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Flexible options from a top public research university

Tami Strickland set out with the goal of working in the nonprofit sector, providing agricultural education to people in developing countries. Her pursuit of a Master of Science in Agricultural and Extension Education from the University of Arkansas was key in seeing that goal become a reality.

Working full-time as the Director of Regulatory Services at Tyson Foods, Inc. meant that she would need to take classes online.

“The online program made my degree pursuit easier and accelerated the completion time,” said Strickland. “The program is designed with flexibility in mind and recognizes the uniqueness of non-traditional students.”

Strickland felt strongly about her decision to study with the U of A.

“I am a second-generation Razorback, my undergraduate degree is from the University of Arkansas, and my son just completed his freshman year at the U of A,” said Strickland. “The U of A is one of the best land-grant universities the U.S. has.”

Strickland said that she values both the education she received and the connections she made along the way.

“Each and every one of my professors were the most dedicated group of professionals I have ever had the pleasure to interact with,” she said. “I place great value on the education they provided, but more importantly the relationships I built with them.”

According to Strickland, her interactions with peers were positive, as well.

“I learned so much from my classmates,” she said. “And they were also great cheerleaders.”

When asked if she would recommend this program to others, Strickland’s response was that she already has.

“One colleague is currently in the program,” she said. “Another will be applying soon!”

Strickland graduated in December 2015 and has realized her goal of working in the nonprofit sector, providing agricultural education to people in developing countries.

“I have had the great pleasure of working on an agricultural project in Haiti,” she said. “The project actually began with a grant proposal I completed for one of my classes.”

She hopes to participate in more projects in developing countries in the future.

In addition to helping her achieve this goal, Strickland said her degree has helped her advance at work.

“The completion of the degree has provided relational and financial advancement at Tyson,” she said.

Strickland says the degree program has also proven beneficial for her family.

“Having my son observe the degree-completion process was invaluable,” she said. “He saw motivation and dedication at its most basic level and what perseverance can accomplish.”