University of Kentucky®
Meg Mills always knew she wanted to get her master’s degree. After completing her undergraduate degree at Coker University in South Carolina, Mills decided to move back home to Lexington and pursue a career in public relations at the University of Kentucky. She took a full time job with the university, but knew that she needed a flexible way to pursue her master’s degree without compromising her career.
The Advantages of Online Programs
“The online program for me was ideal because I had a full time job, and being a PR professional, my schedule is very chaotic,” says Mills. “So having a degree that’s completely online gave me the flexibility I needed to be successful in my full time job, but also successful in getting my master’s degree.”
Mills is enrolled in the Information Communication Technology master’s degree program. Through her classes, she not only is working towards her degree but also earning certificates along the way that she can use in her future endeavors.
“That’s a really cool thing about the program. It’s not just your degree, you come out with other skills and certificates as well.” She has already earned a certificate in social media and will earn one in Google Analytics as well. Mills finds balance between the pursuit of her master’s degree and her full time job, allowing her to focus on her career during the week with enough time on the weekends to get her assignments turned in.
“I will say, in a completely online program, it gives everyone the best of both worlds because it’s allowing you to do your school on your time and it’s not taking time away from your job,” Mills said.
Establishing Meaningful Relationships
Although her degree is completely online, Mills has had the opportunity to collaborate on group projects with other students across the country, utilizing tools like Zoom to meet with fellow online students.
“I’ve worked with people across the country. I’ve actually made friends through the program that I’ve stayed in contact with in other states, like Idaho and Illinois.”
Advice for Future Online Students
When asked what advice she would give to prospective students looking to pursue an online degree at the University of Kentucky, Mills says, “Just go for it, and apply.”
Mills is on track to finish her degree in the spring of 2024, completing her goal of earning a higher degree and acquiring skills that will propel her in her career.
