As an academic advisor for the College of Engineering at The University of Alabama, Hannah Hare has a deep passion for supporting students and helping them succeed. This passion, paired with her determination to progress into leadership roles in higher education, led her to pursue a master’s in Higher Education Administration from UA Online. For Hannah, this degree is not just a credential — it’s a stepping stone toward a future of greater impact.
“My goal is to continue advancing into higher leadership positions while still maintaining that meaningful connection with students,” she explains. “Earning this master’s degree is essential for that kind of career growth and development.”
Hannah’s journey has been shaped by her experiences as a first-generation college student. Growing up in a small town in Iowa, Hannah moved to Alabama to pursue her undergraduate degree in Psychology, graduating from UA in 2021. “I lived with my aunt and uncle during high school, and they’re the ones who introduced me to The University of Alabama,” Hannah said. “Once I toured the campus, I knew it was the right place for me.”
Now a full-time employee at UA, Hannah has found that the flexibility of earning her degree 100% online has been instrumental in balancing her career and educational goals. “I don’t think I would have been able to pursue another degree if it weren’t offered online,” she admits. “The ability to fit my coursework around my full-time job has been absolutely crucial for me.”
Working as an academic advisor has given Hannah a unique perspective on her graduate studies, allowing her to directly apply what she learns in her courses to her interactions with students. “The knowledge and skills I’m gaining from my classes translate immediately into my work,” she shares. “It’s rewarding to bring real-world experience into discussions and to see the connections between theory and practice in action.”
Since starting the master’s program in the fall of 2023, Hannah said her two favorite classes so far have been “Issues of Diversity in Higher Education” and “Students in Higher Education.” “These classes have resonated with me deeply because they align perfectly with my interests in student well-being and improving the overall student experience,” she said. “I’ve been able to reflect on how diversity and inclusion impact students, which has helped me better serve the students I advise.”
Hannah’s journey has not been without doubts, especially as a nontraditional student balancing work and school. However, her perseverance has led her to thrive. “My advice to others considering a degree is simple: Just go for it. It may seem daunting at first, but it’s absolutely worth it in the end,” she said.
Looking to the future, Hannah is considering the possibility of further advancing her education through UA Online’s EdD program in Higher Education Administration. “I’ve definitely thought about moving on to the EdD program after I complete my master’s, though the idea of the dissertation is still a bit intimidating,” she laughs.
Despite the challenges, Hannah is excited to count down the semesters until she completes her master’s degree, with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. “I’m just really grateful for this opportunity—not only to earn my degree online but to study something I’m truly passionate about,” she said.
Through her role at UA and her experiences as a graduate student, Hannah is a powerful example of how online education can open doors, enabling professionals to pursue their passions and make a lasting impact on their communities.
Published: October 14th, 2024