My name is Michelle Luce, and I’m a Plymouth State University senior. I’m enrolled in an interdisciplinary studies program focusing on Family Growth and Development, combining education and psychology courses centered around human growth and development. During my academic journey, I’ve taken a few breaks to work in the human services field and raise my family, allowing me to apply the knowledge gained in the classroom to real-life situations. Reflecting on my experience, I could have taken a different approach to accelerate my graduation. For example, I would have completed all general education courses within the first two years, met regularly with my academic advisor to plan my degree program, and spaced out more challenging courses.
I began my educational journey at White Mountains Community College with a major in nursing. While completing all my general education courses and nursing prerequisites, I realized I didn’t enjoy being around infectious diseases and touching bodily fluids, which were integral to the nursing program. I took time to reflect on what I liked about nursing and found that working with a diverse population in a controlled setting interested me the most. After some consideration, I decided to pursue a career in education. I began working full-time as a preschool teacher while completing my associate degree at White Mountains Community College.
In 2018, I graduated from the White Mountains Community College with an associate degree in the Teacher’s Education program. After that, I obtained a paraprofessional license in New Hampshire and applied for several paraprofessional positions in local elementary schools. I also pursued a Bachelor’s in Arts in Elementary Education from Plymouth State University.
As a full-time college student, a parent, and a paraprofessional, I was under a lot of stress. I had to take a break from my studies for a few semesters to focus on my family. During this time, I had the chance to reflect on my learning and apply it to the field of education. After a two-year hiatus, I returned to school with a new focus on working with families and adults instead of teaching. Upon discussing this with my college counselor, I was advised to consider the interdisciplinary studies program.
After conducting thorough research on the interdisciplinary studies program and consulting with my advisor to map out a path to graduation, I decided to make it my major. I have taken various classes in the past few years to fulfill my degree requirements. However, due to my expanding family and career, I spaced out my courses over the previous two years. The flexibility was enjoyable, allowing me to choose classes I’m interested in. As a result, my college experience has been more rewarding and enjoyable.
If I could change my educational journey, I would have focused solely on my general education during the first two years of college while working part-time in various fields to explore my passions. After that, I would have enrolled in school part-time for the remaining two years to prevent burnout. However, I still appreciate my path because it allowed me to take breaks, reflect on my choices, and make more fitting professional decisions.
