Associates Share How Tuition Assistance Program Helps Personal, Professional Growth

Eight graduates of the Exchange’s Tuition Assistance program reflect on what they’ve learned on their journey to further their education and how they apply those lessons to carrying out the Exchange mission every day:

Myly Nguyen
Application Systems Program Analyst III, HQ/Information Technology
Amberton University
Master of Business Administration, Project Management

“Here’s how I’m looking back on this journey.

“I have wanted to acquire my MBA for 10 years but have struggled due to juggling work and family life. Due to the pandemic, everything is remote. Therefore, there is less time spent on commuting and more time to focus on the important things. I thought getting my MBA would be a fantastic opportunity, so I jumped at it. Strategic thinking and analysis are two of the most significant skills I have learnt. An MBA program introduces me to this expertise and teaches me how to master it, allowing me to do better at my current job.

“Thank you for everything. This would not have been possible without Tuition Assistance program.”

Courtney Escobedo
Operations Manager, Western Region
Western Governors University
Bachelor of Science in Business, Management

“Entering the program was a great feeling! Months later, COVID brought an uncertainty into all of our worlds, but I knew I was given a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and school had to remain a focus. During the program, there was an immediate impact on my team. I was able to more effectively coach, mentor, and train using strategies and concepts that I was studying in real time. This invigorated myself and mentees, built stronger bonds, and let me know I had made the right choice to return to school.

“The completion of my program has brought big-picture thinking to the forefront. Having a deeper understanding of business acumen and management strategies will allow me to root valuable service, forward thinking and have an overall positive impact on the Exchange.”

Andrew Brooks
Store Manager, Eastern Region
Valdosta State University
Master of Business Administration, Executive

“One of the many purposes of life is to dream—not just an ordinary dream, but a wild dream. Completing my Master of Business Administration was one of my wildest dreams. Thanks to the Exchange for supporting me in that endeavor, and a very special thanks to the Eastern Region senior leaders who inspire and invest in individuals like myself.

“Obtaining this MBA has expanded my professional network, which then allowed me to leverage other skills and expertise, impacting my role within the Exchange.”

Catherine Byrns
General Manager (Dual), Western Region
University of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science in Business, Business

“Getting my bachelor’s degree was not only a personal goal of mine but a great accomplishment for me. Pursing my education played a big part in advancing my career. I have gained knowledge and skills that are opening new opportunities for me.

“Since completing my degree, I feel more confident and empowered, like there is nothing I cannot achieve. Today I’m a general manager, but tomorrow, who knows … maybe an SVP.”

Saundra Griffith
Methods Procedures Analyst, HQ/Finance and Accounting
Columbia Southern University
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration Management

“Learning provides a plethora of opportunities for continued growth.

“The Exchange made it possible for me to advance my learning capabilities, by allowing me to be a part of the Exchange Tuition Assistance program. As a result, I was able to attain my long-sought goal of achieving a Bachelor of Business Administration/Management. Now I am more marketable within this great organization and have achieved a promotion. I would encourage anyone considering the path for upward movement to seek admission into the Exchange Tuition Assistance program. The benefits are worth it.”

 Ashley Guerra
Loss Prevention Manager II, HQ/Loss Prevention
University of Maryland
Bachelor of Arts, Communications

“Completion of my bachelor’s in 2021 was an accomplishment that took longer than anticipated, but it was well worth it. … Simultaneously attending courses and working full time allowed me to apply communication, business and technical skills to use with not only my colleagues and mentors, but also my friends and family. Understanding more of how the world and those in it operate assists in everyday life.  I even started to pool for interviews just two months upon completion.

“Education opens the mind to new ideas, new opinions and new knowledge that no one can take away from you. Go for it! You’ll thank yourself!”

Franklin Moss
Senior Field Loss Prevention Operations Manager, HQ/Loss Prevention
University of Phoenix
Master of Science, Admin Justice & Security

“When asked why I completed a college degree, I often beam, because the challenge was much more enlightening than I expected. The experience filled my lack of professional knowledge as I was unaware of ‘what I did not know.’ In the end, I know that completing a college degree impacted my life by teaching me how to become a stronger coach, how to be a more reasonable leader and improved my confidence as a team member.

“I would recommend that all who can take on the challenge of personal development. Take on any learning activity that releases their interpersonal power.”

Anna Jeffries
Chief of Career Assignments, HQ/Human Resources-Talent
University of Maryland
Bachelor of Science, Human Resource Management

“I am extremely grateful to the Exchange and the Tuition Assistance program. Being accepted into the program allowed me to pursue continued education at a reduced cost and gain career-related skills. I was encouraged to pursue continued education by then-Region SVP and one of our current leaders, Karen Stack. At the time I was a GM in the field. Years later, I transitioned to HR, changed course, and pursued a degree in Human Resource Management. It was tough working full time, taking care of a family and pursuing a degree. However, hard work pays off! I have increased my knowledge, skills, competitiveness, and opportunities through education! It has been personally rewarding and empowering, improved my confidence, and provided a great sense of achievement.

“The Tuition Assistance program is part of our value proposition and lets the workforce know that their education and willingness to improve skills is valued. Thank you, Exchange!”

To see all the 2021 graduates, click here.