Sofia Pazienza’s Post

#26Days. Over FIVE consecutive years, Santa Rosa Junior College conferred upon me #TenDegrees. Although in 2020 and 2021, #COVID19 caused the commencement ceremonies to be online, being a part of FIVE consecutive commencement ceremonies meant a lot to me. In those five years, Ten Degrees in varying subjects were conferred, and all but one class (being Public Speaking) was completely done online. Five degrees prior to #COVID19, Five since. In a little under 4 weeks now, my SIXTH consecutive commencement ceremony will occur. My sole degree, my Bachelor of Liberal Arts degree from Sonoma State University (thru their Sonoma State University School of Extended and International Education at Sonoma State's Saturday Degree Completion Program), is my #EleventhDegree overall. Eleven degrees in six straight years means a lot to me. Twelve Degrees in seven-eight years means something to me (and will at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte), while Thirteen Degrees in eleven years will mean the most. #ComeWhatMay, it will happen again, and again, and again.

Whatever your professional calling, a Marywood graduate education will prepare you from Day One. ›› https://bit.ly/3IltGmy

This past Friday, I had the pleasure of returning to the grounds of my Alma mater, Butler University for ‘a thing.’ (stay tuned for more details). Being on campus always fills me with immense pride; the education I received there was truly exceptional. Thank you Dr. Rose Campbell and Dr. Kwadwo Anokwa for your support during my tenure as a student. I took advantage of Dow Chemical’s tuition assistance program and they funded my bachelor ‘s degree from Butler. Despite the challenges of juggling full-time work and studies, I look back on my experience with fondness and gratitude. I’m very proud of Butler’s latest endeavor, the launch of the Butler University Founder's College —a two-year institution aimed at providing access to education to the underserved Indianapolis community. There's something undeniably special about the Butler experience, and I'm eager for others to share in it. In an era where college enrollment is dwindling, it's essential for those of us fortunate enough to have received a college education to share our stories. My time at college was transformative, shaping me into the person I am today. It instilled in me invaluable critical thinking skills, introduced me to literature and art, and broadened my perspective on the world. Every individual deserves the opportunity to access such a quality education. While I acknowledge that the college environment isn't the best fit for everyone, with some individuals thriving more through hands-on experiences and honing specific skills, I still advocate for giving college a sincere try, regardless of age—from 18 to 58. It broadens your perspective on the world and opens up countless opportunities. There's a prevalent argument that a college degree isn't necessary for success in fields like technology. However, it's not just about mastering code or understanding theories; it's also about the method of learning and the knowledge gained through interaction with others different from you. And the doors that will open. I graduated cum laude from Butler University, with high honors in Journalism. I earned my juris doctor from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law. I am a first-generation college graduate. Oh yeah, GO DAWGS! #iamfirstgeneration #collegeeducationmatters #butleruniversity #godawgs

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Here are a few upcoming opportunities to learn more about the graduate programs in UC Davis Materials Science and Engineering

For many of us, it is the first day of the Fall 2023 semester! Here's to the start of a great school year! And for me, this is the first week of my first year as a graduate student at the USC Rossier School of Education. What would you say are some best pieces of advice you can give me? The last time I was a student was when I finished my BA in History almost 13 years ago! Where did the time go? #usc #fighton #enrollmentmanagement #highereducation #highereducationleadership #firstgenerationcollegestudent #firstgen

Discover Undergraduate and Graduate Degree Programs at Richmond College! Achieve the diploma you deserve. Higher education is now accessible to ALL, no matter where you are, whatever degree you desire, and whichever career you aspire to. #HigherEducation #RichmondCollege #Undergraduate #Graduate #AccessibleEducation #CareerGoals #DreamBig #EducationForAll #LifeLongLearning #Opportunity"

In a recent article, #CulenCollege graduate Ashley Duncan shares her journey as a first-generation graduate, highlighting the crucial role played by her family, friends, and professors in her success. 🙌👨🎓 Read the full story here: https://lnkd.in/gSGYVXCu

Reflecting on my career so far, some of my most cherished memories involve traversing the roads of the United States. My mission was clear: to engage with high school students and introduce them to the unparalleled academic experience at the University of St Andrews. From bustling urban institutions to serene rural campuses, in the high schools in America I had the privilege of meeting with students, hearing their aspirations, and presenting them with an opportunity to broaden their horizons. To those in similar roles today: Recognise the magnitude of your task. Every presentation, every conversation, and every brochure handed out has the potential to shape a student's future. The weight of that responsibility is significant, but so too is the reward. As you travel and speak, remember that you are not merely a representative of an institution, but a communicator of opportunity. The chance to influence the academic trajectory of so many eager minds is rare, so seize it, relish it, and above all, understand its profound importance. To my contemporaries in this endeavour: Continue the commendable work. Your influence is far-reaching and deeply impactful. I miss it dearly. #highereducation #students

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