In this Bushnell University online student Q&A, we explore the inspiring journeys of students who have answered the call to pursue their education through Bushnell University’s online degree programs and how they plan to make a positive impact within their communities.
Christina Baker
Program: Interdisciplinary Studies (Pre-Nursing)
What inspired you to pursue your nursing degree?
After working in the medical field for over twelve years I decided that I wanted to further my education. I have this urge to better myself so that I can be a better person, mother, grandmother, and sister. There is always a place for a great RN.
What impact do you hope to have on your community?
I have a passion for helping others, hoping to make a difference in their time of need good or bad. I hope to show others how dedication and compassion can make a positive impact on patients’ lives.
What excites you most about the field of nursing?
I am excited for all the diversity that this career brings along with all the opportunities for continuous learning. So many directions this career can take me, possibilities are endless even at my age. So many great people to meet and new technology, treatments and research out there evolving every day.
Codey Crawford
Program: Interdisciplinary Studies (criminal justice, history, and communication)
What inspired you to pursue a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies?
I have been in my career field for ten years. In those ten years I have grown as a professional and realized I want to further advance into higher levels of management. I decided furthering my education would be a necessary step in accomplishing that goal. Furthering my education is also a huge benefit in my normal day-to-day duties.
What impact do you hope to have on your community?
I work in a profession where communication is critical. I hope that I can be an ambassador for my agency, profession and most importantly my community. I have come to realize that communication is so crucial in building successful teams and resolving complex problems.
What excites you most about the multiple disciplines within the Interdisciplinary Studies program?
I am most excited in learning how to better communicate. In the professional setting one of the most common forms of communication is in written form. I have found that poor written communication skills can lead to miscommunication. I strive to make certain my message is received the way I had intended. This program has already provided me with tools to enhance my skills as a professional communicator.
Stacey Wagner
Program: Forensic Psychology
What inspired you to pursue a degree in Forensic Psychology?
Since I was young, I have been intrigued with the criminal justice system, as well as psychology. I am fascinated by what makes people do the things that they do, and how that relates to criminology. I have also worked in a psychiatric residential facility for the last several years and finishing my degree has aided me in better understanding the demographic I work with.
What impact do you hope to have on your community?
I am hoping to utilize my education by continuing to work with children who may be at-risk of going into the juvenile justice system, or who currently are within the system. My focus recently has been on recidivism as well as programs and therapies to implement into the criminal justice system that could potentially decrease the risk of individuals reoffending. I hope to continue learning about these programs and find an opportunity to be a part of them for adolescents.
What excites you most about the forensic psychology field?
All of the topics within this field have been engaging and impactful, and I am excited to see how this field grows in the coming years. What excites me the most is the possibility of changing and improving the quality of life for those who have experienced trauma which led them on a pathway to delinquency.
Bushnell online programs are designed to meet the needs of busy, working adults. Most programs can be accelerated or decelerated to meet the needs of you pace, schedule, and finances. With an 8-week format, students take just one or two classes at a time. To learn more information, visit our online admissions web page.