Growing up, I assumed that I would pursue a master’s degree. The importance of education was ingrained into me early in life. When I was in elementary school, my dad went back to school for his second master’s degree. I remember my dad talking to us when I was young and explaining that master’s degrees take two or more years. He spoke about how hard he studied for his first master’s degree at Clemson. He would wrap up the conversation by saying, ” When I walk up to get the diploma, how long is the walk up to get the diploma? Is it the five seconds or two years?” My career plan growing up was occupational therapy, which requires a master’s degree to enter the profession. When I decided not to go into occupational therapy, no problem, I thought I would get another type of master’s degree. I could study public health policy, gerontology, social work, etc. The options of what I could study in graduate school were infinite, but the question I always arrived at was, what was the purpose of my getting this advanced degree? I wanted to ensure this degree would help me advance my chosen career. The big problem was that I couldn’t focus on the job I wanted, so I did not go to graduate school. I was very close to starting a master’s degree program in data analytics, but I got feedback that it might not be a good investment.
My second degree is in healthcare management. My capstone project was IT management. After doing lots of careful research on what would be the best and most cost-effective way to reach my goals, I decided to go the certification route as the one I want to pursue. I’m planning on getting my CCS and CHDA certifications. I’m currently studying for the CDHA and will begin studying for my CCS certification once I have completed and passed my CDHA exam. I would still love to eventually get a master’s degree. I love school, and I love learning. I loved being back in school and getting my second degree. I want to specialize and grow my knowledge in an exciting and passionate area. As I got older, I realized how expensive graduate school is and that it will not replace the importance of networking. I thought for a long time that if I got a graduate degree, I wouldn’t have to engage in networking. I have overcome my aversion to networking, one event at a time.
As I network more, especially in the new year, I hope to share some of my experiences on this blog and any good advice I learn. Professional development can be complex, and I want to help make it less mysterious.
Living on the Spectrum 
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