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| Kidada Rowe and her son at a family birthday celebration. |
Kidada Rowe, 45
Georgia Gwinnett College
Major: Special Education
Expected Graduation: 2022
At 45 years old, Kidada's career hit an unexpected bump in the road. Instead of letting that derail her life, she decided to return to college and pursue her newfound passion: Special Education. Read more about Kidada, and how her son inspired her to become a "builder of family bridges" in the education system.
Tell us a little about yourself. Other than being a college student, how do you spend your time?
I am a full-time mom, raising my son to be a terrific human being. I aspire to be a teaching assistant in order to pave the way for a career as an educator. I spend a large portion of my time developing my son, who has specific needs— watching movies with him, playing games with him, practicing social situations with him, enjoying life with him, and talking to him about the importance of a good education. We enjoy playing tennis and basketball, as well.
I really enjoy first-hand documentaries with real-life people talking about their lives and events that have impacted them. I love the human brain and finding out what makes people think, act, and do the things they do.
What circumstances led you to enroll in college at this time in your life?
I recently separated from my long-time employer, a place where I thought I would retire. After that, I decided to enroll in college for better career opportunities.
Why did you choose Georgia Gwinnett College?
I chose GGC because they offered my degree program and they were the least expensive in town.
Why is completing your degree important to you?
I have always felt empty and somewhat unsuccessful without a college degree. What made it critical for me was my developing the need to understand the varying level of abilities that people have and how that affects all areas of their lives. I am ready to become an educator and a builder of education, compassion, and family bridges.
How many eCore (or other online) courses have you taken so far?
I have taken seven eCore courses and a few hybrid courses.
Why did you choose to take online classes vs. going to campus?
I was working many hours so I didn't have time to travel to school, and I was curious about the eCore experience.
What has been your experience with eCore classes?
My experiences have all been pretty good. My professors have always been really understanding and easy to communicate with. During my first eCore semester, the best advice a professor gave me (and I give to others) was to stay on course. Please do not think that because it is online you will have time to catch up. You don't and you won't. The work will pile up. I feel the courses go by smoothly as long as you adhere to a schedule for yourself, due dates, and deadlines. I enjoy not traveling in traffic, looking for parking, and the freedom to "attend" your course at any time that works best for you.
How and when do you make time for your schoolwork?
It was very tough at first, but what works best for me is to make a schedule just like you would if you were attending a class. Now, I have a weekly schedule and I put my daily routine in every slot including breaks, lunch, shower, bonding time with my son, exercise, etc. This helps me avoid wasting valuable time. When you know what your week looks like, you know what to do.
What would you say to someone who is considering taking their first online class?
I would say go for it with discipline and you will have much success. The eCore professors seem to really understand the dynamics of their students and that they vary. They really work with you because they know life happens and so do unexpected situations. They want all of their students to succeed.
Visit the eCore website to learn more about online core classes available through Georgia Gwinnett College and 20 other colleges and universities across Georgia.
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