Rebecca Pacheco was my second interviewee and she sounds like she has her hands full but is really staying on top of the demands of being a non-traditional student. After being accepted to both Campbell University and NC State University, Rebecca was encouraged to look into St. Andrews as an alternative and fell in love with the Equestrian program. She is currently working on an Interdisciplinary Major incorporating Therapeutic Horsemanship, Psychology and Small Business Ownership.
While this is her first semester, I think she has the right positive attitude to make her school experience work. Rebecca has quite the balancing act ahead of her as she states her biggest struggle being, “the delicate balancing act of full time employment, full time enrollment, a husband, 3 step-children, and a round trip commute of 2.5 hours”. I look forward to hearing more about Rebecca’s future success!
Kacie, 8 years old with Hershey |
Kacie with Cliff "my daily inspiration" Photo permission Tobe Saskor |
I also had the pleasure of hearing back from Jennifer Almond, a fellow Senior, here at St Andrews. She like many students was drawn to St Andrew’s for the Therapeutic Horsemanship Program and the partnership that St Andrew’s has with PATH International. A native of Stanly County, Jennifer commutes over an hour each way to get to classes each day. She enjoys taking riding lessons as they are helping her to learn more while getting more physically fit. Like many of us that are a bit older, Jennifer, just like myself, sometimes finds it difficult blending in with the younger students.
While we may be a small part of the St Andrew’s Equestrian community, I think it’s nice to know that we are not alone in our efforts. Sometimes, when you decide to go back to school as an adult, it can be hard especially if you feel like you are alone in what you are doing. This has opened my eyes to show that there is more to the “Non-Traditional” Student than meets the eye. So, if you happen to see one of us walking down the hall, or we are in your class, don’t be afraid to say hello or partner up with us in a group. Just because we don’t live on campus doesn't mean that we don’t have a lot to bring to the table or years of experience to share.
A Military Friendly School
For five years St. Andrews University has been recognized as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, the premier media entity for military personnel transitioning into civilian life. Victory Media recognizes schools that exhibit leading practices in the recruitment and retention of students with military experience. These schools have world-class programs and policies for student support on campus, academic accreditation, credit policies, flexibility and other services to those who served and their families. “Inclusion on the 2014 list of Military Friendly Schools shows St. Andrews University’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for military students,” said Sean Collins, vice president at Victory Media.
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