The Harrison Connection

Alumni Share the Harrison Difference

October 23, 2014

Arisa Garrison A.A.S. | Medical Assistant & Medical Office Assistant | 2014

The Harrison Difference was being able to never lose sight of what I was working for and the support system that allowed me to continue and not lose my motivation.

Breanne BargerA.A.S. | Business Marketing | 2010

The Harrison Difference was knowing the faculty and staff were a community of help and support whenever I needed assistance. Now I give back to students by working at Harrison. I let them know I, too, was in their spot just a couple of years ago and am here to help their journey be successful.

Melody HallA.A.S. | Accounting| 2014

The Harrison Difference for me was that Harrison offered not only the courses I needed in order to succeed, but also the tools to help me succeed. Harrison gave the challenge to learn how to develop discipline and time management skills and to put them in use on a day-to-day schedule. The instructors were helpful in answering questions and concerns, but also in letting me realize the potential and resources I had available to me. I'm a living example of "The Harrison Difference" because I've put to use the things I've learned.

Stephanie JerstadB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2014

The Harrison Difference was feeling included even when you're an online student. Local staff—in particular Brenda Shay—made me feel a part of the Evansville campus family, and never once did I feel alone. I knew if I ever needed assistance, or encouragement, someone from the Harrison College staff was just an email or phone call away! For me, that's what made MY difference!

David JenkinsA.A.S. | Network Administration | 2013

The Harrison Difference was the chance to better myself and grow with the changing technologies. I feel that if I had not had enrolled in Harrison, life would have left me behind and I would be clueless to the changes in our society brought on by the advancements of the computing / cyber social structure that plays a great part in today’s markets. I have been exposed to a whole new way of communicating with others.

Nikia WashingtonA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2014

The Harrison Difference was the caring staff. They were always there to encourage me to keep going when I wanted to give up and walk away from school. I'm a living example of the Harrison Difference because I did it! I left for about two years then returned and was able to pick up from where I left off.

Michelle KnoseA.A.S. | Administrative Professional | 2014

The Harrison Difference was that Harrison was the only school that did not require me to take the college entrance exams again. I had already passed them but it had been almost ten years and all the other colleges told me I would have to take them again. Harrison also has allowed me to continue my education by cross-majoring and allowing all the classes that I have taken to count toward the other degrees.

Jennifer CooperA.A.S. | Human Resources | 2013

The Harrison Difference was more personalized attention from teachers that actually show that they care about your success. I'm a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have earned one degree and I am continuing my education for two more degrees, and will eventually return to Harrison for my bachelors.

Vallencia StarkA.A.S. | Business Management | 2014

For me, the Harrison Difference was life changing and confidence building.

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I worked hard to achieve in my life and my career. I am more knowledgeable, confident and successful.

Michael LeeA.A.S. | Business Administration | 2008

The Harrison Difference was coming to school to another big family. Everyone was treated equally and respectfully which made it easier to learn. I was ready to go to class even though I was working full-time and attending night courses. After graduation I was able to take on leadership positions and get promoted faster than my peers due to the educational edge I had.

Omara Reach TurnerB.S. | Business Management | 2014

The Harrison Difference was to attend classes at my own time because I work Monday to Friday; 9am to 5pm. All of the staff was very helpful and available for questions. Technology was informed in advance. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am a wife, full-time employee, an older person (45 years) and English is my second language.

Jeff JenkinsonCertificate | Help Desk Technician | 2014

The Harrison Difference for me was that Harrison was the most helpful school I have attended. So much so that I’m enrolled to get my associate’s degree. I’m a living example of the Harrison Difference because if someone who has had the issues that I have had still can finish, so can anyone else.

Stacey HendrixB.S. | Business Management | 2010

The Harrison Difference was the hands-on personalized education. I loved that everyone knew my name and would greet me in the hall. The 1:1 assistance I received with registration, financial aid, etc. was very valuable. Harrison gave me the motivation to finish my degrees and I am very proud of my success.

Virgil JonesA.A.S. | Criminal Justice | 2013

The Harrison Difference for me was the faculty and staff. Everyone made me feel like I was important and on my way to success. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because now I am an employee of Harrison. I can relate to questions and concerns of students because I was once on the other side of the desk.

Connie DoolinA.A.S. | Criminal Justice | 2012

For me, the Harrison Difference was the difference between a job and a career. It’s also given me the confidence I had always lacked throughout the years. I never thought I would ever be the first person in my family to graduate high school, but here I am in the last stretch of my bachelor’s degree.

Mary HeatonA.A.S. | MOA and MRT | 2012 and 2013

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am pursing my third degree here since 2010. I have three kids and a full-time job. I’ve learned you can do anything you set your mind to. I’m doing this for my kids and our future. My son is 7 and he told me he is ready for college now and wants to go to Harrison.

Jennifer GebertA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2009

For me, the Harrison Difference was the investment that was made by my instructors toward me reaching my goals. I’m a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have a job that I love and am passionate about.

John BrooksA.A.S. | Culinary Arts | 2013

The Harrison Difference for me was being able to relate to staff and students. Before Harrison I had been out of high school for two years getting ambitious but about negative things. Harrison kind of gave me something to look forward to and showed me I had talent.

Alicia WhitesellB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2010

The Harrison Difference was always having someone there for me at every hour whether I needed help or was overwhelmed. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because now I can give back to Harrison and its students. Being an Alumni Ambassador and eMentor, I can provide the same help that was given to me.

Stella WilliamsB.S. | Healthcare Management | 2005

The Harrison Difference was I had no hope of what to do with my life. I decided to go back to school and I double majored with high honors. When I was ready to quit, my instructor Vicki Williams and others, pulled me aside and encouraged me. That made a difference to me!

Kathy JonesA.A.S. | Business Management | 2014

The Harrison Difference

Rebecca PebleyA.A.S. | Accounting/Human Resources/Business Mgt. | 2012

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am now a successful business woman, that is not shy, and I’m working in my field. I would not be where I am today if I had not attended Harrison.

Dianna HendersonA.A.S. | MRT / Medical Assisting | 2011

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I went back to school at the age of 46. The small class sizes and intimate setting helped me to thrive. I now have a career and skills that would allow me to work any where in the country. I love my job as a CMA at St. Mary’s Urgent Care Epworth.

Michael LykensA.A.S. | Accounting | 1974

I attended Harrison when it was Indiana Business College. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have held positions of accountant, senior accountant, plant controller, accounts payable manager and township trustee in Henry County.

Emily HartmanA.A.S./Certificate | Medical Office Assistant/MCTech. | 2014

For me, the Harrison Difference was the small class sizes. I loved being in small classes and feeling like the teachers had time for us one-on-one if we needed it.

Lauren StrotherA.A.S. | Pastry Arts | 2012

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am volunteering my time to be an Alumni Ambassador and giving back to the school I feel gave me so much. I enjoy speaking to new students and getting them fired up for their education by sharing my story. I love that Harrison has stayed in touch with me over the years and I want to be involved on every level.

Terry ThompsonB.S. | Business Management | 2014

The Harrison Difference was flexible scheduling that allowed me to continue working while in school. I was also lucky to have instructors who cared and took the time to make sure each individual was given an opportunity to learn. The great support staff treated everyone with respect. All of this made for an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Sara StandleeB.S. | Healthcare Management | 2013

The Harrison Difference was being able to receive a great education and to feel like I wasn’t a number. The personalization is what really worked for me. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have two excellent jobs! I am the billing specialist at a hospital and also instruct future billing and coding specialists.

Melissa BarnesB.S. | Human Resources | 2014

The Harrison Difference was exploring new career challenges and opportunities. Along the way I also had the opportunity to meet new people and bond lasting relationships with fellow alumni.

Yvonne MorrisseyB.S. | Healthcare Management Management | 2011

The Harrison Difference was the smaller class sizes and the instructors who truly cared about the students and their success. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am currently an instructor at Harrison and am happy here for the same reasons I was as a student; smaller classes that allow me to get to know the students. I’m always happy to help students who want help.

Stacy WyattA.A.S. | Medical Assisting/Medical Office Assistant | 2011

The Harrison Difference was the instructors taking the time to make sure I succeeded. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I take the time with my patients to know exactly what they need and as the nurses in my department say, “work my magic.” I care about my patients as my instructors cared about my career.

Tia MooneyB.S. | Business Management | 2014

The Harrison Difference was life changing and confidence building. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I worked hard to achieve in my life and my career. I am more knowledgeable, confident and successful.

Melissa McCormickB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2010

The Harrison Difference was that by going back to school to finish my associate’s degree it made me realize no matter what age I am, I can do anything I set my mind to. Once I complete my CMA exam and get my foot in the door of the direction I plan to go, I will continue on with my bachelor’s degree.

Alycia GossB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2010

The Harrison Difference was the small class sizes and the availability of my professors for help, as well as their passion to see their students succeed. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I am working in the position I have always wanted, as a paralegal for a well-established law firm in Indy. I couldn’t be happier to be waking up every morning and going to work.

Katie CurtisA.A.S. | Medical Assistant | 2014

The Harrison Difference was being able to provide my daughter with the life I have never had. Without Harrison I would never have finished school. The people at Harrison help you all the way through college and even after you finish.

Angela BarnettB.S. | Accounting/Business Finance | 2012

The Harrison Difference was the small classroom size and the one-on-one teacher, student interaction. I’m a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have succeeded in not only my associates but pursued through my masters degree, with the confidence given to me by the Harrison Difference.

Tammy RobinsonB.S. | Healthcare Management | 2013

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because of my current success. Completing my degree with online and ground classes really worked for me and my busy schedule. Everyone was willing to go above and beyond to help me achieve this goal at a time when my personal life was at its worst. The encouragement I received from staff and classmates made we want to continue on to achieve this goal and I did!

Kim BrockA.A.S. | Medical Records Technology | 2014

The Harrison Difference was even with online classes I was able to go to campus for tutoring and mentoring. The staff was helpful, supportive and pushed me to succeed. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I graduated at 56 and am excited to learn more. I can get a good job now because of my education. I have learned it is never too late to learn!

Danyal KelsheimerA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2014

The Harrison Difference was the way the faculty and staff were interested in my success, even after graduation. I didn’t feel like a number and I still feel like I am part of a family. I’m working full-time for Terre Haute Medical Clinic. If I could do this so could others.

Tammy SkilesB.S. | Healthcare Management | 2013

The Harrison Difference was family that cared for me when life was tough in the “real world.” I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I never gave up even though my personal life was in shambles. Harrison was my safe place where people cared about me and who I was. I graduated as a CMA, received my B.S. and am pursing a masters degree.

Melanie DeschamphelaereB.S. | Criminal Justice| 2013

The Harrison Difference was the instructors. Even online they had great personalities that came through. I could tell they cared about their jobs, as instructors and where they learned the craft from as well. I’m a living example of the Harrison Difference because I was scared to go back to school. The encouragement and support I received pushed me to do my best.

Alicia BarnesB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2013

The Harrison Difference was the help from everyone including instructors, financial aid counselors, and office staff. Everyone was great and if someone wasn’t able to answer a question, they made sure I was referred to one that could.

Jennifer MontgomeryB.S. | Criminal Justice | 2013

The Harrison Difference was the reason I completed my degree and I became the person I am today. The instructors realized I am a hands on learner, not someone who learns by listening to lectures. Because of their guidance I am a mental health technician using my criminal justice degree to help troubled youth get their lives straightened out.

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I have taken the tools I was taught and I use them every day working with my clients and changing lives on a daily basis.

Courtney LovettA.A.S. | MRT & Medical Office Assisting | 2014

The Harrison Difference was having a great support staff and instructors to help me get through my classes and become a successful degree holder. I love Harrison College because they are student oriented and they really care about their students. My experience with Harrison has been amazing and I am so happy to be continuing my education with them.

Jennifer AbstonA.A.S. | Medical Assisting & Medical Reimbursement Technology| 2010

The Harrison Difference was what got me a degree in medical assisting. I enjoyed learning, meeting new people and trying to make a difference in my life and for my children. I started college when I was pregnant with my youngest child and had three other boys at home. It was hard being a single parent but I never gave up.

Joyce MinickB.S. | Business Management | 2011

The Harrison Difference for me was that I was given an opportunity to complete my degree while working full-time and raising a family. The professors provided the guidance and direction for me to achieve this goal while completing all of my classes online.

Melissa RandleA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2011

I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I was provided the access of books, internet, fellow students and most importantly faculty and staff were accessible to help me when needed. The small classrooms benefited me to be able to have some fantastic group discussions. They broadened my outlook in many areas of life and helped me to be more open to thoughts of others when weighing life or business decisions.

Marcy FryDiploma | Office Management | 1994

The Harrison Difference was the staff knew everyone by name, the class sizes were small and it was the mission of the staff and faculty to empower the students. With the support and dedication I have been able to have a very successful professional career and have continued my education to complete my bachelor’s degree.

Jessi WoodcockA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2014

For me, Harrison was fantastic! The instructors are all amazing and helped me each step of the way. They were there for me when I needed help. I am a living example of the Harrison Difference because I graduated in Sept.2014, walked in Oct. and am continuing for my bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management.

Ashley SettlesCertificate/A.A.S. | Medical Office Assistant/Medical Assisting | 2014

For me, the Harrison Difference was smaller class sizes. I came from a high school with small classes and I wanted to have that in college as well.

Tara WilkersonA.A.S. | Medical Office Assisting & MRT | 2013

The Harrison Difference was that I was provided an enormous range of emotional and financial support in order to help me become a successful graduate. They were there on all levels and demonstrated that the administrators, instructors and staff cared about me. I made it through all of my trials, tribulations, challenges, illnesses and endured. All things are possible if you step out in faith, integrity, determination and the willingness to make a change in your life.

Latanza BeasleyA.A.S. | Medical Assisting | 2014

For me, the Harrison Difference was the hands-on training from knowledgeable caring professors. The encouragement to succeed and willingness to assist was provided by all the staff. I was more than a number or a student loan check. I’m a living example of the Harrison Difference because I returned to school in my late 30s and with the stress of everyday life I still completed my degree. With this accomplishment I’m inspired to continue my educational goals. I’m on the pathway to a great future and it all started with Harrison College.