Online Experience
What drew you to the online DBA program?
I was drawn to the online DBA program because I already had a strong connection to the university. I earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees there, so returning for my doctorate felt like a natural next step in my academic journey. I trusted the quality of education and the level of support I had experienced before. The flexibility of the online format also made it possible for me to continue my education while balancing my professional and personal responsibilities.
How did the online format fit into your lifestyle and responsibilities?
The online format fit my lifestyle in a way that made continuing my education possible, especially as a full-time professional. During this journey, I changed jobs more than once and even went through a challenging period in one of my previous roles. There were also a couple of times when I needed to pause my studies due to life and work responsibilities. What made the difference was the flexibility of the online program, which allowed me to step back when necessary and then return without losing sight of my long-term goal. Instead of giving up, I was able to adjust my pace and stay committed to finishing what I started.
What aspects of the online learning experience stood out to you the most? How was the dissertation?
What stood out to me the most was the sense of connection that was built right from the beginning. In our first class, we had a mentorship component that really helped those of us who were returning to school after many years. I had taken an 11-year break between my master’s degree and starting this doctoral program, so having that early support made a big difference in rebuilding my confidence as a student.
My cohort was also a major highlight. We formed strong bonds early in the program, and many of us have remained connected and supportive of each other throughout the journey. While a few people stepped away along the way, and I personally had to pause my studies at times which placed me into a new cohort, those original connections never went away. That sense of community, encouragement, and shared experience helped me stay motivated and reminded me that I wasn’t going through the process alone.
As for the dissertation, I am currently in the final stages of coursework and comprehensive exams, so I am preparing to fully enter that phase. Even getting to this point has already strengthened my research skills, critical thinking, and confidence in contributing meaningful work to my field.
Faculty Support
How would you describe the support and guidance you received from the faculty, especially during the dissertation process?
The support I’ve received throughout this program has been consistent and encouraging. Faculty members have provided thoughtful, constructive feedback that has helped me grow academically and think more critically. As I move through comprehensive exams and prepare to fully enter the dissertation phase, I’ve already felt supported in refining my research direction. My topic is ambitious and closely connected to current real-world issues, and I’ve been fortunate to find faculty who understand my vision and are willing to guide me through developing it into meaningful scholarly work. That level of academic encouragement has given me confidence as I approach the next phase of the journey.
Were there any specific professors or staff members who made a lasting impression on you?
Yes, the academic advisors and student support staff made a lasting impact on my experience. My counselor, in particular, checked in with me even during times when I had to step away from the program. That consistent outreach made me feel seen as a person, not just a student ID number. During a particularly challenging period, her encouragement and perspective helped me refocus and keep moving forward. Knowing there were people within the university who genuinely cared about my well-being as well as my academic success made a meaningful difference in my journey.
Program Impact
How has this program helped you grow personally and professionally?
This program has shaped me in ways that go far beyond academics. Professionally, it strengthened my analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to approach complex challenges with a strategic mindset. During the program, I navigated significant career challenges, including leading through a major workplace crisis in a public sector role. The knowledge and confidence I gained through my coursework helped me make difficult professional decisions, recognize my value, and advocate for opportunities that better aligned with my skills and long-term goals.
Personally, the program helped me find my voice. I became more confident speaking up, defending my ideas, and contributing at higher levels, no matter who is in the room. That growth in confidence and self-awareness has been just as meaningful as the academic knowledge I’ve gained.
What skills or knowledge have you gained that you’re excited to apply in your career?
I’ve developed stronger research, data analysis, and critical thinking skills that I now use to evaluate problems from multiple angles and design more effective solutions. The program also strengthened my leadership and collaboration skills. Even in challenging group projects, I learned how to work with strong personalities, build consensus, and stay focused on shared goals. Those experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone and helped me grow as both a leader and a team member.
I’ve also gained the confidence to explore new professional directions. My academic work encouraged me to connect my lived experiences with emerging economic and social trends, which led me to pursue work focused on supporting small-scale agricultural and homesteading entrepreneurs. I’m excited to apply what I’ve learned to help others build sustainable, resilient ventures.
How has pursuing your DBA impacted your career opportunities or goals?
Pursuing my DBA has expanded how I see my career and what I believe is possible. It gave me the clarity and confidence to step into roles that better reflect my expertise and value. I’ve become more intentional about seeking opportunities where I can analyze systems, solve complex problems, and make a broader impact. The program didn’t just prepare me for a title, it prepared me to think, lead, and contribute at a higher level.
Overall Experience
What would you say to someone considering enrolling in this program?
I would tell them to be prepared for hard work and tremendous personal growth. This program requires time, discipline, and focus. You will likely have to sacrifice some social time and learn how to manage your energy and priorities differently. It’s also important to keep an open mind, because you will be challenged to think in new ways and may even find your research interests evolving as you’re exposed to new perspectives and real-world applications.
You have to be willing to accept feedback, engage deeply with research, and dedicate consistent time to reading and writing. Having a strong support system matters too. Getting buy-in from the people who encourage you most can make a big difference, and building connections within your cohort is just as important. Your classmates understand the pressure, the time constraints, and the emotional ups and downs in a way others may not. Those connections can help carry you through the journey.
For anyone serious about advancing their career, stepping into leadership, or even changing professional directions, this program can be a powerful and rewarding experience.
If you could sum up your experience in one sentence, what would it be?
This journey has challenged me, stretched me, and ultimately helped me grow into a more confident, capable, and purpose-driven professional.
