Only July 2, 2018 I had the great opportunity to achieve one of my educational goals. I began my journey towards my doctoral degree many years ago. I completed all of the required coursework in a breeze. I then began the writing process and found myself encountering many roadblocks. My committee chair was changed I think 4-5 times due to University changes. This was very difficult because everyone had different standards and the feedback was very different. Even after many semesters of hard work, I had to end up changing my topic completely.

Other life events happened throughout this process and I simply needed a break from it all. That break probably ended up being longer than it needed to be, but I finally managed to get back started. I was a little more motivated this time around because my original chair had returned to the University and was back leading my committee….WHEW! What a blessing!! With her guidance the process was rolling and I was on the road to completion. I had family and friends encouraging me as well. I was beginning to see the light after the submission of all 5 chapters!! When I heard those great words “your dissertation manuscript has been approved and you may prepare for your oral defense” I was elated.

July 2, 2018, I defended my dissertation and became Dr. Christy Powell Shepard! A true blessing! Goal achieved!

Next Step:TBD

If this is a goal of yours, you can do it. Setbacks are just steps and preparation for comebacks. Roadblocks are possible, but you can make it through them.