans to enroll at Notre Dame College in spring 2023 to pursue a psychology degree.
How has the Online AA program benefited you?
I work from home and am a mother to three beautiful children on top of my other responsibilities. I enjoy being able to study and complete schoolwork once the kids are asleep. The flexible schedule lets me move things around to fit my needs.
What has been the most helpful resource for you as an online student? Why?
Office hours and DegreeWorks. If I needed to meet with my professor, I knew when I could do that - and the audit kept me on track for graduation. It reminded me that no matter how hard a semester was, I was still moving forward and making my way toward my goal.
What is your overall career goal after you complete your education?
I'd like to open my own mental health practice to help my local community, including families and couples.
Maria Mira, Associate of Arts
Maria enjoyed the program's flexibility because she was unable to attend classes in person.
What was your best experience in the Online AA program?
I enjoyed my time doing a small-group peer review in my College Composition II course. I received great feedback and had a chance to communicate with my other online classmates.
Would you recommend the Online AA option to others? Why?
I recommend the program for students who are unable to attend classes in person for any reason. I would also recommend it to students who are responsible and motivated to complete the coursework.
How did the Online AA program help you get started in higher education?
I received my high school education online, too. Being able to take most of my courses online — and a couple of courses face-to-face — is helping me ease back into the in-person classroom environment.
Carrie Buckley, Associate of Applied Science in Nursing
A gender studies course taken as part of the Online AA program inspired Carrie to become a nurse. After completing their prerequisites, they were admitted to Tri-C's nursing program.
Why did the Online AA program appeal to you?
Completing my degree online gave me the flexibility to work a day job without compromising family time.
How did the Online AA program benefit you?
I work full time at Planned Parenthood, a job that I am passionate about. I’m glad I didn’t have to set that aside to work on my degree.
What is your overall career goal after you complete your education?
I’d like to work as a registered nurse at Planned Parenthood and eventually return to school to become a nurse practitioner. As a member of the LGBTQ community, I know how important it is for medical providers to understand and appreciate the unique challenges that LGBTQ people face every day.
Sara George, Associate of Arts
Sara has worked hard to complete an associate degree at the age of 54. She is thankful to everyone at Tri-C for helping her achieve her goal.
How has the Online AA program benefitted you?
Between work, school and family, I was starting to feel burned out. I love that this program let me work at my own pace.
What is your overall career goal after you complete your education?
I've always wanted to be a trauma counselor for first responders. I look forward to exploring this and other careers as I work towards my bachelors degree.
How did the Online AA program help you get started in higher education?
I was just taking classes and making decisions on my own before learning about the Online AA program. I wish it had been available when I started four years ago. I am happy with my accomplishments!