Students are drawn to complete their bachelor’s degrees through the University of Virginia’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies for many reasons. For some, it’s the chance to earn a degree from the Commonwealth’s flagship university, an institution that employers know and trust nationwide. Considering that over 85% of the School’s students work full time, the accessibility of UVA’s degree completion is a draw for others, with programs that feature online courses delivered through convenient class structures and formats.
Regardless of why students choose to finish their degrees through the School of Continuing and Professional Studies, they all benefit from most of the same privileges as traditional UVA undergraduate students such as the opportunity to study abroad if they want. During last month’s January term, or J-Term as it is known by students and staff, Kearra Siler and Jamie Stockner took advantage of this opportunity.
Siler is originally from Hampton, Va., but now resides in Manassas Park while Stockner grew up in Colonial Heights and now resides in the Petersburg/Dinwiddie area. Both are working mothers currently pursuing their Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) degrees. As the spring term shifts into high gear, they made time to answer a few questions about their experience in the BIS program, including their recent overseas travel through UVA Education Abroad.
Q. What is the path that led you to enroll with UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies?
Stockner: Both my parents had passed, and I was married by the time I was 15. It was far from a healthy relationship, and after many years and quite a few kids later, I left and started my life over. I wanted to show my children, no matter the circumstances, that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.
After getting married at such a young age and having children, I couldn’t complete high school the traditional way. I searched for an accredited school and received my diploma from Penn Foster High School. Once married to my now amazing husband, I was able to focus on my education again and, at the same time, be flexible with my schedule. I received my associate degree in psychology, magna cum laude, from Richard Bland College. I have been a server/waitress off and on for the last 15 years at various places.
Siler: I studied at Northern Virginia Community College for my associate degree in general studies. At the time, I was working as an assistant manager at a local café. I’d had a background in retail management for quite some time and was searching for ways to conquer the glass ceiling I’d begun to experience.
Q. How did you learn of the UVA Education Abroad opportunity, and what was the process to take part?
Siler: I studied abroad as a participant in the UVA in Dubai: Systems Engineering program. I distinctly remember reviewing the application for UVA’s Darden School of Business and coming across the question about whether I had studied abroad during my undergraduate program. I immediately closed the application, thinking if that’s what it takes to be accepted, then it’s not for me.
Fast forward a few months, I received an email from student financial services, announcing a program to assist students with travel grants. This is how I learned of the Education Abroad website where I found a plethora of programs that sparked my interest, learning for the first time that short-term programs are available. Applying was fairly easy, although I must admit that mental tenacity was necessary to push forward. There were many times throughout the journey that I felt like an imposter, and that the program wasn’t intended for me.
Stockner: I received an email due to my performance so far at UVA, inviting me to apply to a study abroad program. Since I have six children, some with disabilities, and my youngest being three, I didn’t think it would be possible for me. However, after looking over the programs, I noticed quite a few options offered short-term programs that lasted just over a week. Fortunately for me, Rome was an option. I have wanted to visit there since I was a little girl.
The application process was very easy and self-explanatory with just a short essay. Since I receive financial aid, the application fee was waived. I never thought I would be picked since I am a virtual student, was a psychology major and older than most that would probably participate. To my surprise, I was accepted, and the opportunity changed my life.
Q. What did you enjoy the most, and what did you learn?
Stockner: The entire experience was extraordinary; everything was new and exciting. While I was the oldest student participating, the other students were friendly, accepting and inviting, helping me to truly feel like a real student in the program and not out of place at all.
I enjoyed visiting all the historic sites and seeing the breathtaking art and architecture the most. I took in every aspect of the trip – the on-site visits, the food, the culture, the history. My professor was filled with knowledge, experience and passion which greatly aided in the overall experience. I learned vast amounts of information regarding Renaissance and Baroque art and architecture and decided to turn my passion and love for art and history into a career. Because of this remarkable experience, I decided to change my degree concentration when I returned from psychology to art and society.
Siler: Dubai was amazing. I mostly enjoyed being able to experience another country and culture. The United Arab Emirates simply has “that something” that would only be understated if I tried to articulate it; it was beautiful, inviting and inspiring. I learned not to view the world solely through an American lens as there is much that cannot be fully understood or conceptualized based on what we read in the press.
Q. What would you say to other School of Continuing and Professional Studies students who are considering a UVA Education Abroad program?
Siler: I’d quickly tell them to go for it. I’d tell them, without hesitation, ‘Don’t miss out. You can do this. You are good enough. You do belong. You will be accepted, and it’s not too late.’
Attending this School has been the best decision I’ve made regarding my education. Not only is the BIS program designed to fit into busy schedules, but the School also genuinely cares about its students. Being part of the School of Continuing and Professional Studies means being part of UVA. This institution is monumental for a reason, and every day, it finds new ways to make me proud to be part of this journey.
Stockner: Don’t wait. Don’t think about the ‘what ifs.’ There is a program out there that will work with your schedule. Even if there isn’t a program offered specifically for your degree concentration, find one of great interest and apply.
Most of us in the School of Continuing and Professional Studies have had to put off our goals and dreams because of one thing or another; don’t allow an opportunity like this to pass you by. It is your time to focus on you and your education. What better way to receive an education than by experiencing it firsthand?