When Liz Abitante began her journey at Ashford University*, she already had an undergraduate degree under her belt. Nevertheless, she knew that continuing her education and increasing her knowledge could only benefit her in the long run. So when the right opportunity presented itself, Liz jumped at the chance to return to school.

“I knew that I never wanted to get to a point where I stopped learning, and I felt like it was the right time in my life to jump into a program and dedicate the time needed to be successful,” Liz explains.

Like many Ashford University* students, Stephanie Wilfong was inspired by her family to head back to school and start working on a pair of life-changing college degrees. Now, as she nears the end of her degree programs, she looks back on her Ashford journey.

Like many graduates fresh out of high school, Stacee Chaney decided her next step would be college. She packed up and moved from her hometown of Flint, Michigan to Atlanta to pursue a degree in computer science. But she quickly realized that college wasn’t for her at that moment in her life, and she opted to begin her career instead. Fourteen years later, Stacee’s career led her back to college and she found a perfect fit at Ashford University*.

Life can change in a flash, and the path that you’ve carved out for yourself can suddenly veer in new directions, bringing anxiety and uncertainty that can be difficult to overcome.

Ricardo Fogel’s life took an unexpected turn in December 2012 while he was working at a construction site. He spent the day constructing a water well and hauling heavy wooden boards and drill bits around the site. At the end of the day, he remembers having trouble walking or standing on both feet.

“Learning is a continuous process,” explains Quinette Covington, a medical professional and small business owner whose academic path doesn’t have a defined endpoint. Because of her relentless pursuit of knowledge, she fits the definition of a lifelong learner.

Onalee Devereaux is not afraid to push herself. The 25-year-old spent six years in the military before signing up for duty as a police officer, investigator, and investigative support technician. But intellectual curiosity and a desire to reach her full potential prompted Onalee to head back to school and pursue a college education.

“I think it is most people’s goal to become the best version of themselves,” she explains. “Earning a degree helps us grow toward this goal in many ways – it’s not just book smarts.”