I chose UNC Charlotte because the fully online MSW program gave me an opportunity I wouldn’t have had otherwise. As someone who works full time and has a busy family life, a traditional in-person program just wasn’t realistic for me. The flexibility of the online format allowed me to pursue both of my goals, growing professionally through graduate education while still being present and focused on my family. UNC Charlotte made it possible for me to invest in my future without having to sacrifice what matters most in my present.
As a nontraditional student returning to academics many years after earning my bachelor’s degree, I was honestly a little nervous about being rusty or out of touch with today’s academic environment. I wasn’t sure what to expect or how I would fit in, but UNC Charlotte made the transition incredibly smooth. From the start, I felt supported every step of the way. The clear roadmap for class registration took the guesswork out of planning my coursework, and one-on-one advising not only gave me confidence that I was on the right path but also provided the opportunity to gain valuable insights on my specific goals. Most importantly, every professor has been invested in our success, meeting us where we are and encouraging our growth. Their support has made all the difference in helping me thrive in this new chapter.
It already has! The UNC Charlotte graduate program has been instrumental in preparing me not only for the future but for the opportunities I’m stepping into right now. Through this program, I’ve grown both as a student and as a professional. The course material challenged me to think critically and lead strategically, while the practicum experience gave me hands-on insight and confidence in the field. Because of this program, I was able to successfully transition into a higher leadership role as an Executive Director. It truly rocketed my professional development and set me on a trajectory I’m incredibly excited for.
One of the best ways to maximize your experience is to align your assignments with your personal and professional goals. This not only deepens your learning but also gives you a portfolio of work that’s directly relevant to your next career move. If possible, incorporate your place of employment into your coursework. I found that using assignments to address real challenges or opportunities at my job not only helped me grow but also contributed to my organization’s success. It’s a great way to stay motivated and make your education work for you in real-time.
Admittedly, as a full-time professional and a single mom of two, I’m still learning what work-life balance really looks like, but I’ve come a long way! Through time management and staying organized, I’ve been able to reframe what balance and self-care mean for me. Creating a daily schedule helps keep me grounded, and I make it a priority to reserve one day each week with absolutely no work, just rest and reset. Even in the busyness, I still find time for the small joys that keep me going: spending quality time with my kids, getting in some daily exercise, and treating myself to sushi every now and then. It’s a work in progress, but it’s one I’m proud of!
Explore the stories of our Graduate Niners and Faculty who are making a meaningful impact at Charlotte.
