Austin Peay STEM empowers nontraditional students’ diverse paths to academic success
By: Colby Wilson October 31, 2024
Samantha Ramirez, a senior in medical laboratory science, exemplifies the grit and determination characteristic of nontraditional students.
Austin Peay STEM empowers nontraditional students’ diverse paths to academic success
The Austin Peay State University College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) strives to provide a unique and supportive environment for nontraditional students. Balancing academic aspirations with personal commitments, they enhance the university community.
Diverse Paths Converge in STEM
The journey to higher education is as diverse as the students. Samantha Ramirez, a senior in medical laboratory science, exemplifies the grit and determination of nontraditional students. Raised by her grandparents with advanced degrees, Ramirez envisioned furthering her education. After earning her GED and prioritizing her family, she began university studies in 2022. On track to graduate in May 2025, her story underscores how life experiences can propel academic success.
Peggy Lewis' journey is equally compelling. Transitioning through various industries, including customer service and automotive, Lewis sought stability and specialization. "I wanted to get a skill other than customer service that I could transfer, use on my own, maybe start my own business," she explained. The supportive environment played a crucial role in her decision to return to school, balancing studies with responsibilities as a single mother of two.
Supportive Faculty and Resources Make a Difference
Supportive faculty are pivotal in the success stories of nontraditional students. Ramirez praised the guidance of professors like Drs. Don Dailey and Manisha Gupte for their personalized support and encouragement. "Just sitting down in Dr. Gupte’s office and having her explain things step by step has been so helpful," Ramirez recounted, emphasizing the value of faculty who go beyond traditional teaching roles.
Lewis acknowledged the pivotal role faculty played in her success, singling out professors such as Drs. John Nicholson and Saied Samadidana for their dedication and practical advice. "They've been amazing at helping me to go from zero to where I am now," Lewis said.
Colleen White, right, with Michelle Rogers, a master instructor in the College of STEM.
Balancing Life, Work and Learning
Balancing education with personal and professional responsibilities is a constant challenge. Colleen White, an Army veteran and mother, is now an instructor in the College of STEM. Her story demonstrates this intricate balance. After serving in the military, White returned to pursue biology degrees. Reflecting on her time as a student and now an instructor, she emphasized the support she received, both academically and personally. "I was an undergraduate research assistant here, and I don't even know if they have those anymore," White reflected, illustrating how her involvement in research enriched her educational experience.
Time management is essential for these students. Ramirez described her disciplined schedule, staying on campus until late afternoon to maintain her academic progress. Lewis incorporated study time into her family's evening routine. "My kids and I, we all have homework and we all have assignments that are due, and we kind of just discuss that amongst ourselves around the dinner table," she explained, highlighting the integration of education into family life.
Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs
The journey back to education is not without its hurdles. Ramirez faced the daunting task of catching up on foundational topics like biology and chemistry, which she missed after dropping out of high school and attaining her GED. Her commitment has paid off, resulting in a GPA of 3.47. "I think I might be pre-med if I just want to work," she said, contemplating her future with optimism.
Lewis reflected on her initial apprehensions and encouraged others to embrace the challenge. "Just hang in there. It can be tough at first, and it can be overwhelming," she advised. Her journey shows the power of perseverance and education in opening new doors.
The Strength of a Supportive Community
The experiences of nontraditional students highlight the importance of community within the College of STEM and that there is no single “collegiate experience.” While some, like Ramirez, can fully immerse themselves in campus life, others, like White and Lewis, juggle academic commitments with family and work. Despite their varied paths, these students share a common goal: to succeed in attaining their degrees, pursuing their career goals and contributing to their communities.
As the College of STEM fosters an inclusive environment, these students' stories remind us of education's impact. Their journeys inspire peers and faculty and resonate with families and communities, affirming that it's never too late to pursue dreams.
In conclusion, the nontraditional student experience in the College of STEM showcases resilience, community support, and the transformative power of education. These students' stories inspire others to consider a return to academia, proving that success is achievable with determination and support.
About the Austin Peay College of STEM
The College of Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) provides studies for students in the areas of agriculture, astronomy, aviation sciences, biology, chemistry, computer science, earth and environmental sciences, engineering physics, engineering technology, information technology, mathematics, medical laboratory sciences, radiologic sciences and physics. Our outstanding, discipline-based programs are student-centered and designed to prepare students for responsible positions at all levels of research, industry, education, medicine and government.
