A Masters Degree is something I thought I would never be able to accomplish. Data Analytics is a new program for Averett and I wanted a Masters in something new and unique. Also, Data Analytics is one of those fields that is high in demand right now. – Timothy Ponikvar, MSADA’20

Timothy Ponikvar started his journey with Averett in 2017, when he started his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree. He joined the program at Averett’s satellite office in Quantico, where he was stationed in the Marine Corps. However, after 18 months of attending the program he had to withdraw due to personal reasons. After moving to Florida, he decided to continue his education. He finished his BBA, and eventually decided to obtain his Masters.

Throughout his education, Timothy has enjoyed working with Averett’s professors on a regular basis. As he is challenged to think critically in his course work. We asked Timothy to share advice for anyone who is thinking about returning to school, and he said “to definitely see what Averett has to offer. The faculty and staff are here for you every step of the way, which make the process much easier.”

Click here to find out more about our MSADA program!Ìý

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My name is Jennifer Hitt. I am the Compliance Coordinator at a therapeutic day school. I enjoy working out, cooking, hanging out with friends, church, and playing with my dogs. I am married to a wonderful man, Justin Hitt, who is also a teacher.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My motivation for obtaining my masters is so that I can further my professional development and my career options in education. I want to learn more about what my students are going through and how I can better serve their needs.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

I chose this program because I was able to continue working while taking classes. It also gave me the flexibility to adjust my workload so that I could balance my job, school, and family responsibilities in ways that allow me to be successful.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

The knowledge and understanding that I have gained during the program at AverettÌýhas already helped me be better in my new role and responsibilities within my school.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

My advice would be to focus on your time management skills. For example utilizing a calendar to keep up with due dates as well as time needed to complete assignments. This will allow you to make time for other personal activities and take time with your family which is necessary to keep stress levels down.

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?

My family has been a great support system for me. I have a goal to continually better myself and reach my full potential. With this degree I hope to be in a position to provide the best life for my family.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

Spring 2019

Learn about our M.Ed. Programs

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Hello, my name is Briana and I am currently a Sales Executive for The Knot (#1 Wedding Brand), located in NYC. I am a graduate of the University of Toledo with a Bachelors in Business Administration. I enjoy traveling and family activities in my leisure time. After receiving my Bachelors I knew I wanted to continue on to my Masters but I felt I needed some experience in my field before anything. I immediately began work upon graduation and finally decided to go for it!

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

Working full-time and commuting to NYC every day from New Jersey I knew I needed a flexible program with many resources available at any time.ÌýAverett has been everything I imagined so far and I am very happy with the choice I’ve made.

Averett has been everything I imagined so far and I am very happy with the choice I’ve made.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

After doing weeks of research 91¿ì²¥ was my school of choice because it offered an affordable and convenient degree program. Not to mention, a great staff! From the moment I applied, all of the staff were very helpful and informative. I couldn’t resist.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

So far this program has helped in enhancing my critical thinking skills and work-life balance.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

To all current and new students: Realize that a successful college career requires hard-work, dedication and sacrifice. Make your education a priority!

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?

When it comes to being motivated, I think about excelling in my career and building a foundation that will inspire young women like myself, to pursue a college degree and never give up on your dreams!

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

Graduation – May 2020 (MBA)

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

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Hi, my name is Keisha Smith. I am a mother of two daughters, ages six and eight. I am a licensed physical therapist assistant at Friendship Health and Rehab in Roanoke, Va. I enjoy baking cakes and cupcakes for family and friends. At High Street Baptist Church in Roanoke, VA, I direct the youth choir, two youth praise dance teams and assist the Sunday School Superintendent by conducting programs.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My goal and motivation in obtaining my degree is to become more knowledgeableÌýand to become a better employee for my company. I also wish to work towards climbing the corporate ladder for my current employer.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

The GPS program was very appealing and the partnership that Averett has with my job allowed school to be more affordable for me.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

Your learning experience is all what you make it to be. I also enjoy the flexibility in being able to complete my assignments at my own pace. I honestly wasn’t prepared for some of the math in the BSA 500 course however, I am using my resources wisely and utilizing the Averett tutoring service. I look forward to my tutoring session and learning more.

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?

Knowing that what I’m going through now is a temporary sacrifice for a permanent gain. Yes, the time I spend studying takes me away from things I enjoy however, once I’m done with the program I will be prepared to make career advancements.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

My anticipated date of graduation is spring 2020!

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

Download MBA Requirements

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My name is Matt Stolz. I moved to Danville, Virginia from Milwaukee, Wisconsin before the summer of 2017. I currently am one of the assistant volleyball coaches for Averett. When I am not working or studying, I enjoy being with friends and watching sports.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?
My family has all earned a master’s degree, so it has always been a goal of mine to earn a master’s degree from a strong university. With an MBA from Averett, I know that I will be able to further my career opportunities in coaching and collegiate athletics.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

I chose Averett’s Graduate & Professional Studies Program because I wanted the flexibility of working in collegiate athletics while being able to take classes online.

The variety and flexibility of scheduling was vital in my decision.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

A master’s degree from 91¿ì²¥ will help open new doors for my career by allowing me to continue to work in collegiate athletics.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

For future Averett students, I would suggest that students evaluate their schedules and figure out what times will work best for studying. While it may not always be consistent, having a plan on when to study is important. Additionally, no matter how challenging it can be, always stay positive and continue to work hard!

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?

My motivation to obtain my degree comes from those around me. The people that I work with are all trying to earn their degree while gaining important work experience. Since we are all going through similar things in life, we have formed an incredible support group. I know that I can call any one of them and they will be there to help me if I need it. This is something that I am beyond thankful for.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

91¿ì²¥, December 2019

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

Download MBA Requirements

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Hello, my name is Courtney Leddy. I was born and raised in Massachusetts, living with my mother, step-father and 3 siblings. Throughout my childhood, I have always been involved in athletics. I had the privilege to be a part of the softball team at Bridgewater State University. While there, I had the opportunity to gain experience within the athletic department, which led me to pursuing a career within the field.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My motivation for obtaining my degree here at Averett is to strengthen my educational background. Pursuing a master’s degree straight out of my undergraduate studies was exactly what I wanted in order to compliment my journey as a young professional. My goal is to be a lifelong learner and continuing my education at Averett has allowed me to do just that.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

After graduating from Bridgewater State University in 2017 with a degree in Physical Education, I decided to move from Massachusetts in order to pursue a graduate assistant position within the Athletic Department while in pursuit of my master’s degree.

The availability and convenience of obtaining a master’s degree online while gaining work experience within the athletic department was the ideal situation.

While currently in the program, I have received nothing but help and support from all those associated within the Graduate and Professional Studies Program.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

My degree from 91¿ì²¥ has assisted me thus far to have different style of thinking. With a background in Physical Education, I began my MBA with the determination to learn in a different manner in order to better my educational background for the career I am pursuing.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

My advice for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program would be to just work hard and ask for help when you need it. The GPS program does a great job in continuing to develop new ways for students to learn and receive help. The resources are there for students to use and ultimately up to us to seek out.

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?Ìý

I stay motivated while in my program by the long-term benefit that this degree will do for me. Even though it may be hard in the moment, the bigger picture of obtaining my master’s degree is irreplaceable.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

My anticipated date of graduation is 2019.

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

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Hello, my name is Tyesha Womack. I currently work in retail, but I hope to transition out of that sector very soon. I have one younger sister, a student at ODU, and an older sister, a CNA that is also in nursing school right now. My mother works at Sovah Health, and my father is a heavy equipment operator in North Carolina. My hobbies include cooking and reading when I can. I also enjoy watching crime documentaries and series. I also play the violin, a talent I’ve had since I was 11.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My motivation is a better, more stable future for myself and future family, and I hope to secure a career that I enjoy going to everyday.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

I chose this program because of the convenience and all the help I received from my wonderful admissions counselor, Andrea.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

The staff is very helpful and friendly. They’re always ready and willing to help you with anything you need. Don’t be scared or intimidated, you aren’t alone!

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?Ìý

The end result is what keeps me motivated. I also have a great support system from friends, family, and Andrea.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

Hopefully I’ll be done by spring 2020!

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

Download MBA Requirements

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My name is Kristin Lamarra. I have been an employee of Prince William County Schools since 2013. Next year I will be teaching 7^th grade Mathematics for Students with Learning Disabilities. In the past I have taught 6^th for Students with Autism, and 6^th grade Mathematics for Students with Learning Disabilities.

I graduated from Millersville University (2009) with my B.S. in Elementary Education. I graduated from Arcadia University (2012) with my M.Ed in Special Education.

I am married and have a 2-year-old son, and a dog. I enjoy cooking, baking, crafting and just being outside with my family.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My principal at my last school, and mentor through this program, has been a true motivation to me. She gave me the last shove to finally start looking at programs. I always knew that I wanted to go into Administration because I felt as though I could have a bigger impact on kids. I consider myself to be a true advocate for children, and want all the students I come in contact with to have access to the education they deserve.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

Averett’s program was attractive to me because it was all online and I still got the course work I needed to pursue a career in Administration. This program has allowed me to go to school and still focus on my career and my family.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

I haven’t received it yet. But, going through the program, I have been able to meet and talk with people in my county I wouldn’t have been able to.

The hands-on experience of this program has helped me to learn so much.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

The GPS program is designed for those who are self-motivated. We have several instructors who have been wonderful, supportive motivators. This program fit me perfectly because I am self-motivated and like having control over my education. Also, if you have a question, ask! If something isn’t fitting you, as a student, there are plenty of people willing to help.

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?

ÌýMy students, my family, my desire to improve myself.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

91¿ì²¥, December 2018

Learn about our M.Ed. Programs

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“Averett has always been known as a really good place for an education program for teachers…This degree, it’s a symbol of success for me and that I’m really doing something right.â€� – Samantha G., M.Ed.

“A couple years ago I went through a lot of life changes. I thought I wasn’t putting my full potential out there. Averett has always been known as a really good place for an education program for teachers. A lot of my Middle schoolers, they push me and they gave me a lot of motivation. I knew Averett was one of the best for this program that I was interested in. I learned a lot about not just development, not just curriculum but a little bit of everything. I was able to take that right away back to my classroom. The Averett team was really supportive. The counseling was wonderful. I couldn’t be happier. This degree, it’s a symbol of success for me and that I’m really doing something right. Now I’ve made it!â€�

Learn about our Master of Education programs.

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Hello, my name is Jarrod Saunders. I am originally from Danville, VA, and currently live in Portsmouth, VA. I am a middle school Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher for Suffolk Public School, and a part-time chef at Olive Garden. I am an only child, and my hobbies include working out, listening to music, watching stand-up comedy, and interacting with like-minded people, to name a few.

What is your motivation for obtaining your degree here at 91¿ì²¥?

My motivation for obtaining my degree here at 91¿ì²¥ is to be able to obtain a career in Human Resources, that will allow me to live a fulfilling and rewarding life, as well as assisting other people in achieving their dreams and goals.

Why did you choose 91¿ì²¥â€™s Graduate & Professional Studies program?

I choose Averett’s Graduate & Professional Studies Program mainly because of the hometown connection. The elementary school I attended is located close to Averett. I remember admiring the campus everyday as I rode by, and it means a lot 30 years later, to further my education from the first university I was ever introduced to.

Also, I have witnessed the growth of Averett over the past 30 years, and I am proud to be a part of a university that is continuouslyÌýmoving forward.

How has your degree from 91¿ì²¥ assisted you in your career?

Although I am still in the process of pursuing my degree, I have noticed how the MBA program has already made me a better person career wise, and also on a personal level. It has taught me not to be narrow-minded, and to look at situations from multiple viewpoints. The main benefit I have observed is that it has taught me to make decisions, and solve problems based on logic, and not emotion. It has improved my researching, writing, and analytical skills, and solving complex situationsÌýhas become easier to manage.

What advice would you share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥â€™s GPS Program?

Advice I would share for current and incoming students in 91¿ì²¥’s GPS Program is to first of all, have a positive mindset. Reduce or remove the people and things that don’t provide you with positive energy. Other than having a positive mindset, I recommend proper planning, and try to find a balance between family/friends, schoolwork, everyday life, hobbies, and proper rest. “Brain Breaks” have become my best friend. When working on assignments, sometimes I find it beneficial to take a 15-30 minute break to regroup, reset, and refocus.

What keeps you motivated while in your degree program?Ìý

What keeps me motivated while in the degree program is keeping my eyes on the big picture. ÌýOn a daily basis, I take a few moments to visualize myself walking across the stage, obtaining my diploma. What also keeps me motivated is the anticipation of the future career opportunities, and living a comfortable lifestyle.

What is your anticipated date of graduation?

91¿ì²¥, Class of 2019!

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an MBA Online Can Help You Advance Professionally

¸é±ð²¹»åÌý3 Ways an Accredited Online MBA Can Help You Advance Personally

Learn about our MBA Programs

Download MBA Requirements

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