February 23, 2015

Jessica Balsavage is a Goodwin College part-time student.

Goodwin: Why did you choose Drexel's Goodwin College?

Jessica: I chose Drexel to continue my education because I was looking for an online bachelor’s program from a well-known, fully-accredited institution. I work within the education field and wanted to earn a degree from a school with a reputation for quality and high learning standards. I choose Goodwin College because they had very reasonable admission policies.  Goodwin accepted most of my transfer credits and will allow me to take a number of CLEP exams, which will help me complete my degree in less time. That’s important to me because I am a part-time student who is balancing school with work and family responsibilities.

Goodwin: What are your favorite things about student life so far?

Jessica: My favorite thing about my online student life is the flexibility I have to attend classes on my schedule. I also value the interactions I have with fellow students on the classroom discussion boards. Many students are also juggling school with other commitments—it’s helpful to hear the strategies other students are using to manage it all.

Goodwin: Favorite Class?

Jessica: I have a few! I have really enjoyed every Sociology class I have taken, but my favorites were Introduction to Sociology, because it opened my eyes to the field, and Sociology of Education. That class taught me a lot about how educational opportunities vary across different socio-economic classes, and what must be done to provide all students with equal access to high-quality education. I also really enjoyed the History of Business course I took, which examined significant innovations, practices and business leaders that helped to shape the modern business world.

Goodwin: What are your future career aspirations?

Jessica: I am fortunate to have a job that I love, and I work for a great organization. I plan to continue on my current career path. But I do believe that obtaining my bachelor’s degree will provide me with a broader range of opportunities in the future, both inside and outside my current organization.

Goodwin: Why did you decide to return to school after spending time in the professional world?

Jessica: I decided to complete my degree for a few reasons. I love to learn, so I wanted to make sure I fulfilled that commitment to myself and my own personal growth. I also have a young daughter, and I want her to attend college one day. I feel like I am living by example and showing her that an education is an important priority.

Goodwin: How do you think getting your degree will influence your career?

Jessica: Just working towards my degree has already influenced my career! As I learn and grow as a student I have become more confident at work. My courses have sharpened my critical thinking, oral communication and written communication skills. And I think that my return to school has shown my supervisors that I am committed to growing my skill set so I can take on new projects and roles in the future.