Commencement is a special time for those receiving a college degree. It is hard to imagine it meant more to anyone that Jannell Manuel.
Manuel, a mother of four from Opelousas, was among 820 Northwestern State University graduates who received her degree Friday. Manuel, who graduated with a degree in general studies with a concentration in social sciences, was one of 32 who earned her degree online through the Center for Adult Learning in Louisiana (CALL) Program.
The CALL program is designed for the adult student to adapt to specific interests, backgrounds, time limitations, and ultimate career goals. It is especially appropriate for mature adults with a clear focus and desire to pursue a distinct course of study based upon educational and work experiences.
“Other than the days I had my children, this is the happiest day of my life. My husband and four children are here cheering for me,” said Manuel. “This is like a dream to me. Two years ago, I never thought I would be here. I started 13 years ago and between a divorce and having kids, school came to a halt. Without a degree, I didn’t feel complete.”
For the past two years, Manuel kept up a demanding class schedule with 15-18 hours a semester and has made the Dean’s List with a grade point average of over 3.5.
“Taking a class online is more time consuming, but is beneficial when you have kids,” said Manuel.
Now that she has graduated, Manuel plans to take the Law School Admissions Test and either attend law school or graduate school at NSU. She is also encouraging her husband and co-workers to get a college degree online.
“This has really lifted my self-esteem,” she said “I can’t help but boast about the program to people at work.”
Cindy Simmons has encouraged her daughter to go to college and earn a degree. Simmons started college 15 years ago, but couldn’t finish as she was working and raising a family.
“I realized I couldn’t teach my daughter to do something when I couldn’t do it myself,” said Simmons.
For the past five years, Simmons decided to set a good example for her children. Because of family and work demands, online classes were perfect from Simmons, who lives in Many.
“I loved taking online classes,” said Simmons, who works for Sabine State Bank. “I was able to work at my own pace. The CALL Program helped me set up my schedule to graduate as soon as possible. The classes were great. In an online class, there is more discussion and I found myself more involved.”
Manuel said the CALL Program staff made getting a degree much easier for her.
“The people in the CALL Program treated me like family,” said Manuel.
For more information on the CALL Program, go to http://call.nsula.edu or www.yourcallla.org.
