If the past few years have taught me anything, it is not to have a plan because nothing is guaranteed. I decided to earn my DMSc to keep doorways open, should current ones close.

I heard about ATSU’s DMSc program through professional social media boards. I was beginning to determine if completing a doctorate was the right thing for me during this phase of my career and personal life. I do not have formal training in education. I enjoy teaching and conference speaking and want a better understanding of adult learning theory. ATSU’s DMSc program did not require previous professional experience in education, which sparked my interest.

Dr. Danielsen was highly instrumental in my decision to join the DMSc program. He not only made himself available for a phone conference but sent many follow-up emails to not only help me understand the vision of the new program, but also the projection of its future.

Compared to other DMSc programs, I thought the costs were competitive and had a conversation with my employer on the tuition reimbursement policy, which also reduced my financial burden.

Before starting the DMSc program, I completed two graduate programs online. The main expectation I had coming in was learning from my colleagues, students, and professors. Everyone brings a different skillset with them and learning from others has exceeded my expectations. Some of the best feedback I receive is from students providing examples from their life experiences.

I have a diverse graduate education, and I thought the DMSc program would help me find a connection with all my academic and professional experiences, and it has. The program has expanded the way I evaluate patients as I consider more of the social influences that may be impacting their decisions and continue to look for ways to create preventative pathways to reduce occurrences of acute care situations.