Name: Janet Johnson
School: Grand Canyon University
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Applied Management
Tell us about your educational background.
I completed my cohort courses, receiving an A.S. from
Charter Oak State College and a BSAM from
Grand Canyon University (GCU).
Describe your most rewarding college experience(s).
The most rewarding experience thus far has been online classes. I love it! With a busy work schedule, tapping into the internet highway with online studies has helped me fulfill a personal goal of pursuing my education. Secondly, I’m so honored to be a GCU alum and to have studied through the
Colangelo College of Business.
What are your future plans?
This summer I plan to continue my studies at Grand Canyon University to obtain a master’s in public administration (MPA) with an emphasis in government and policy. GCU provides a wholesome atmosphere with assistance at each step of the way. I commend them for their leadership.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next 10 years?
I hope to attain personal growth, understand the dynamics of leadership, and accomplish something new I may have never dreamed of.
Who or what influenced you to go to school?
Education has always been important to me. In 2017, by chance, I received an email announcing a cohort program with SRPMIC and GCU. This was my ticket as a returning student; obtaining my paperwork came easily, as if it was meant to be. I feel I have come full circle. Throughout the years, I have devoted much of my time to my career with SRPMIC. Today, SRPMIC has provided the opportunity for me to fulfill what I started 37 years ago.
Did you face any obstacles while attending college/university? If so, how did you overcome them?
As I reflect back, the main obstacle was balancing work during our busy seasons and projects. This is why I love online classes. The process was so natural for me, because it provided the flexibility of completing research, reports and DQs at any time of the day or night, from 12:01 a.m. to 12 midnight. My main study hours were weekdays from 3 to 7 a.m. and on Sundays from 3 to 11:59 p.m. It takes a lot of discipline.
What advice would you give to people considering higher education?
Well, I never thought I would be stating this, as it was told to me by others older than I: “You are never too old to obtain your educational knowledge.”
Is there anyone you would like to thank?
My kids and grandkids, because they didn’t see me much. There are so many individuals who are to be thanked who have come across my path with encouragement and inspiring words. In addition, the SRPMIC, for providing the opportunity to pursue my education; Joyla Gates of the Higher Education program; Scott McIntosh, GCU counselor; the online instructors who taught me something new and inspiring; the online students whose sharing helped gain insight into each of our thoughts; and the 2017 SRPMIC/GCU Cohort students. With perseverance we can and will accomplish our educational goals.
Who are your parents and grandparents?
Parents: Barbara C. Johnson and the late Lloyd F. Johnson
Maternal Grandparents: Virginia Vohavi and Nallis Johnson
Paternal Grandparents: Jeanette Hendricks Johnson and Joseph Johnson
Maternal Great-Grandparents: Andrew and Lily Vohavi
This article was written by Deborah Stoneburner and originally printed in the June 6, 2019, issue of O'odham Action News. It is republished here with permission.
The Salt River Higher Education Program is proud to help support students like Janet Johnson reach their academic and professional dreams. For more information about financial aid, contact the Higher Education Program today at 480-362-2547 or email [email protected].
