Balancing Books and Blessings: My Journey as a 48-Year-Old Online Social Work Buckeye
When I first started my journey at Ohio State University about a year ago, I wrote about what it felt like to step into this new chapter. Now, looking back on my transition, I realize how important it is to share the reality of what it means to be a non-traditional student on campus today.
My path to OSU wasn’t the standard high school-to-college route. I am 48 years old, a wife, a mother, and a proud young grandmother. I am also a transfer student from Columbus State Community College, a social work major, and a fully online learner. Navigating a massive university like Ohio State under these circumstances brings a unique set of challenges, triumphs, and adjustments that differ greatly from the traditional campus experience.
My ultimate goal is to become a school social worker, helping the next generation navigate their own life challenges. I am moving closer to that dream every day, and this upcoming fall, I will be starting my official internship with Jewish Family Services to gain critical, hands-on experience in the field.
Even though my classes are online, I have found ways to truly embed myself in the university culture. I am a proud member of the co-ed honor fraternity, Phi Sigma Pi, through the Ohio State chapter. Balancing family, school, fraternity events, and preparing for an intensive community internship takes an immense amount of determination and time management.
I am sharing my story because transfer students, online learners, and older students with families make up a vital part of the OSU community, yet our experiences are not always highlighted. I want to shed light on what this transition is truly like, offer encouragement to others walking a similar path, and show that it is never too late to chase your purpose.
