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When I first decided to come back to school as a non-traditional student, many questions flooded my mind.  Am I too old?  Will I be able to handle the course load?  Do I have the time?  How will I juggle school, work, and the kids?  What sacrifices will I have to make?  These questions and others constantly plagued me until I attended a 23+ Information Session here at Meredith.  After listening to the positive experiences of the non-traditional students at the session, I gained the courage needed to enroll in the program.  Now that I am a senior, graduating in May 2008, being a non-traditional student means to me having the courage, determination, and perseverance to accomplish a life long goal. 

By facing my fears head on, I have encouraged myself to build new friendships with traditional as well as non-traditional students here at Meredith.  Relationships with the traditional students on campus have been rewarding and have helped me to bridge the generation gap.  The non-traditional students have been supportive, enriching, and a source of inspiration.  I value these relationships because they have been the driving force that has furthered my dream of obtaining a degree in Social Work. 

My life experiences were beneficial in helping me overcome the day-to-day barriers and obstacles as a non-traditional student.  These experiences have prepared me and given me the determination and perseverance needed to succeed at Meredith.  Being a non-traditional student has also given my daughters a tangible role model that they can emulate.  They now see that if they set their minds on a goal, no matter how arduous, they can accomplish it.  

Although the path of a non-traditional student is demanding, the pride, self-worth, dignity and respect gained are worth the journey.  I will forever be proud of my accomplishments and treasure this experience for life.