Life doesn’t always follow a linear path, and my journey to the classroom is proof of that. As a veteran, I traded the structure and pace of military service for the intellectual rigor of university life—a transition that is as challenging as it is rewarding.

Being a non-traditional student means bringing a different perspective to the table. It means balancing the responsibilities of a veteran's life, the demands of a high-pressure academic environment, and the ongoing, intentional work of managing my mental health. For me, success isn’t just about the grades; it’s about maintaining my Standard of Excellence while navigating the complexities of post-service life.

I am sharing this journey to normalize the conversation around the intersection of military experience and mental wellness. Through this series, I am documenting the wins, the setbacks, and the grit it takes to pursue a Bachelor of Social Work, proving it’s never too late to go back to school and chase your dreams. Let’s go to college!

Living with Bipolar 1 isn’t just a medical diagnosis; it’s a daily navigation of life, growth, and balancing the extremes. In this podcast, I’m getting real about what that journey actually looks like—from the highs and lows to managing it all alongside college and building a future. No fluff, just the honest perspective.

Episode 2 – How to Apply for College as an Adult Learner (Without Losing Your Mind)

In this episode, we dive into the step-by-step process of applying to college as an adult learner. I share practical tips I’ve learned along the way, from organizing your documents to navigating the Common App Transfer application. We also talk about helpful tools like Squire that can make the process smoother. Whether you’re going back to school after years away or making a complete career pivot, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and in control of your application journey.

Episode 1 – Welcome & Why Being an Adult Learner is Your Superpower

In this kickoff episode, I introduce the podcast and share my journey as an adult learner. We talk about why there’s no shame in starting (or restarting) your education later in life—and why it can actually work to your advantage. From life experience to resilience, being an adult learner means you bring wisdom, perspective, and grit to the table. Whether you’re 25 or 55, this is your reminder that your timeline is valid, your story matters, and you’re more prepared than you think.

Welcome to Your Non-Trad Grad — the podcast where I keep it 100% real, raw, and unfiltered. No scripts, no edits, just honest conversations about the ups, downs, and everything in between of navigating college as a non-traditional student. This is my space to share the real stories, struggles, and wins — no fluff, no filter. So buckle up and join me on this journey, because here, it’s all about being authentic and owning your story. Let’s get into it.