JONESBORO – For many students, the time spent obtaining their degree takes place on campus, but for many others, the degree is earned online. While some students do live in the state, many others do not.
“I chose A-State’s online media management program because it allowed me to continue building my career while having a work/life balance,” said Katelyn Wittman. “As a full-time video production teacher and new mother, I needed a program that allowed me to balance family, work and school without sacrificing quality.”
Wittman will graduate from Arkansas State University on Saturday, Dec. 13, obtaining a master’s degree in mass media management. She is one of many students who will make the journey from their home state to attend the commencement ceremony in person.
“Attending the ceremony felt important because this degree represents such a significant chapter of my life. I worked through late nights, busy school days, and the transition into becoming a new mom, and walking in person feels like the perfect way to celebrate all of that dedication,” Wittman added.
To get to the ceremony, she will travel more than 1,500 miles.
“I’ll be traveling from Las Vegas, and my family will join me. My parents have been incredibly supportive throughout this journey, and my husband has been a constant source of encouragement. I’m grateful we’ll get to share this moment together.”
She said it wasn’t just important for her to complete the degree, but it was also vital to walk across the stage and accept the physical representation of all the work and sacrifice that she and other students have put in to reach this milestone.
“This degree marks a major moment of growth, dedication, and fulfillment. Attending the ceremony is symbolic; it’s the physical acknowledgment of years spent developing my skills, supporting students, and building a broadcast program I’m proud of,” she continued. “It means even more knowing that my lifelong love of media has now evolved into something bigger: a career path with purpose, clarity and momentum.”
She said attending the ceremony makes this achievement even more meaningful.
“It allows me to honor the work that went into earning this degree, but also to recognize the support system that made it possible, especially my parents. Standing on that stage will feel like a celebration not just for me, but for everyone who helped me get here.”
Hers is just one of many families who will gather for the Fall Commencement ceremony, all celebrating the completion of degrees and the beginning of future successes.
“I truly feel this program brought my passion full circle. I’ve always loved teaching broadcasting, and the coursework strengthened not only my technical and leadership skills, but also reaffirmed why I chose this field in the first place,” she added. “Every class felt like another step toward becoming the educator, mentor, and media leader I’ve always wanted to be. The program challenged me, supported me, and helped me grow in ways that directly elevated the work I do with my students.”
Graduation ceremonies will be held at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at First National Bank Arena on the A-State campus.
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