When Accelerated Degree Program (ADP) student Mike Anthony decided to enroll in Post University’s Legal Studies program, he not only hadn’t taken a college course in nearly 25 years, he had little knowledge of, and no background in, the legal field.
Mike, a 45-year-old husband and father of two, has been with ESPN in Bristol for the past 20 years and is currently a Senior Operations Coordinator in Remote Production Operations. So, why at this point in his life did he decide to go back to school to pursue a Legal Studies degree?
Mike Anthony
“There were two motivating factors that influenced my decision to go back; the advantages that Post University offers online students and the enormous challenge of finally earning my degree,” he said.
Mike met and exceeded that challenge, and next week will be representing the Class of 2016 as the ADP Valedictorian.
“I understood that returning to college after all this time was going to be an uphill climb, but I looked forward to the challenge I was facing. I’ve learned so much not only personally, but professionally, and I’ve become quite invigorated as a result of the program.”
In 2013, Mike enrolled in Post’s Accelerated Degree Program for Legal Studies, and after taking his first law course, he was energized and motivated. Whether it was nights, weekends, or even occasionally on family vacations, Mike set aside time each week to focus on his new area of study.
“I owe a lot of that to the sacrifices my family was willing to take in order for me to succeed,” he said. “The time management skills we learned in CSS101; Learning Across the Lifespan, were also a huge help in keeping my studies on track. A big thank you to Professor Boulanger for that. There is a sense of community unique to the online student body that is palpable from day one at Post. I really enjoyed the small class sizes and the ability to closely interact with my classmates and professors. It was a great help and really enhanced the learning process.”
Mike has been able to immediately begin using the knowledge he’s gained from legal studies and has become more involved in vendor contracts and negotiations at ESPN.
“The course work translated into real life applications instantly, and my managers have allowed me to utilize that work; inclusive of several legal opportunities within my department.”
As Mike looks forward to Commencement Day and his place as ADP Valedictorian, he remembers the journey he’s taken and those who have helped him get to where he is today.
“I have been extremely fortunate to have the love and support of my family, as well as the support I received from the faculty, staff and peers at Post,” he said. “Just imagining the feeling of walking across the graduation stage is something indescribable. This has been a goal of mine for a very long time, so to see that realized will be a very proud moment.”
What’s next for Mike after graduation? Another challenge, of course.
“Right now, I’ll take the time to enjoy this accomplishment, spend some much needed time with the family, and continue training for my fourth half marathon in June. But I know that I’ll look to write the next chapter of my journey over the next few months. I’m hoping to continue my education at some point, and I’d look forward to going back for more.”
Congratulations on earning your Post University degree, Mike!