Shows
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsAdjusting to Learning in the Digital Age | Dear Professor with Duane VaughnAbout the Guest:Mr. Duane Vaughn is a senior industrial engineering student at Morgan State University, aiming to graduate in December. Hailing from Chicago, Duane expresses a strong inclination towards supply chain management within various industries, including amusement parks, clothing stores, and sports arenas. Besides his academic pursuits, Duane enjoys staying active and engaged in physical activities like visiting the gym and playing basketball.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of the Dear Professor series, host Dr. Kellie Alston engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Mr. Duane Vaughn, a senior at Morgan State...2024-05-3026 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsFrom Party Mode to Panic Mode: Racing Against the Clock for a Forgotten Homework Deadline | Remember the Time with Duane VaughnRemember the Time Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the "Dear professor series," viewers are offered a glimpse into the real-world challenges and triumphs of online learning through a candid narrative delivered by Mr. Duane Vaughn. His story exemplifies the lived experiences of many online students, balancing coursework with personal life.Duane recounts a particularly tense evening that encapsulates the all-too-familiar scenario of a looming deadline against the backdrop of social engagement. As the clock ticks perilously close to the midnight submission deadline, Duane's compelling account of the scramble to complete an online assignment...2024-05-2703 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsBreaking Barriers: Empowering Women in the Financial Markets | Dear Professor with Thomasina TafurAbout the Guest:On today's episode, Dr. Kellie Alston, an esteemed eLearning strategist with extensive experience in online teaching, warmly hosts Ms. Thomasina Tafur, a multifaceted professional and a current PhD student at Pepperdine University. Thomasina's academic journey includes an undergraduate degree in English Literature and an MBA in International Business. She boasts a substantial 20-year career at FedEx, developing robust leadership skills, and has had the unique experience of teaching at Princess Nora University in Saudi Arabia. Currently, she's delving into the world of equity and options trading and is investigating the barriers to women's participation...2024-05-2346 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsWhat I Learned from a Technology Glitch | Remember the Time with Thomasina TafurRemember the Time Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the Dear Professor series, listeners join Dr. Kellie Alston and guest Ms. Thomasina Tafur to delve into the dynamic world of online learning. This special segment entitled "Remember the Time" offers a relatable glimpse into the triumphs and tribulations faced by virtual learners, through Thomasina's personal narrative. The episode promises to enthrall readers with an inside look at the often unpredictable nature of online courses.Thomasina recounts a particularly memorable day from her online PhD program, where she faced unexpected technical difficulties during a crucial...2024-05-2205 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Turning Point: How One Unexpected Suggestion Took Me in a New Direction | Dear Professor with Dr. Mecca TerryAbout the Guest:Dr. Mecca Terry is an academic professional with a distinguished background in criminal justice and higher education. With a bachelor’s degree in law and society, a minor in sociology, and two master's degrees — one in criminal justice and another in Human Services — Dr. Terry’s educational journey is quite impressive. She completed her higher education achievements with a PhD in Criminal Justice. Professionally, Dr. Terry is a former probation officer who made a significant career shift into higher education, where she now serves as a lecturer teaching sociology and criminal justice courses.Episod...2024-05-1937 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe LMS Dilemma | Remember the Time with Dr. Mecca TerryGuest: Dr. Mecca TerryWebsite: https://www.drmeccakterry.comRemember the Time Summary:In this insightful segment of the Dear Professor series titled Remember the Time, we step into the experiences of educators adapting to technological changes within virtual classrooms. Host Dr. Kellie Alston invites Dr. Mecca Terry to share an impactful story reflecting their immersion in online education's evolving landscape. Their conversation sheds light on the transition from Blackboard to Canvas, revealing the ripples such a change invokes.The episode emphasizes the resistance to change and the necessity...2024-05-1304 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsNavigating the Frightening Freedom of Learning Online | Dear Professor with Teni OgunsanAbout the Guest:Ms. Teni Ogunsan is an accomplished bioinformatics graduate from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. At the time of the podcast, she is located in Minnesota at the Mayo Clinic, where she serves as a research coordinator. Teni is preparing for an exciting transition as she gears up to embark on her journey to medical school in Tennessee. With a deep-seated passion for the sciences fostered by both of her parents - her mother a physician and her father a software engineer - Teni is also cognizant of health disparities, especially in maternal health...2024-05-0944 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsSurviving the Proctored Exam Terror | Remember the Time with Teni OgunsanRemember the Time Summary:In this captivating episode of the "Dear Professor" series, Ms. Teni Ogunsan candidly recounts one of her most nerve-wracking online course experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. This intimate dialogue with Dr. Kellie Alston uncovers the emotional rollercoaster that comes with navigating technology-driven education—inviting listeners to empathize with the challenges of modern learning environments.Ms. Ogunsan details the daunting expectations set by a strictly proctored biochemistry final, its requisite surveillance adding an extra layer of stress to the exam. Amid an already heightened state of anxiety, a technical issue compounds the te...2024-05-0805 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsFlexibility is Chief: How Online Learning Helped Me Reach My Goal | Dear Professor with Dr. Sheniqua JohnsonAbout the Guest:Dr. Sheniqua Johnson, also known as Sheniqua Inspires, is a multifaceted professional who has made substantial strides in various fields. With over 20 years of experience in healthcare, she started her career as a registered nurse and eventually branched out into entrepreneurship. Dr. Johnson earned a Master of Science in Nursing and Healthcare Education online and is the CEO and owner of A Better You, where she coaches and supports multitasking women in prioritizing their well-being. Additionally, she runs Stronger through Faith Media, a media company that assists individuals in storytelling and gaining media exposure...2024-04-0451 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsHow I Experienced Fulfillment in Arizona | Remember the Time with Dr. Sheniqua JohnsonRemember the Time Summary:In this deeply moving and inspiring installment of the Dear Professor series, we are introduced to Dr. Sheniqua Johnson—a masterful storyteller who compels listeners with her narrative of perseverance and determination. As the series aims to give voice to the experiences of online students, Dr. Johnson recounts the rollercoaster ride of pursuing her education amidst trying personal circumstances.Dr. Johnson shares the trials she faced while going back to graduate school during a difficult divorce and balancing increased work hours, legal battles, and familial responsibilities. These experiences highlight themes such as...2024-04-0204 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsEffective Ways to Empower Students Online | Dear Professor with Brittany WhiteAbout the Guest:Ms. Brittany White is an academic professional specializing in literacy and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in the field. With dedication and passion, Brittany runs a reading clinic on her campus, providing tutoring services for elementary school students. Furthermore, she extends her expertise to the Boys and Girls Club, where she hosts reading camps. Brittany maintains a love for outdoor activities, especially in her sunny home state of Texas.Episode Summary:In a dynamic exchange of insights, Dr. Kellie Alston hosts the "Dear Professor Series," fostering a bridge between...2024-03-2827 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Day I Realized I Had Nothing More to Say | Remember the Time with Brittany WhiteRemember the Time Summary:In the latest captivating episode of the "Dear Professor" series, our host Dr. Kellie Alston invites Brittany White, an online college student, to engage in a candid and relatable discussion. This segment, titled "Remember the Time," provides an intimate look at the trials and triumphs of pursuing education in a virtual space. Listeners are offered a rare glimpse into a student's personal story that reaches beyond the confines of structured learning.Brittany humorously and earnestly recalls a particularly overwhelming week at the end of a semester when the course required interactions...2024-03-2502 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Truth About What I Need to Thrive Online | Dear Professor with Aaryn LewisAbout the Guest:Mr. Aaryn Lewis is a first-year student at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) and a recent graduate of Weaver Academy, a performing arts high school. Before attending UNCG, he took online courses at Guilford Technical Community College. As a vocal student and singer, Aaryn has shown a strong passion for the arts. He shares fresh perspectives drawn from his recent transition from high school to college and his experience with online learning that began during the pandemic.Episode Summary:In this enlightening episode of "Dear Professor," Dr...2024-03-2131 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsHow Peppermints, Stress Balls, and Jumping Jacks Could Not Change My Fate | Remember the Time with Aaryn LewisRemember the Time Summary:In this insightful episode of the "Dear Professor" series, Dr. Kellie Alston engages with online college student Aaryn Lewis in a candid conversation about the trials and tribulations of remote learning. This segment, fondly termed "Remember the Time," delves into the personal academic experiences of students like Aaryn, who share their meaningful and sometimes humorous stories from the digital classroom.Aaryn Lewis brings to life a relatable scenario many online learners face: the struggle to juggle personal responsibilities with academic commitments. In a retelling that is equal parts engaging and educational...2024-03-1906 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsMy Remarkable Online Journey as a Doctoral Student and a Professor | Dear Professor with Dr. Sabrina HintonAbout the Guest:Dr. Sabrina Hinton, an alumnus of Winston-Salem State University and a doctoral graduate from Grand Canyon University, specializes in education organizational leadership. As a proud mother and wife, Dr. Hinton advocates passionately for early learners, families, and teachers. She currently serves as the director of North Point Academy located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, where innovative teaching methods and the academic advancement of preschool-aged children are the primary focus. Dr. Hinton also serves the Winston-Salem State University College of Education as a professor and university supervisor for the early childhood education program.Episode...2024-03-0752 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Virtual Classroom is Where I Want to Be | Dear Professor with Mikaila WrightAbout the Guest:Ms. Mikaila Wright is a passionate early childhood educator currently teaching pre-K in Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools. At 26 years old, she boasts a robust nine-year history of online learning, having transitioned from community college to double majoring at North Carolina Central University. Mikaila is currently furthering her education with a graduate degree in Early Childhood Interventions and Family Support. Aside from her professional pursuits, Mikaila enjoys cooking, particularly soul food, and considers shopping to be one of her favorite pastimes.Episode Summary:In this enriching installment of the Dear Professor...2024-02-2925 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Fascinating Life of a Former Nontraditional College Student | Dear Professor with Jessica GlassAbout the Guest:Jessica Glass is a dynamic and versatile professional who has made a name for herself both as an educator and a model. With over nine years of experience working with children, Jessica's passion for teaching is evident, and her dedication was further solidified by completing her degree in early childhood education from North Carolina Central University in 2022. Alongside her career in education, Jessica has also pursued modeling, participating in high-profile events such as New York Fashion Week and Orlando Swim Week. At 29, she is a mother to a six-year-old daughter and enjoys modeling, spending...2024-02-1537 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsAnswering the Clarion Call to Lead | Dear Professor with Shanita DavisAbout the Guest:Ms. Shanita Davis is a dedicated educator with a rich teaching background that spans over 12 years, impacting early childhood education, kindergarten, and first grade. An alumna of North Carolina Central University with a degree in Family Consumer Science, Shanita holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Shaw University. As a testament to her commitment to leadership in education, she has been accepted into the Master's School Administration program at ECU (Eastern Carolina University), starting her journey to expand her role beyond the classroom.Episode Summary:In this in...2024-02-0835 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Practical and Powerful Gift of Distance Learning | Dear Professor with Toni JeterAbout The Guest:Mrs. Toni Jeter is a 39-year-old mother of two and has been married for 20 years. She has been taking online courses since 2006 and has obtained her early childhood certification and bachelor's degree through online programs. Mrs. Jeter is passionate about education and strives to be her true, authentic self in all aspects of her life.Summary:In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Mrs. Toni Jeter, an online student with extensive experience in taking online courses. Mrs. Jeter shares her insights and experiences...2024-02-0140 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsThe Awakening of How I Love to Learn Online | Dear Professor with Heather HallAbout The Guest: Heather Hall is an artist, an advocate for the neurodivergent community, and a plant enthusiast. She has worked in public schools for six years in exceptional children's departments and now owns her own business as an educational consultant called Triangle Education Advocacy.Summary: In this episode, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Heather Hall, an artist and advocate for the neurodivergent community. Heather shares her experiences as an online student and discusses the positive and negative aspects of online learning. She emphasizes the importance of examples, multimedia presentations, and predictable structures in online courses. Heather also...2023-12-2836 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsIt's the Challenge for Me! | Dear Professor with Rosamaria VaronaAbout The Guest: Rosamaria Varona is a passionate and dedicated educator who graduated top of her class in early childhood education. She has experience teaching preschool, fourth, and fifth grade and is known for incorporating art and self-expression into her lessons.Summary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Rosamaria Varona, an online student and teacher. Rosamaria shares her experiences as an online student and discusses the rewards and challenges of teaching. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating creativity into the classroom and the need for professors to inspire and push students...2023-12-2140 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsNow, I See What You Saw in Me | Dear Professor with Christyl BenfordAbout The Guest: Christyl Benford is a multifaceted entrepreneur, author, and award-winning singer and songwriter. She is the founder of Zeely Creative, a brand studio that helps service-based business owners build unforgettable brands and websites. Christyl is also a mentor and mindset coach, helping aspiring and new entrepreneurs transition into entrepreneurship and implement strategic actions to launch their businesses.Christyl's Business: Home - Zeely CreativeAffirmation Cards: 30 Day Affirming Power Affirmation Cards for ChristiansSummary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Christyl Benford, an online student and...2023-12-1643 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsNow, I See What You Saw in Me | Dear Professor with Christyl BenfordAbout The Guest: Christyl Benford is a multifaceted entrepreneur, author, and award-winning singer and songwriter. She is the founder of Zealey Creative, a brand studio that helps service-based business owners build unforgettable brands and websites. Christyl is also a mentor and mindset coach, helping aspiring and new entrepreneurs transition into entrepreneurship and implement strategic actions to launch their businesses.Summary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Christyl Benford, an online student and successful entrepreneur. Christyl shares her experiences as an online student, highlighting the importance of clear instructions, quick response turnarounds...2023-12-1443 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsDeveloping Skills That Apply to the Real World | Dear Professor with Keisha GrantAbout The Guest: Keisha Grant is a school readiness coach for Head Start under the Families and Communities Rising platform. She has over ten years of experience in the field of early education, with eight of those years as a pre-K teacher. Keisha is also actively seeking an online master's program and is a member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated.Summary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Keisha Grant, an online student and school readiness coach. Keisha shares her experience as an online student and discusses the wonderful and not-so-wonderful...2023-12-0740 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsTo Be Seen and Understood | Dear Professor with Larae ChristieAbout The Guest:Larae Christie is a senior at North Carolina Central University, majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Child Development. She is also an aspiring artist, model, traveler, and influencer on Instagram. Larae creates fashion and lifestyle content, including "get ready with me" videos and travel vlogs. She recently landed a job as a flight attendant, which has sparked a new passion for her. Larae is dedicated to helping students grow and reach their goals.Summary:In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Larae...2023-11-3027 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsEverything Boils Down to Communication | Dear Professor with Heather LeeAbout The Guest:Heather Lee is an online student pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. She is also a training and curriculum specialist at a child development center. Heather is passionate about gardening and enjoys traveling with her husband.Summary:In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Heather Lee, an online student pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. Heather shares her experiences as an online student and discusses her love for gardening and her career goals in the child development field. She rates her overall experience...2023-11-2327 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsPursuing A Doctorate Can Be Brutal | Dear Professor with Kye HowardAbout The Guest: Kye Howard is a 47-year-old doctoral student pursuing her Ed.D. in organizational leadership and organizational development. She has worked in law enforcement for 23 years and is a single mother to an eight-year-old. Kye is an avid fitness kickboxer, roller skater, and science fiction buff. She aspires to one day narrate a TEDx talk.Summary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Kye Howard, an online doctoral student. Kye shares her experiences as an online student and discusses the importance of face-to-face communication with professors. She also highlights the...2023-11-1644 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsOnline Courses Caused Me to Grow | Dear Professor with Elsie BarnesAbout The Guest:Ms. Elsie Barnes is a 57-year-old former online student from Conway, North Carolina.She has two children and a fiance, and she enjoys planting flowers, playing basketball, shopping, and spending time with her family.Elsie worked as a teacher assistant before pursuing her degree in birth to kindergarten from North Carolina Central University, which she completed online.Summary: Elsie Barnes, a 2021 graduate of North Carolina Central University, shares her experiences and insights on taking courses online. She discusses her background, including her love for teaching and her journey to obtaining her degree. Elsie rates...2023-11-0925 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsPlease, Keep It Engaging! | Dear Professor with Dr. Luis ZamarripaAbout The Guest: Dr. Luis Zamarripa is an HR professional with extensive experience in online learning. He pursued his PhD online and has a passion for researching and learning. Dr. Zamarripa is a veteran, a husband, and a father of four. He is known for his positive energy and love for knowledge.Summary: Dr. Luis Zamarripa shares his experiences as an online student and provides insights into the pros and cons of pursuing a terminal degree online. He emphasizes the importance of relevant and applicable content, as well as engaging activities in online courses. Dr. Zamarripa also discusses the...2023-11-0230 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsYou Taught Me Far Beyond the Content | Dear Professor with Tapresha CummingsAbout The Guest: Tapresha Cummings is a 34-year-old African American woman from a small town in eastern North Carolina. She is a single parent and an early childhood education major. Tapresha has always wanted to be a teacher and is passionate about lifelong learning.Summary: Tapresha Cummings shares her experiences as an online student and the importance of having a professor who cares. She discusses her initial struggles with online courses and the lack of connection she felt with some professors. However, she found a supportive and caring professor in Dr. Kellie Alston, who made her feel...2023-10-2642 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsFeels Like I'm Really Teaching Myself | Dear Professor with Takima Hoy-HinesAbout The Guest:Takima Hoy-Hines is a nontraditional student pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. She is passionate about owning her own childcare facility in the future.Summary: In this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Takima Hoy-Hines, an online student pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education. Takima shares her experiences as an online student, highlighting both the positive and negative aspects. She emphasizes the importance of clear communication from professors, timely feedback, and specific instructions for assignments. Takima also discusses the challenges of group work in an online...2023-10-2026 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsEducation Keeps Me Going | Dear Professor with Freida B. WestonAbout The GuestMs. Freida Weston is a 68-year-old student who has defied age barriers and pursued higher education. She obtained two bachelor's degrees--one in Behavioral and Social Science and in Child Development Studies. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in human development and Family Studies at North Carolina Central University. Ms. Freida is a testament to the fact that it is never too late to continue learning and achieving academic goals.SummaryIn this episode of the Dear Professor series, Dr. Kellie Alston interviews Ms. Freida Weston, a 68-year-old student wh...2023-10-1919 min
Dear Professor: Where College Students Who Take Courses Online Speak Their MindsIf Only You Knew What I've Been Through | Dear Professor with Leighana Dail Dr. Kellie Alston hosts the "Dear Professor" series, where college students share their experiences and opinions about online learning. In this episode, Dr. Alston interviews Leighana Dail, a 25-year-old online student pursuing a Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education. Leighana discusses her love for education, the importance of communication between instructors and students, the need for passionate instructors, and her pet peeves, including a lack of communication and working with unmotivated students. She also shares a heartfelt message to one of her professors, expressing gratitude for her guidance and encouragement.About The Guest: Leighana Dail is a 25-year-old...2023-10-1231 min