Student Services:

Featured Learner - Chatiel Gray

Meeting the challenge

"When I graduated high school in 2003, my one and only desire was to attend college and become a successful business owner," Chatiel Gray said. "I promised myself and my family that no matter what obstacles got in the way, I would step over them and fulfill my dream. I have had quite a few obstacles, but the biggest challenge was becoming a single parent."

Now that Chatiel has joined the 2008 graduating class, she is looking back on her Peirce experience and shares some important thoughts. "I attended another college for one year and decided to transfer," she said. "I came to Peirce College in January 2005 as an online student, mainly because I was unable to make it to campus. Peirce's online program was convenient and suited my schedule, even when I went back to work. The online program gave me an opportunity to complete my degree through the accelerated program."

Chatiel obtained an Associate Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Small Business Management/Entrepreneurship, and a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management. She enjoyed being able to take courses in accounting, economics and marketing.

She is very proud of her achievements. "The degrees not only satisfy my personal goal, they also serve as a badge of honor for my family," she said. "I am only the second person in my family to receive a college degree. I feel honored because I stand not only as a positive role model for my son, but also for my sister, brother, younger cousins and young adults in my neighborhood."

Chatiel first learned about Peirce via the Internet. As a student, the accelerated learning format, innovative curriculum and the real-world experience of the faculty enabled her to succeed, she said. For Chatiel, the most important services offered by Peirce are those available through the Walker Center, and the support she received from her advisor. She plans to use her degree in the workplace by applying the skills and knowledge she acquired at Peirce.

"My advice to other Peirce students is to work hard, stay focused, think critically, learn to be flexible and use effective communications" Chatiel added. "You must network with others, because you can always learn something from everyone you meet, if you take the time to do so."