  {"id":187,"date":"2019-04-29T15:04:59","date_gmt":"2019-04-29T19:04:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/?page_id=187"},"modified":"2022-07-05T14:46:37","modified_gmt":"2022-07-05T18:46:37","slug":"alumni-profiles","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/","title":{"rendered":"DCP Alumni Profiles"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"accordions\">\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'The program is set up for you to succeed, and honestly, in a world where people often try to tear you down, this was hugely encouraging.'  <strong>Lara Ghougasian-Bairamian,<\/strong><strong> Ramapo Class of 2021<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cThe program is set up for you to succeed, and honestly, in a world where people often try to tear you down, this was hugely encouraging.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Lara Ghougasian-Bairamian<\/strong><\/h4>\n<h4><strong>Major: Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I always wanted to finish school and get my Bachelor&#8217;s degree but it was not feasible for me to quit my job to attend college. And many schools don\u2019t make it easy for a working adult, so when I heard about the Degree Completion Program at Ramapo, I wanted to know more. \u00a0I called the school to get some more information and once I learned more about the program, I was sold. I had found the place that was perfect for me, and I am so thankful that I did because this program changed my life in so many ways.<\/p>\n<p>The most challenging part of coming back to college, and with this program specifically, was the fact that there was pretty much no break in between semesters for 2 years. It was a double-edged sword: on the positive side, classes moved quickly and you never really got out of &#8220;school mode,&#8221; but it was intense.<\/p>\n<p>That said, I was surprised by how simple it was to reenroll and work on reaching my goal of a college degree. The program is set up for you to succeed, and honestly, in a world where people often try to tear you down, this was hugely encouraging. The professors all want the best for you and they are so eager to help. \u00a0That was a new experience for me, compared with other colleges I attended in the past.<\/p>\n<p>Within a year of graduating, I landed a job at Peloton AND received a promotion!\u00a0 Although employers may say they don&#8217;t care if you have a degree or not, they really do.<\/p>\n<p>At Ramapo, I also made some lifelong friends. During my two years in the program, I was going through some tough times in my personal life. This program allowed me to meet other people on a similar journey and to create close relationships with some amazing people.<\/p>\n<p>If you are thinking of going back to school, look no further! \u00a0Although Ramapo was not initially my first choice, once I learned more and realized how much the Degree Completion Program advocated for its adult students, I was thankful it was an option. Take the chance on yourself, it\u2019s worth it!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'Once I realized that I had more than half of the required credits to graduate, I was motivated to finish my bachelor\u2019s degree.'  <strong>Wendy Ayala, Ramapo Class of 2021<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cOnce I realized that I had more than half of the required credits to graduate, I was motivated to finish my bachelor\u2019s degree.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Wendy Ayala<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Once I realized that I had more than half of the required credits to graduate, I was motivated to finish my bachelor\u2019s degree. \u00a0I was afraid of returning to college and being the eldest in class. But that wasn\u2019t an issue in the Degree Completion Program because most of my classmate were about my age.\u00a0 And Ramapo made the enrollment process very easy.\u00a0 Earning my degree gave me such a sense of accomplishment!<\/p>\n<p>The best advice I can give to an adult thinking about returning to college is: don&#8217;t overthink it. Don&#8217;t be intimidated by your age.\u00a0 And if writing essays is not your forte, Ramapo has a Center for Reading and Writing to help you out.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'It took many years for me to decide to return to college, but I did it and demonstrated to my son that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to.'  <strong>Aracelis Ruiz, Ramapo Class of 2021<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cThough I previously had the experience in my field, most jobs required the degree. Now I have both! It took many years for me to decide to return to college, but I did it and demonstrated to my son that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Aracelis Ruiz<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I decided to look into returning to school because I was stuck at a job that I disliked and had no future in. I had attended Ramapo previously and decided to return there in order to give myself a chance at finding a career I loved.\u00a0 Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program made me see that it was possible to return to college at this stage in my life.<\/p>\n<p>The process of re-enrolling through the Degree Completion Program was very smooth. \u00a0Balancing work, school and my personal life was not easy, but it was doable. \u00a0It required help from my loved ones in caring for my child, and lots of planning and scheduling on my part.\u00a0 And the program director provided guidance and reassurance every step of the way.<\/p>\n<p>Earning my degree opened up the opportunity to get a new job. Though I previously had the experience in my field, most jobs required the degree. Now I have both!\u00a0 I was also able to prove to myself that I am capable of doing new or difficult things. It took many years for me to decide to return to college, but I did it and demonstrated to my son that you can accomplish whatever you set your mind to.<\/p>\n<p>If you are thinking about finishing your degree, my advice is to take it one step at a time. \u00a0It can be overwhelming if you try to do it all. Take the amount of classes\/credits that you can handle, and don\u2019t worry about how long it will take. Ask as many questions as you need to. Ask for help when you need it&#8211;your professors are there to help you.\u00a0 And remember that you are not alone throughout this process and that you will be so proud of yourself once you obtain your degree!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'I just got a new job a few months ago and am making $25,000 more than what I was making in my old job.'  <strong>Linda Sisti, Ramapo Class of 2021<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cI just got a new job a few months ago and am making $25,000 more than what I was making in my old job.\u00a0 And having my degree just gives me peace of mind.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Linda Sisti<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>It was always in the back of my mind to complete my degree.\u00a0 Once my younger son went off to college, I decided that it was the right time. \u00a0At Ramapo, my degree plan was mapped out for me, but also included options for adjustments.<\/p>\n<p>Initially I was afraid that I would not be able to balance work and school, so I made sure that I set aside time each night to focus on my homework.\u00a0 I also always went ahead and completed future assignments, especially if I knew I had something going on and thought I might not be able to complete it on time.<\/p>\n<p>I just got a new job a few months ago and am making $25,000 more than what I was making in my old job. And having my degree just gives me peace of mind. It something that had always been weighing on me.<\/p>\n<p>Although it may seem very daunting, returning to school really is manageable if you take the time to plan ahead. \u00a0And Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program made the process so easy and painless!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'I felt that the professors respected us as working, career-minded professionals.'  <strong>Nikole Duch, Ramapo Class of 2020<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cI felt that the professors respected us as working, career-minded professionals.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Nikole Duch<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>Before enrolling at Ramapo, I researched several schools that had programs for working adults. I also have friends and colleagues who attended Ramapo, so I was aware of the college and its reputation as a great in-state school. When I learned about the Degree Completion Program, I really felt that the program set-up would benefit me as a working adult student. In particular, I liked the cohort program structure and the set schedule of in-person classes, as well as the mix of in-person, hybrid and online classes. I also liked the accelerated course schedule because I knew that if it was going to take a long time to earn my BA, I would never finish.<\/p>\n<p>I was surprised by how much I really enjoyed the in-person classes and interactive, lively discussions with the professors and my classmates. I felt that the professors respected us as working, career-minded professionals. I learned so much from the in-class conversations alone.<\/p>\n<p>Since graduating, I\u2019ve been elevated to a lead role at my company, managing our customer compliance program. I have taken on additional responsibility and am learning new skills.\u00a0 Education is highly valued at my company, and I don\u2019t believe that I would have been given additional responsibilities if I had not finished my degree.<\/p>\n<p>I feel more confident about myself and abilities now that I have my degree. Not having my degree was always something that I was embarrassed about, but now I feel that I am &#8220;equal&#8221; to my peers and colleagues.\u00a0 My advice to other students is to just do it.\u00a0 It will not be easy, it will take a lot of time and dedication, but it will be well worth it in the end.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'The pride I have in finishing my degree has been tremendous. Also knowing that when it\u2019s time for me to look for another job I have more prospects is extremely comforting.'  <strong>Sarah Devenney, Ramapo Class of 2020<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cThe pride I have in finishing my degree has been tremendous. Also knowing that when it\u2019s time for me to look for another job I have more prospects is extremely comforting.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Sarah Devenney<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I was motivated to return to Ramapo when I heard about the Degree Completion Program. I had gone to Ramapo for a few semesters years prior and was always happy with the campus and classes.\u00a0 I was frustrated paying off loans when I didn\u2019t even have the degree to show for it. \u00a0I wanted to finally finish my Bachelors and returning to Ramapo seemed like the best choice. \u00a0I was excited when I found out they had this program specifically geared towards returning students.<\/p>\n<p>The most challenging part of coming back to college was juggling the classwork with my other responsibilities, like life and family. I tackled that challenge by making sure I was always organized and knew what was due when so that I could best prioritize my time.<\/p>\n<p>I was surprised at how helpful the staff was at Ramapo. During my first time at college, I never took advantage of any resources. This time if I had a problem, I knew I could reach out to staff and be helped.<\/p>\n<p>The pride I have in finishing my degree has been tremendous. Also knowing that when it\u2019s time for me to look for another job I have more prospects is extremely comforting.<\/p>\n<p>I would highly encourage anyone thinking about returning to seek help when needed and utilize all the resources available to them.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'I was able to qualify for a promotion and a salary increase as a result of my degree. Plus, I gained a new professional network through the peers in my cohort.'  <strong>Robertson Guercy, Ramapo Class of 2020, Ramapo MBA graduate 2022<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cI was able to qualify for a promotion and a salary increase as a result of my degree. Plus, I gained a new professional network through the peers in my cohort.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Robertson Guercy<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I enrolled at Ramapo because my employer required me to have a degree.\u00a0 I was concerned about being able to manage my time in order to complete my coursework along with my job and family responsibilities. \u00a0I wouldn\u2019t have been able to complete the program without the support of my wife assisting with our children creating a space for me to study and attend my courses in the evenings.<\/p>\n<p>When I began the Degree Completion Program, it was comforting to know that I wasn&#8217;t the only one with these concerns; many of my peers in the adult cohort were experiencing similar challenges balancing work, school and family. \u00a0But we came together and encouraged one another every week.<\/p>\n<p>It was worth it. I was able to qualify for a promotion and a salary increase as a result of my degree. Plus, I gained a new professional network through the peers in my cohort.\u00a0 Most importantly, I showed my young children that with hard work and determination, earning a degree is possible.\u00a0 If you\u2019re hesitating about returning to college, I recommend that you just start with one class and everything else will fall into place!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'What surprised me is that there are many people like me who want to earn their degrees as adults!'  <strong>Luis Hernandez, Ramapo Class of 2020<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cI had procrastinated about finishing my degree for a few years because I did not think I was going to have the time for it. \u00a0What surprised me is that there are many people like me who want to earn their degrees as adults!\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Luis R. Hernandez<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I started at Ramapo many years ago and after raising kids, I wanted to go back to finish my degree. I chose to return to Ramapo because of their adult hybrid accelerated program which allowed me to complete courses at a pace that worked for me.\u00a0 Finishing my degree is about my third infancy as a retiree.\u00a0 I wanted to be prepared for new possibilities in the future.\u00a0 For example, I love to teach and mentor, but in order to work with certain organizations, a college degree is required.<\/p>\n<p>It took some discipline to get back into doing homework, especially since I had a demanding IT job. I had to make the time to prepare and actively participate in class so as to not fall behind. Having other professionals from different walks of life in my classes made it easier.\u00a0 We would work together and share our experiences to get the work done and get good grades. I had procrastinated about finishing my degree for a few years because I did not think I was going to have the time for it. \u00a0What surprised me is that there are many people like me who want to earn their degrees as adults!<\/p>\n<p>For me, achieving success meant making a commitment and setting the time aside.\u00a0 You need to work with your family because they are in it too, whether they know it or not. And always check out if your employer is willing to help lessen your financial burden.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'While enrolled at Ramapo, I learned about new opportunities and made meaningful connections which led me to a new career path.'  <strong>Andrew Lunau, Ramapo Class of 2020<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cWhile enrolled at Ramapo, I learned about new opportunities and made meaningful connections which led me to a new career path.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Andrew Lunau<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Business Administration: Marketing major, Finance minor<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I felt that not having a bachelor&#8217;s degree would hinder my future employability and I wanted to change that. I researched schools that were within a reasonable commuting distance and able to accommodate my work schedule.\u00a0 Then I learned about Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program and it was exactly what I was looking for.<\/p>\n<p>It was challenging to give my full effort both at work and in my classes, but by holding myself to a scheduled time for completing classwork, it was very manageable.\u00a0 I was surprised to find that even after six years away from the college environment, it was easier than expected to re-acclimate myself.<\/p>\n<p>While enrolled at Ramapo, I learned about new opportunities and made meaningful connections which led me to a new career path. Since graduating, I&#8217;ve found a satisfying position in that field, which wouldn\u2019t have happened had I not completed my degree.\u00a0 Finishing your degree is a much more attainable goal than you might think. Don&#8217;t hesitate, it will be worth it.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'I exceeded my own expectations and now I am more confident in myself.'  <strong>Manuela Miccoli,<\/strong> Ramapo Class of 2020, current Ramapo MSW student<\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cI exceeded my own expectations and now I am more confident in myself.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Manuela Miccoli<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I returned to Ramapo to finish what I had started many years before. \u00a0I had set a personal and professional goal for myself, and knew I needed my bachelors in order to achieve it.<\/p>\n<p>I had been out of the classroom for over twenty-five years. I was anxious and afraid to return, not sure if I would be able to make it. As a full-time working wife and mother, I wasn\u2019t sure how I\u2019d find the time to study and get to campus. But I did. I wanted to succeed more than anything so I dove in and just started paddling until I made it to the finish line and graduated.<\/p>\n<p>Earning my bachelor\u2019s degree has allowed me to pursue my graduate studies at Ramapo so I can start a brand-new career in social work and eventually become an LCSW.<\/p>\n<p>What surprised me? I surprised me. I exceeded my own expectations and now I am more confident in myself. I want others to know that you won\u2019t regret challenging yourself. \u00a0It\u2019s hard work but it\u2019s worth it. You are worth it.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'Since earning my degree, I became the coordinator for the most important programs at the agency I work for. And I got a raise!'  <strong>Rodrigo Barrera, Ramapo Class of 2020<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cSince earning my degree, I became the coordinator for the most important programs at the agency I work for. And I got a raise!\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Rodrigo Barrera<br \/>\n<\/strong><strong>Major: Social Science<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p>I returned to school in order to move forward in my profession.\u00a0 I was afraid that I would be out of my element.\u00a0 I didn\u2019t want to take classes with younger students when I had nothing in common with them.\u00a0 But at Ramapo, I found I was not alone and I had a lot of classmates in the same boat. \u00a0It was very encouraging.<\/p>\n<p>Since earning my degree, I became the coordinator for the most important programs at the agency I work for. And I got a raise!\u00a0 My advice for others thinking about going back to school is do not hesitate. Just do it and you won\u2019t even notice how fast the time flies when you have a goal.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'In two years, I\u2019m going to be two years older, regardless. So why not give it a try?'  <strong>Tara Podhayny, Ramapo Class of 2017<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cIn two years, I\u2019m going to be two years older, regardless.\u00a0 So why not give [earning my bachelor&#8217;s degree] a try?\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4><strong>Major: Contemporary Arts: Professional Communication<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Current occupation: Branch Manager\/Vice President for JP Morgan Chase &amp; Co<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p><strong>Tara Podhayny<\/strong>\u2019s academic journey began in 2008 when she started her associate\u2019s degree. \u00a0Like so many adults, she juggled family demands, from her youngest daughter starting high school to her father needing more care.\u00a0 This made earning her associates a start-and-stop process. \u00a0When her youngest graduated from college, Tara asked herself what was next.\u00a0 She saw an online ad for Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program and thought,<strong><em> \u201cIn two years, I\u2019m going to be two years older, regardless.\u00a0 So why not give it a try?\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>In 2015, she enrolled in Ramapo and indeed, two years later, earned her BA. \u00a0Her very first course, Speech for Communication Arts, has had a lasting impact.\u00a0<strong><em> \u201cI remember the instructor silently counting and then announcing to everyone the number of \u2018ums\u2019 in each student\u2019s speech. To this day, I actively work to eliminate \u2018um\u2019 from my presentations!\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For Tara, the highlight of the Degree Completion Program was the diversity of students she met in her cohort.\u00a0 <em><strong>\u201cEven though we were all different ages, we had a lot in common.\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0<\/em> Beyond her diploma, Tara says she earned a sense of confidence.\u00a0<strong><em> \u201cWhen you don\u2019t have a college degree, you work hard to avoid the questions that come up in casual conversations\u2014where did you go to school, what did you study?\u00a0 I really wanted to be part of that club.\u201d<\/em>\u00a0<\/strong> In fact, her positive experience as an adult student propelled her to earn her Ed.M. in Adult and Continuing Education from Rutgers University in 2019.<\/p>\n<p>Her advice to other students who want to be part of the conversation is to know what resources you have in place: <em>\u00a0<strong>\u201cI had the support of my family and my employer, and both were crucial to my success.\u201d<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'Before my mother passed away from a long illness, I promised her I would finish my college degree.  The Degree Completion Program helped me keep that promise.'  <strong>Noah Melamed, Ramapo Class of 2017<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u201cBeing part of an adult cohort and learning with people who had similar experiences was a huge benefit.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4>Major: Social Science<br \/>\nCurrent occupation:\u00a0 Program Coordinator, University Hospital, Newark NJ<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Noah Melamed<\/strong> enrolled in college immediately out of high school, but found he didn\u2019t enjoy it.\u00a0 He became involved in EMS and found his passion. However, he quickly discovered that despite his extensive professional experience, any promotion or advancement would require a bachelors\u2019 degree. Noah enrolled in an online degree program, but missed the in-person interactions with instructors and other students.\u00a0 Through Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program, he found those connections:<strong><em> \u201cBeing part of an adult cohort and learning with people who had similar experiences was a huge benefit.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>For Noah, the program\u2019s year-round course schedule provided the structure he needed to stay focused.<strong><em>\u201cOnce I had the confidence that I could do this, the Degree Completion Program gave me the momentum to finish.\u201d<\/em> <\/strong>He advises other adult students to beware the pressure of impossibly high standards. <strong><em>\u201cOccasionally, my drive for perfection held me back. I finally realized that not everything needs to be perfect on the first, or even the last, try.\u00a0 What\u2019s most important is to get it done.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>With his BA in hand, Noah advanced his career by becoming a Program Coordinator at University Hospital, where he designs and delivers preparedness training programs for the public, first responders, and hospital staff. However, in additional to his professional goals, Noah also had a very personal motivation for returning to school:<strong><em> \u201cBefore my mother passed away from a long illness, I promised her I would finish my college degree.\u00a0 The Degree Completion Program helped me keep that promise.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"item\"><p class=\"question\" tabindex=\"0\"><span class=\"fa-stack\"><i class=\"fa fa-circle fa-stack-2x\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-plus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><i class=\"fa fa-minus fa-stack-1x fa-inverse\"><\/i><\/span> 'The faculty realized that we were making a lot of sacrifices to be in their classrooms.  They recognized that we brought a lot to the table, and I felt they valued our contributions.'  <strong>Ken Clark, Ramapo Class of 2015<\/strong><\/p><div>\n<div class=\"infoBox col-sm-12 col-lg-12  grayBox\"><div class=\"boxContent\">\n<h4 style=\"text-align: center\">\u00a0 \u201cThe faculty realized that we were making a lot of sacrifices to be in their classrooms.\u00a0 They recognized that we brought a lot to the table, and I felt they valued our contributions.\u201d<\/h4>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h4>Major: Social Science<br \/>\nCurrent occupation:\u00a0 Consulting Manager at W-Systems, a CRM, sales and marketing solutions company<\/h4>\n<p><strong>Ken Clark\u2019s<\/strong> impetus to finish his bachelor\u2019s degree had roots very close to home. <strong>\u201c<\/strong><em><strong>My son was starting his junior year of high school, so we were having many conversations about college.\u00a0 And I wondered, how can I stress to him the importance of a college degree when I didn\u2019t finish my college degree?\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0<\/em> So in the Fall of 2013, he enrolled in Ramapo\u2019s Degree Completion Program to set an example for his son.<\/p>\n<p>Ken readily admits that the hardest part of returning to school was balancing classes and homework along with the other responsibilities\u2014full-time work and family needs\u2014in his life. However, forming a community with the other adult students in his Degree Completion Program classes made the investment a bit easier: <strong><em>\u201cI looked forward to seeing my classmates each week.\u00a0 Knowing I was part of that community made the time commitment worth it.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>He greatly appreciate the support from his instructors. <strong><em>\u201cThe faculty realized that we were making a lot of sacrifices to be in their classrooms.\u00a0 They recognized that we brought a lot to the table, and I felt they valued our contributions.\u201d<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Ken\u2019s advice for new students is to keep an open mind.\u00a0 \u201d<em>One of your classmates may have knowledge or experience that is different than yours and that could actually completely change your point of view on a subject.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; \u00a0<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":453,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-187","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v21.5 (Yoast SEO v27.1.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>DCP Alumni Profiles - Degree Completion Program<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"DCP Alumni Profiles\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; \u00a0\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Degree Completion Program\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2022-07-05T18:46:37+00:00\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"21 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/\",\"name\":\"DCP Alumni Profiles - Degree Completion Program\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2019-04-29T19:04:59+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-07-05T18:46:37+00:00\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"DCP Alumni Profiles\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/\",\"name\":\"Degree Completion Program\",\"description\":\"\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"DCP Alumni Profiles - Degree Completion Program","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"DCP Alumni Profiles","og_description":"&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; \u00a0","og_url":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/","og_site_name":"Degree Completion Program","article_modified_time":"2022-07-05T18:46:37+00:00","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Est. reading time":"21 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/","url":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/","name":"DCP Alumni Profiles - Degree Completion Program","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/#website"},"datePublished":"2019-04-29T19:04:59+00:00","dateModified":"2022-07-05T18:46:37+00:00","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/alumni-profiles\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"DCP Alumni Profiles"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/","name":"Degree Completion Program","description":"","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/187","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/453"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=187"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/187\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1300,"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/187\/revisions\/1300"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ramapo.edu\/dcp\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=187"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}