Cynthia Dawn Smith
MPA, Public Administration
Why did you select Brandman University?
I received my BA from Chapman University College and was impressed with the quality of professor's and administration staff. After I graduated I went to another college for their master's program and was sadly, very disappointed. The quality of education and professor's, defiantly under par, in comparison to Brandman/Chapman. I came back to Brandman after one semester and changed my masters program to public administration and love it! I have been blessed to be part of an internship that has given me great experience in the public sector, public policy, media and local campaigns.
Why is earning a degree important to you?
I believe it will set me apart from others in succeeding in the work force.
What are your future goals following graduation?
Become completely self-supportive and sustainable for the last half of my life!
Jay Sato
BS Computing Technology
Why did you select Brandman University?
I chose Brandman because it's progressive in its approach to education. Brandman's IDEAL combines the advantages of physical classroom meetings with the flexibility and independence of the online format.
Why is earning a degree important to you?
Earning a degree is something I've always wanted to do. To me, a degree is a milestone in my life that is a culmination of not only all of my previous education, but my professional and personal experiences as well. In today's competitive employment market, you need to have as much advantage on your side as possible and a degree will help me in this regard.
What are your future goals following graduation?
My future goals following graduation is to see how my degree will provide new avenues for my career. It could help me with a promotion at my current job, or even open doors to new industries.
Sarah LaScola
Multiple Subject Credential Program
Why did you select Brandman University?
I chose Brandman first because of the convenient class times. There was no way I could have done my program during the day at another university due to rent and bills. Once I began talking with my Enrollment Coach, there was no other option needed. I knew right away that Brandman was going to be a pleasant and educational experience!
Why is earning a degree important to you?
My degree is important to me because this has always been my dream. I have wanted to be a teacher since kindergarten!
What are your future goals following graduation?
My goals after graduation are to put my degrees and credential to work. Although elementary teaching jobs are few and far between, I can't wait to get my name out there and show them what I've learned from Brandman!
Robert Bornmann
BA Early Childhood Development
Why did you select Brandman University?
Brandman offers legitimate degrees and are accredited regionally. This gives me the security to transfer to another graduate school and graduate from a school that will not be looked down upon in the employment field.
Why is earning a degree important to you?
My dream is to teach. Without an education how can I educate others?
What challenges have you faced that motivate you to pursue a degree?
Being an aide in a Special Education severely handicap classroom has enlightened me to use my abilities to connect with children. Brandman assists me with continuing my education without any hiccups, while having a family and continuing to work.
Lauren Newsome
MA Psychology, MFT
Why did you select Brandman University?
Brandman seemed like a real good fit for me. I am a 47 yr. old mother of three with a very busy schedule. I had to find a program that was aimed at helping the adult learner. I did not want to enroll in a completely online program, being that I felt anything in the psychology field demanded personal interaction and learning experiences. Brandman offered all of this.
Why is earning a degree important to you?
My husband and I both believe strongly in continued education and in setting a good example for our children. I also wanted to make a change in my career (formerly in health care – radiologic focus). My husband and I have set future goals for opening up our own clinic at some point in time and this motivated me to further my education.
What challenges have you faced that motivate you to pursue a degree?
Hitting the proverbial "ceiling" in past jobs that didn't offer room for growth and advancement as well as being limited with regards to utilizing my skills, creativity and talent.
Anna Lopez
BA Psychology
Why did you select Brandman University?
As a full-time working mother, I needed to find a school that would accommodate my schedule. Brandman University offers evening, weekend, and online classes that fit perfectly.
What are your future goals following graduation?
I would like to continue my education and move on to graduate school to attain my doctorate in developmental psychology. I want to develop a program that will teach people (especially at-risk youth) you do not have to be a victim of your environment and can be anything you put your mind and skills to using positive psychology.
What challenges have you faced that motivated you to pursue a degree?
I was raised in an environment that did not support education, but instilled hard working ethics. Deciding to go to college in my 30's has been my greatest challenge but I am glad I waited. I was not motivated enough when I left high school and now that I am older, I appreciate learning a whole lot more. I grasp every subject that is put in front of me and I think that is what will keep me going. This past June, I was the first person in my family to attend and graduate from college. Now we have two more in college and one in the Marines and it was because they were inspired by watching me. I am proof that your environment does not have to dictate who you are or what directions to lead your life.
Andrew Micah Pridgeon
BA Criminal Justice
Why did you select Brandman University?
I chose Brandman University based off a recommendation from a buddy in my Military Reserve Unit. I really appreciated the length of the terms, and the number of transfer credits Brandman accepted from my time in the military. As a service member, Brandman is the best choice for me!
Why is earning a degree important to you?
I believe every adult should have a college education. Earning my Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice is for my own self satisfaction, and for the opportunity to get a better job, better wages, and most of all, to make my Mom happy.
What challenges have you faced that motivated you to pursue a degree?
The biggest challenge that I have faced is looking at many job requirements, not just in law enforcement, where people with a bachelor's is required, or preferred, and that forces me to realize the reality that I am not all that I could be, and that I really need to get back in school and finish.