FOR RELEASE: Thursday, April 19, 2007
A Testimonial by Margie R. Blake
Margie R. Blake, right, will receive her bachelor's degree from the University of Arkansas on May 12. She and her classmate, Nancy Heard, were among more than 150 students in the human resource development program who attended the spring semester cohort dinner March 30 at the Clarion Inn in Fayetteville.
I found out about the HRD Program from a very good friend Addie Chandler. She told me about the program when she was in it and tried to persuade me to enroll. However, at the time it was too late for me to enroll. I had to wait for the upcoming year. I was anticipating the new year while Addie kept on encouraging me to continue trying. For a while I told myself that I can't go back to school. Addie insisted that I return to school. Finally, I gained courage to enroll and get back on track.
I graduated from C.V. White High School in Lakeview, Ark. I attended Phillips County Community College in Helena, Ark., and received an AA Degree in Computer Science. Next, I attended the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff majoring in Business Administration, but I did not complete my studies. However, my mother was involved in a critical car accident and I returned home to assist my mother during her time of need.
Presently, I am enrolled at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, from which I will receive my B.S.E. degree in Spring 2007. Afterwards, I wish to enroll in the master's program at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville.
My total challenge was returning to school and accepting school responsibilities as well as family and work. I am a devoted wife and mother. I work full time and attend school. I arrive home between 5:00 and 5:30 p.m. to be a mother and wife. The homework can be quite hectic. I had to set a schedule to maintain a good standing for my classes. I also had to give up some weekends for classes, homework and other necessities.
My life wasn't really affected. I just had to have a set schedule, encouragement from my family, and assistance from family and friends. My husband (Robert) and son (Jeremy) have supported me to the fullest as well as appreciated my effort. My son has learned that college is beneficial to success in this society. Therefore, he is insisting on attending the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. I thank them for their love and support.
The program itself had made a big difference in me. I am excited to attain my bachelor's degree, finally finishing a long term goal. During the course of my classes, I have had negative remarks thrown towards me from associates and friends. I have become a better speaker due to presentations. I have become a more responsible student as compared to my college years at UAPB. Lastly, I have developed more business as well as organizational skills. During my two year study, I have met many different people and have shared my ideas with them. I notice that I'm a piece of the puzzle in Cohort 10.
I took this role of helping others succeed without notice. I persuaded my older sister, a dear friend, and colleagues to enroll. They are currently attending school. I informed them that there were classes online as well as Saturday classes. I told them that if I could do it, surely they can. I encouraged them to attend as soon as possible. I stated that the later you wait, the harder it will be. One reason I persuaded others to attend is because I like seeing others succeed with me.
Currently, I work for the Department of Health and Human Services as a Document Examiner II. My job entitles me to perform duties for many different case workers and deal with many personalities. My plans will drastically change due to seeking a job with higher salary and full benefits. I would like a job where I could arrive at work with a smile and perform my duties at the maximum of my capacity.
I would inform those who are interested that there is a lot to learn in the HRD Program. I have known successful people who have attained a degree through this program. It is necessary for them to know that there are excellent instructors who provide assistance in every way. Phil Gerke is very dependable and trustworthy.
It is a wonderful program to be involved in. The university should advertise the HRD Program more. There are many people looking for a program such as this. I'm thankful for my experience with the HRD Cohort 10, and I look forward to many years of success to come for me and my fellow classmates.
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Contact:
Heidi Stambuck, director of communications
College of Education and Health Professions
(479) 575-3138, stambuck@uark.edu