Colorado Tech Online Students and Alumni
Meet Doris Bonaparte
Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Business Management
"Education is the key to building a better community," says Doris Bonaparte. "I want to learn as much as I can so I can give it back to my community."
Doris spent three years in the US Army before earning a Bachelor's degree and accepting a position with the South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS). Throughout 16 years with the DSS in a position that involved early screening of clients, Doris had set her sights on a promotion. "Earning a Master's degree increased my chances of being promoted in the civilian sector, just as it can and does in the military." Doris also knew that attending classes in a traditional setting would be difficult, if not impossible, as a single working mother.
Doris began to look into online degree programs after contacting several universities and chose Colorado Technical University for several reasons. "The University has a solid reputation as a ground campus, the curriculum is excellent and it is accredited." Colorado Technical University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (for more information, visit the NCA Higher Learning Commission web site). "When I contacted Colorado Tech Online, the Admissions Advisors were extremely knowledgeable, helpful and inspiring. They helped me believe I could succeed in an online university setting. I knew I was choosing the right university for me."
Doris enrolled in the Master of Science in Management degree program with a concentration in Business Management. Doris had not taken any classes for 16 years and was somewhat apprehensive when she began her courses through Colorado Tech Online. "I hadn't taken a college level course since 1989 and had never before studied in an online setting. The Virtual Campus was stunning, completely new to me. I knew I had a lot to learn, but suddenly it was exciting – more exciting than ever and I learned a lot."
Doris quickly adjusted to online learning. "I adjusted to the schedule rather quickly. I was enthused because my courses are extremely relevant to my profession. Learning more about technology and newer office applications is exciting. I met a lot of great people through my courses, instructors and peers, who were always there to help. The written work and PowerPoint presentations that are required to complete assignments helped me become more confident with public speaking and helped me improve my communications skills. I learned that discipline, time management, analysis of thought processes and teamwork are just as important as knowing the guidelines, regulations and business processes of my organization."
Doris feels that the soft skills and personal lessons she learned through Colorado Tech Online may have helped her get over yet another hurdle. "Just before completing my Master's program, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and had to undergo two surgeries. My instructors at Colorado Tech Online worked with me and helped me earn my degree despite those circumstances. Although I had to take sick leave from my job, I was able to complete my degree program. After recovering from surgery, I resumed my career and earned the promotion that I had set my sights on before continuing my education. I am now in the position that I have aspired to be in for 16 years!"
As a Human Services Specialist II, Doris is in a position to use what she learned through Colorado Tech Online to help others in her community. She is responsible for arranging education, job training and transportation for clients in order to help them make the transition from relying on federal and/or state benefits to economic self-reliance. "I try to give what I learned back to my community. I help clients by offering them access to and directing them to learn the skills they need to build better lives. For some of my clients, the difference between a better life and a life on the streets is as little as a few vocational skills. I am now in a position where I can use the expertise and skills I acquired in government service, combined with the organizational and project management knowledge I learned in my Master's degree program, to better serve my clients and my community."
Doris has a few long term goals as well. "I have nothing but high expectations for myself from now on. My goal is to work the federal level in and reach out to as many people as possible. Thank you, Colorado Tech Online, for giving me the knowledge and ability to do that."
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