Every Doubt and Fear I had About My Ability to Complete my Degree Was Resolved

Juanta Griffin

My favorite part of the BGS program is being able to complete my degree with Eastern Illinois University. I left EIU in 1997 in my senior year to get married. I had 105 credit hours. Having "almost a degree" wasn't enough to obtain adequate employment. I thought of transferring to another university closer to home, however most universities require that you complete 60 credit hours from their institution in order to become degree eligible. The BGS program will allow me to complete my degree close to home, in face to face classes, from Eastern Illinois University. 

    After graduation I plan to continue my education by applying to graduate school and obtaining an MFA, Master of Fine Arts Degree. I am passionate about theatre! I've worked with young people from preschool to high school, teaching basic acting skills, coaching speech team, directing gospel choir and producing summer theatre productions. I would like to continue to work with students in the fine arts field at the college level.

    My biggest struggle in completing my degree was finances. The BGS program offers many scholarship opportunities that made it possible for me to continue my education. The financial aid office at EIU was patient in assisting me with my FASFA.

    I would advise anyone looking to be in the BGS program to meet with an adviser, ask questions and start the process as soon as possible. 

I wasted 19 years because I kept telling myself what I couldn't do, and what I didn't have, when all I had to do was ASK. Every doubt and fear I had about my ability to complete my degree was resolved when I walked into the EIU office at Triton college and sat down with Jackie Johnson Janesku. I will have my bachelors degree this summer because I got out of my own way, and started the BGS program. I AM EIU!

Visit our website or join us on Facebook so you can connect with BGS faculty, and alumni. Learn what others are saying about their experience in the B.A. in General Studies degree program for adults and find an upcoming open house event near you!