Returning Women Spotlight: Carrie Cleveland

Tue, 02 Sep 2014 10:03:20 -0400

The Women's Center exists to assist all women in achieving their full potential in education, career, and personal life through academic and intellectual growth, professional development, and personal empowerment. One of the ways we work to achieve this mission is in our support services and programs for Returning Women (undergraduate students over the age of 25). The Women's Center supports these students through a peer mentoring program, targeted events and forums, and scholarship opportunities. If you’re interested in learning more about the Returning Women’s meetings or scholarships, contact us at womens.center@umbc.edu.

Who are you?

Carrie Cleveland. Social Work major, mother of three daughters, ages 9, 6, and 2.

What benefits have you experienced as a Newcombe Scholar?

I've found a community at UMBC. Being part of an amazing group of women (as a member of the Returning Women Scholars) who have such different life experiences has opened my eyes to the unique set of challenges that we all face as students. It also has made me want to share those challenges with others and make sure that we are represented on campus as well.

What do you wish traditional students knew about being a non-traditional student?

We are here for the same reason you are -- to learn. Our path may have been different (I usually say I took the long and windy road) but we want the same thing.

What do you wish professors and the university knew about being a non-traditional student?

Just because I may be older than you does not mean that I don't see value in your teaching. I appreciate you knowledge and wisdom. Also, I may miss class because I have a sick kid who can't be left in daycare or with a sitter. Believe me, I want to be in class learning but sometimes it is just not possible.

What is one piece of advice you would offer to new non-traditional students at UMBC?

Jump in! Talk to everyone. Join things. Find your people! My professors have always appreciated my participation in class, even if it's different than a younger student's may be. When I was looking to get involved on campus, I spoke to one of my teachers, Dr. David Hoffman, who understood my circumstances, but knew my passion too. He helped me find the right group of people to get involved with, which has made me love my time at UMBC even more.