Although I received my MHSc degree in May 2025, my decision to pursue graduate education began more than four decades ago. I have always had a passion for learning. After earning my bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene many years ago, shifting priorities and life events led me to postpone my plans for graduate school.

Fast forward to 2021, when I learned that A.T. Still University's College of Graduate Health Studies (ATSU-CGHS) was introducing an online Master of Health Sciences (MHSc) program. This immediately sparked my interest and prompted me to explore whether the curriculum was the right fit for me. As an older graduate student who hadn’t taken an academic course in many years, I needed to be certain that this was a path I truly loved. Once I explored the curriculum and chose a focus in leadership and organization, I knew this was the graduate program I was meant to pursue.

With my busy work life in a clinical university setting, I knew that being a part-time student would work best for me. I began my journey in July 2021, with my first course being Critical Thinking and Writing for Professionals. This course set me on a new trajectory in both my writing and my thinking, one that has continued to shape my life. I give full praise and credit to my instructor for this course; through her encouragement and support, I found the strength and resilience to work hard and persevere.

There are many reasons why I succeeded in this program, despite its ups and downs. If I were to offer insight into how to excel in an online graduate program, I would recommend staying actively engaged with your instructor throughout each course. It is essential to ask questions, sometimes repeatedly, until you truly understand the material. Engage with your classmates in the discussion boards as well, as their perspectives can deepen your understanding. Conducting thorough research and selecting meaningful topics (when given the option) will help you stay motivated and connected to the coursework. Additionally, working ahead when possible, staying organized, and maintaining discipline are invaluable strategies not only for success in an online graduate program, but in many aspects of life.

I received my master’s degree less than a year ago. Although I may be nearing the tail end of my career, I can already see the fruits of my graduate-study labor reflected in the way I think, write, and make evidence-based decisions. There are no words to express how grateful I am that I pursued my MHSc degree at this stage of my life. I encourage anyone, at any age, to continue learning and not be afraid to take the step toward an advanced degree. It is truly worth it.