Colorado Tech Online Students and Alumni
Interview with Samuel Brackeen - Ardmore, Oklahoma
MSM with a concentration in Business Management
MSM with a concentration in Project Management
CTU Colorado Springs Doctoral Program – Current student-Organizational Behavior in Modern Technology
What made you decide to continue your education?
My wife was instrumental in helping make my decision. She has always been my number one supporter. Throughout my lifetime, I had struggled in school and after dropping out in the early 80's I decided to return to school in the late 90's. I started my educational path by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Technology through AIU Online and then I decided to continue my education at a Master's level through Colorado Tech Online. I started out with the desire to earn a better living and enough income to support my family.
I had to consider the cost of an education and how much it would cost me not only financially but also with time taken away from my family. I knew I would have to focus a lot of my attention on my studies. The responsibility of taking on the task of continuing my education has been great but my family support has been phenomenal. During my degree programs there were several events in my personal life that almost forced me to drop out – yet I somehow persevered. Knowing that I was committed to my goals I kept in communication with the University and was able to complete everything that was necessary.
I was like any other prospective student researching Colorado Tech Online as well as other online universities, checking out all of the degree and career options. The main thing that really helped make my decision was the structure at Colorado Tech Online.
After earning my Master's degree with dual concentrations, the staff at Colorado Technical University encouraged me to continue on to pursue my doctorate degree upon learning I had relocated to Colorado Springs, CO. (CTU offers a doctoral program at the Colorado Springs campus.) For entrance to the program I had to write an essay to prove I was doctoral material. I am in my second year of the doctoral program and can say CTU had really given me a challenge.
How would you describe your learning experience with Colorado Tech Online?
My learning experience with Colorado Tech Online was just phenomenal. The experience has opened up doors for me in many professional areas. Without Colorado Tech Online I would not be where I am today in my career. The main thing about Colorado Tech Online that captured my attention was the ease of communication between the students and the instructors. Students can communicate with their instructors easily and frequently.
Regardless of the time of day or my location, as long as I had internet access I could connect to the Virtual Campus. Technical Support was there 24/7 if I needed help with the technology. The Virtual Campus has grown a lot in the last couple of years. The online library was very useful and I utilized it a lot throughout my courses. The Virtual Commons for the alumni is great because you can see what is going on with your classmates and keep in touch. I found the Virtual Campus to be on the cutting edge of technology.
My interaction with the Career Services department was very positive. At one point I contacted them when I was laid off and immediately got an email back with useful feedback and even some job leads in different areas of the country. I was very impressed with the resource that was available to me and the responsiveness of the group.
So where are you now in your career?
I am currently employed by Dell, Inc. as a Senior Help Desk Technician, and at the same time building my network company. I am able to utilize the organizational behavior and critical thinking concepts from some of my courses through Colorado Tech Online everyday in my current job. I found that most all of the courses applied to the industry and utilized real-life business situations. All of my courses have made a major impact in my job performance and will make me more marketable as other companies are already seeking me out. Colorado Tech Online has paved the way for other companies to express interest in my skills and abilities. My career path is headed in an upward direction and I am ready for as many options as offered.
What is your ultimate career goal?
My ultimate career goal is to start a government funded program - a technology school that teaches handicapped and disadvantaged people that have limited technology background. I also currently am involved in community based activities such as helping out at the YMCA, Toastmasters, and educating others on technology and I plan to continue those activities as well.
What inspires me is that I know one day I will be able to fulfill all my dreams, financially and educationally and will be able to have an impact in the community. Educationally I believe I'm at the top of my game. I am confident and comfortable but yet I am still humble and eternally grateful I've had this opportunity.
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