Degree opened up new horizons
Woman left 'comfort zone' for schooling
Chris Lyles
Age: 48
Occupation: Certified administrative professional
Where did you receive your education?
Ballard High School, Huxley, Iowa; Clarendon College; International Association of Administrative Professionals
How has your education played a role in your life today?
My continuous education opens my eyes to things that are new - different ways to do things, new technology, new friends.
What was your greatest educational challenge and how did you overcome it?
Deciding to further my education was probably the biggest challenge, and then actually following through with it. I have learned a great deal in every position I have held.
What is the value of your education?
My education has pushed me out of my comfort zone. I am involved in more projects than I ever thought I would be. And I'm enjoying it thoroughly.
What would you say to someone who's undecided about continuing their education?
What's stopping you? What is the greatest hurdle or hardship you can imagine that is stopping you? Face it, then conquer it.
When did you make education a priority?
When I decided I wanted to have the opportunity to work in a progressive environment while still having customer contact.
What made you realize the importance of education in your life?
When I first decided to further my education, my husband and I were living in a small Panhandle community. The community environment is something I am glad to have experienced. But the employment opportunities were very limited.
Did you ever think about quitting? What made you keep going?
I may have. That has been a few years ago. But I didn't quit. I finished my degree at Clarendon College, and continue to gain professional lessons, through my employer as well as IAAP. While we can be our own biggest critic, we can also be, and should be, our own most vocal advocate.
