by Diana Scott

Suzanne Kristensen

Suzanne Kristensen radiates excitement about teaching and learning. A December graduate, Suzanne attended commencement in May
to receive her Associate of Arts in Teaching degree. “I’m the first person in my immediate family to earn a college degree and I’m very proud of that achievement,” she said. “I’ve wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I even talked all the neighborhood kids into coming to my school,” she explained.

A Westminster resident, Suzanne is married and has four children ranging in age from 6 to 20. Her husband’s job takes him out of town for long periods of time and she largely raised the children on her own. “I chose Carroll because as a nontraditional student I had limited options. I had never gone to college after high school so I wanted a small place at a price I could afford. It had to be close to home because with a two-year old and my other three at home, it was important for me to be nearby. I knew through research and by talking to people that Carroll provided a good education and had a Child Development Center. So I enrolled my child at the center and myself in the college and have never been happier. I’ve made so many friends. Even though I’ve transferred to McDaniel, I still get together with my Carroll friends. Many are my daughter’s age, yet we get along fine, sharing insights at various experience levels.”

As a mother with young children at home, it was difficult to have an active collegiate life, but that did not stop her from being a member of Psi Beta, an honor society for Psychology students and Phi Theta Kappa, the international honors society of two-year colleges. She was also listed in Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges, and participated in her academic community. She transferred to McDaniel College in January. Not bad for a busy mom.

Her advice to incoming students: “Don’t be afraid to ask your professors questions.” One of her daughter’s friends who is in Suzanne’s class said, “Your mom asks all the questions we’re afraid to ask.” Suzanne also recommends talking with your professors. “Become known to them,” she says. “They knew I was here to learn and if I had a sick child they were better able to understand and make accommodations for me.”

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