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Liberty University
Judith Isles
Customer care specialist
Class of 2012, bachelor’s degree in psychology
Liberty University
Judith Isles is a classic example that it is never too late to pursue a dream. Hoping to become a licensed therapist and operate her own practice, she was initially attracted to Liberty University Online because it allowed her to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology with an emphasis in Christian counseling. Isles was also motivated to pursue her degree for the personal enrichment of a college education and the practical applicability of the major.
“I am using my degree to pursue a new career and to better myself,” Isles said. “Psychology is a degree that can be used in many different work fields.”
Isles knew online education would be a must, as she wanted to maintain her full-time job as a customer care specialist with the Florida Department of Transportation. In this role, she fills two important job functions: handling personal and business toll accounts and resolving toll disputes as a violations specialist. Even in her current position, the fruits of her labor are paying off. Isles said that learning the theories within the field of psychology have helped her gain an edge while handling problems with customers.
“I had a lady call … and since I have been taught how important it is to listen, it was easy for me to let her talk my ears off with her problems,” Isles said. “From there, I was able to assist her and help her with her bill. In the end, she was very happy and grateful, and it was a very rewarding experience for me.”
The positive experience from her education did not stop there. While meeting with her pastor one day, Isles began discussing her degree and shortly after, her pastor recommended that Isles begin helping with the church youth group. This not only provided her with an opportunity to put her education to work, but also allowed her to give back to those around her.
“It is an awesome experience to be able to teach [children], to understand how they are feeling, and to know what they need to do to improve their situations,” Isles said. “I took a class about children’s counseling, including teens, and that gave me a great insight into their needs and behavior.”
While Isles will not begin her official job search until she has completed her degree, she is confident that the education she gains from Liberty will give her an edge. Based on the reputation of Liberty University as a brick-and-mortar institution, Isles said she believes her online degree will carry the same weight. She has also taken confidence in hearing several positive testimonials from current and former Liberty University Online students, which has reassured her that she has made the right choice.
“Liberty University is a Christian-based institution, that was the main thing that drew me to enroll,” Isles said. “After being enrolled, I realize that Liberty University has an outstanding program and very knowledgeable teachers, which make me want to stay at Liberty.”
Isles advised prospective students to be disciplined and study hard. She also added that time management skills are especially important for those who hope to maintain their current job while taking classes. “Sometimes it seems that there is plenty of time to turn in your work or test, and you find yourself procrastinating,” Isles said. “This can become a bad habit and will affect your grade.”
Isles recommended that students always try to work ahead to keep from falling behind. She also explained that maintaining communication with professors and classmates is essential. “Email them and ask questions, but overall, do not give up. It is common to feel tired and overwhelmed sometimes, but I assure you, it will get better,” she said. “It is a rewarding feeling when you see the fruits of your hard work.”
