Megan Poole

MEGAN POOLE

by Caitlin Hofen

"I'm a 41-year-old mom of two teenagers, so it seemed like the right time to go back," said Megan Poole, an English major.

As a non-traditional student, Poole primarily attends classes via interactive video on Northwestern's Woodward campus.

"I'm in my sixth semester and I take a couple of classes at a time," Poole said. "I picked Northwestern because it was in Woodward and easier for me to attend."

Poole first went to college after graduating from high school, but found it wasn't for her at the time.

"I chose to return to college because I wanted to show my kids it's better to finish your schooling while you're young, but also you're never too old to go back and do what you want to do," Poole said. "I love English and I believe it's important to be wellspoken. I've always been interested in reading and language so English seemed like a natural fit.

Before returning to college, Poole had some reservations about taking the leap.

"It's a whole different mindset going back at this age. I'm here to get my degree and that's all I'm focusing on. I'm a much better student this time around, which shocked me because I was never a great student when I was younger. Having years of life experience under my belt makes a big difference."

"I had to get over my fear of going back after 20 years," Poole said. "College is completely different from when I went the first time and it was scary. I had been talking about going back for about 10 years but always put it off. I had to make myself do it.

Poole holds a special role in her classes not many students have.

"The kids are my peers in school; but on the Woodward campus, I'm everyone's mom." Poole said. "I'm taking the notes and making copies for everybody. I explain the concepts we're learning if someone doesn't get it.

"So much schoolwork is done electronically now and that was a huge change for me. Computers weren't utilized as much when I was younger. We didn't have online databases. We had the library and that was it. When I'm struggling with something to do with technology, the younger students will help me. I enjoy getting to have these relationships with them.”

Taking the steps to complete her education has given Poole a confidence she didn't have before.

"Having failed at college when I was younger, then coming back and being successful has made me realize I can do this," Poole said. "I think this was the right time for me to start again because of my age and maturity. I've definitely gained a boost in confidence."

Poole is unsure of what she wants to do with her degree, but that isn't stopping her from working toward her goal.

"I believe I want to possibly go into editing work," Poole said. "I'm not real sure what I want to do, but I know I need to finish my degree for myself. I need to prove to myself that I can do it.

"My goal is to graduate before my 15-year-old graduates from high school. I want to graduate and feel that sense of accomplishment. I'm so thankful my husband, Brian, supported and encouraged me to go back when I did. I couldn’t do it without my family.”