ADEP Connection

Lisandra was chosen as student of the term, Fall 2011, by Professor Michael MacCambridge.

Since Lisandra was nominated for Student of the Term, we decided to ask her a few questions on why she chose ADEP.

WHAT WERE THE FACTORS THAT MADE YOU CHOOSE CLU’S ADEP PROGRAM?

My husband first told me about ADEP a few years ago when he was teaching in the program. It sounded like a program that would fit me well. I was concerned about returning to school after so long and not having peers that shared my life experience. In addition, I needed a program that would accommodate my busy life as a mother. ADEP feels as if it were designed for me. I appreciate the professors who streamline their assignments for the busy, professional adults that we are.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE ADEP CLASS SO FAR AND WHY?

My favorite ADEP class has been Rel. 325 (Christian Ethics) taught by Rev. Rustin Comer. In this course, Prof. Comer was able to assimilate the history of ethics with modern day applications into our daily life. Class discussions and assignments were designed to engage us in a deconstructive process to understand how our core values were developed and how that influences our ethical decision making in our daily lives. The class opened my eyes to global issues and how ethics are approached from a Christian perspective. It was a truly engaging class and I found it to be helpful and meaningful in all aspects.

WHAT ARE YOUR GOALS AND WHAT ROLE DOES YOUR ADEP EDUCATION PLAY IN THEM?

My goal is to become a credentialed elementary school teacher and then obtain a Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology. Through CLU, ADEP is able to provide me the course work necessary to achieve my goals while focusing on raising my family. Before I found ADEP, I thought that I would have to wait until my children were older before I could pursue my professional goals. I feel fortunate to be able to “have my cake and eat it too!”

HOW ARE YOU ABLE TO BALANCE SCHOOL, WORK AND EVERYTHING ELSE IN YOUR LIFE?

I am fortunate to have a very supportive husband and extended family to help me with the children if I need to be on campus for class or take time to study. In addition to reaching out for help, I find that being very organized helps as well. I plan time for myself to get my work done during the week. Knowing that the time is set aside prevents unnecessary anxiety about how or when I will get the work done. I found it particularly challenging to keep up with everything over the holidays and recognized that I needed to let some things go. My children do a few more chores, I am using the crock pot more, and am learning to let my house be a bit messier. One of the greatest discoveries has been to plan out the entire week’s meals and go shopping once. I know exactly what I am going to make from day to day and everyone stays fed and happy!

WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU GIVE TO YOUR FELLOW ADEP STUDENTS ABOUT MAKING ADEP WORK FOR THEM?

Everyone’s situations are a little different so it’s important to recognize what is and isn’t working for you. Talk to other ADEP students and get suggestions on how to conquer some challenges. I like to refer to what Dr. Phil says, “If it ain’t working for you, change it!” Chances are that someone in ADEP has faced a similar challenge and can offer support.

Thank you Lisandra for taking the time to answer these questions!