Nearly every high school graduate faces an important choice: go to college or find a job. Katie Campbell of Shawano, Wisc. chose to go to college following high school and earn an associate degree, but after graduation, like many students, the 22-year-old was once again faced with the same decision.
“After I graduated with my associate degree in business management, I didn’t feel like I was ready to be in that position,” said Campbell. “Most jobs I looked at asked for a bachelor’s degree; I knew I needed to continue my college education.”
Six months later, Campbell enrolled in the Rasmussen College School of Health Sciences. Campbell says she’s always wanted to work in the healthcare field. After doing some research, she found the Rasmussen College Green Bay campus and scheduled an appointment with a program manager.
“What I appreciated most about Rasmussen College is they weren’t pushy,” said Campbell. “I will never forget meeting with my program manager because she asked me specific questions to help me decide which degree would best fit me.”
Since Campbell already has an associate degree in business management, the program manger suggested she get her Health Information Management bachelor’s degree.
“Almost all of my credits transferred over,” said Campbell. “It was such a smooth process, and I was ready for my first class in no time.”
Currently, Campbell is taking all of her classes online and loves it. She says it allows her to continue working full-time at a nearby healthcare facility as a patient service representative, a position she started last spring.
“When I had my interview, I explained I was going to school and wanted to move up,” said Campbell. “My goal is to become a supervisor when I graduate.”
Campbell only has two quarters left and says so far she couldn’t be happier with her college experience. Her family and boyfriend have been her biggest support system, but wanting a better life for herself is her main motivator.
“My financial situation is what’s really pushing me,” said Campbell. “My boyfriend and I are living on our own now, so I want a career that will support us.”
If you’re a young adult contemplating whether to go to college or find a job, Campbell suggests finishing while you’re young. She says the longer you wait, the harder it will be to go back to school. And these days it’s easier to do both thanks to flexible evening and online courses.
“A college degree is an investment and something no one can take away from you,” said Campbell. “It will help turn a job into a career.”
How has college changed your life? Share with us by commenting below or e-mail us at [email protected].
