Why a Doctorate

I want to share my academic journey, a path characterized by early struggles and a transformative commitment to education, culminating in my Doctorate in Education from Liberty University.

Early Academic Challenges

My journey in academics started on a rocky path. In high school, I was not the ideal student, barely passing. After joining the Air Force, I eventually took advantage of the tuition assistance they offered. However, I still only managed to muster the motivation for one class at a time, often taking semesters off, and my undergraduate years extended over six years, which was longer than typical. These years were a continuous struggle, where I grappled with finding direction and motivation.

Balancing Work and Study

The real test of my resilience came from balancing my demanding role in the U.S. Air Force with my academic pursuits. Long working hours were a staple of my military life, and adding academic responsibilities to this schedule was challenging. Staying on top of discussions, essays, and coursework required meticulous organization and unwavering dedication.

I had to develop stringent time management strategies. This meant creating detailed schedules, allocating specific hours for studying, and often sacrificing personal downtime to ensure I stayed on track. The discipline I learned in the military proved invaluable, helping me to remain focused and organized amidst a hectic schedule.

Finding a Rhythm in Chaos

As I progressed in my studies, I learned to find a rhythm in the chaos. I utilized every available moment, often reading course materials during breaks, writing essays late into the night, or sometimes very early in the morning, though sometimes this can be hard to distinguish. This rigorous routine was taxing but also taught me about endurance and the importance of prioritizing my goals.

The Turning Point

My journey took a positive turn when I was selected to teach at the Community College of the Air Force. This experience ignited my passion for education and led me to pursue a Master's in Information Technology. I started applying the same teaching principles I was imparting to my students to my studies, significantly improving my academic performance.

Why Pursue a Doctorate?

My decision to pursue a doctorate was fueled by a professional dedication to education and a personal one. At the time, my daughter was experiencing her own unique educational challenges. Witnessing her struggles, I felt a deep desire to be better equipped to support her. I believed that by deepening my understanding of educational leadership, I could contribute to the broader field of education and be a more effective guide and mentor to her.

It is worth it!

The doctoral journey was enriching, with my research on "The United States Air Force Pilot Diversity Dilemma" being a particularly fulfilling aspect. This allowed me to integrate my military experience with my academic pursuits, addressing significant issues in the field.

My journey to a doctorate is a story of transformation, perseverance, and the power of education to change lives. From a struggling student to a Doctor of Education, my path demonstrates that any challenge can be overcome with passion, hard work, and a clear purpose. At Russell Education Consulting LLC, I apply these lessons daily, aiming to empower others through education.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Embrace it, and let it guide you to your own path of success.