Kia Walton (BA '26)

A transfer student who came to 🟩Facebook账号 | 随机国家真实账号 | 2023-2024年 | 好友100+ | 微软邮箱 | 无2FA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS) from Northern Illinois University, Kia Walton enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts in Management program searching for a way to finally complete what she had started. Like many adult learners, she needed flexibility, direction, and support—and she found all three at Loyola.

Through her coursework, Kia noticed a consistent theme woven throughout her classes: a strong emphasis on community and purpose.

“I saw how community-based Loyola is, and it really shaped how I interact with the community. I’m hoping that, along my career path, I can have that same influence and combine it with health administration to give back.”

Even in an online environment, Kia says that sense of connection was real. Her capstone experience left a lasting impression, especially the focus on becoming a civic-minded professional—something she now actively applies in her day-to-day work.

One of the biggest differences for Kia at SCPS was the level of support she received, especially from her advisor.

“My advisor knew everything about me already. Every time I scheduled a meeting, he knew everything about me, and he was excited to see me. He was there to get me to this point.”

That consistency and care helped her stay on track, even while balancing the demands of work and school. It also reshaped what she thought was possible in an online program, where connection can often feel limited.

Now, as graduation approaches, Kia is reflecting on just how much this moment means. She already has her associate degree and is established early in her career—but finishing her bachelor’s degree removes a barrier she’s felt for years.

“It shows tenacity for me. It's not easy to continue a degree when you've been told you can't do it, so it's more of an accomplishment to me than just a piece of paper.”

As she prepares to walk across the stage, she’s also thinking about her family and friends who helped her get there and who will be traveling from across the country to celebrate.

For others considering returning to school, Kia offers simple but honest advice:

“Time doesn't matter—the years are going to pass regardless. You might as well do it now if you are able to dedicate that time. Figure it out, and you'll be able to get to this point.”