Angelyn Kukiko Palacios faced some extraordinary challenges on her eight-year academic journey as she earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and human development from Warner Pacific University Online. Despite the complications that come with remote learning and the loss of loved ones, she graduated in December in absentia with her sister accepting her diploma for her.
“I have worked with Angelyn for the past eight years of struggle and triumph, and I am so proud of her persistence, dedication, commitment, and endless grace,” says Nancy Drummond, associate registrar and director of student academic planning. “Angelyn has refused to give up in the face of overwhelming obstacles, and her hard work has paid off.”
Palacios is grateful for the help and encouragement she received from her professors, advisor, and many of the support staff.
“I had not heard of WPU before, but when I read that WPU is Christ-centered, I immediately felt drawn to it,” Palacios says. “Throughout my years at WPU, I felt included and cared for by the WPU team, which is surprising and initially mind-boggling for an online learner like myself.”
Gaining an Extensive Support Network
The support Palacios received even before she enrolled exceeded her expectations.
“From the very beginning, when I first communicated with Mr. Kirby Gleason [former director of academic advising] to learn about WPU, to the time I spoke with Dr. Marlo Waters [registrar] about graduation arrangements, I can readily attest that WPU has always had my back,” Palacios says. “Obtaining my degree at WPU is not just an academic achievement but also evidence of the significant and excellent work the WPU team continually chooses to do for their students daily.”
Though their interactions were not in person, Palacios says she felt the impact of the staff’s efforts to help her succeed.
“Dr. Stela Armstrong [senior professional advisor] would consistently check in to keep me on track,” Palacios says. “She helped me plan out my courses, discussed important school matters, and showed genuine interest in my well-being. And I remember Nancy Drummond, whose excellent efforts go unnoticed.”
Her professors also played a vital role in helping her reach her goals. “I could see that my professors were not merely interested in teaching the class materials to get through but were authentically invested in helping their students, myself included, learn,” Palacios says.
Making a Difference for Family and Community
Palacios always wanted to be a positive role model and parent to her children, nurturing them emotionally in addition to providing materially for them.
“I decided to pursue a psychology and human development degree for several reasons, including my strong desire to better understand and gain essential skills to interact with people more meaningfully and positively,” Palacios says. “I wanted an opportunity to better understand myself and my children’s needs, emotions, and development as they grow up.”
As a recent graduate, she hopes to pursue a career in human services to help increase access to assistance for those in need. “In the meantime, I plan to spend more time with my children and volunteer at nonprofit organizations that center their services and programs around helping the more vulnerable populations,” she says.
Succeeding Against All Odds
Palacios understands what it’s like to face and overcome difficulties. She experienced a number of personal and logistical challenges while working to earn her degree from her home on the island of Saipan in the western Pacific Ocean.
“There were moments I struggled with not receiving my books and course materials in time for class, mainly due to the slow air and shipping traffic and living so far out in the Pacific,” Palacios says. “I remember communicating back and forth with my professor, who helped provide alternative ways to obtain the needed information required for the class.”
Weather patterns also created some challenges for Palacios. For example, she had to navigate internet disruptions when typhoons passed through the area.
“WPU was always responsive and helpful in addressing technical challenges and navigating the various online WPU platforms,” she says.
“I’ve also lost loved ones along the way, which was probably the most challenging for me,” Palacios says. At the time, she was a single parent, working full time, attending classes, and trying to keep her emotions in check.
It was “no walk in the park,” she says, “but keeping my faith in God and knowing that God is on my side, learning to manage my time, and allowing myself to have a positive support system helped tremendously.”
Embracing Change and Self-Reflection
“In one of my classes, I was introduced to the concept of kaizen, which means ‘change for the better,’” Palacios says. “It reminded me that change is inevitable, but we all have the choice to use change to create or continue something better in our lives. This philosophy empowered me not to give up or give in to cynicism, procrastination, pity, or self-doubt.”
Attending class and interacting with her classmates virtually also helped Palacios learn to self-reflect and see things from different perspectives, she says. She realized she was not alone, despite the geographical distance.
Maintaining Faith and Hope at Every Turn
“I can’t say that I am a devout Catholic who never misses church, but I pray a lot,” Palacios says. “I have always believed that prayer is my time to connect and talk with the Lord, and God listens and responds in either subtle ways or loudly through people and situations.”
She cites 1 Corinthians 10:13 as a source of strength and comfort: “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
“I believe this verse reminds every believer that God will not give us more than we can handle without his help,” Palacios says. “This verse also gives me hope that, whatever I may be going through at the moment, with God on my side, I will ‘see the end of the tunnel.’”
She’s thankful for the good people she considers God-sent who remind her of that verse and help guide and support her.
“Sometimes, the situation or experience may seem bleak, but there is always a way out, even when it’s hard to see clearly,” Palacios says. “There is hope, and blessings come in different forms, both small and big. At times, we want to stop because it feels easier, but taking baby steps can lead to great results. You are not alone. We are surrounded by good people, who I consider God’s angels. Keep the faith and keep God close because he loves you immensely and will certainly carry you through.”
Find Your Purpose With WPU Online
Palacios’ advice to individuals considering pursuing a degree through WPU Online is this: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help.
“Many amazing people at WPU are willing to lend a helping hand as you continue your journey,” Palacios says. “Whether it’s providing information, planning your courses, having meaningful discussions, navigating the WPU website, addressing technical difficulties, understanding a class project, or discovering practical study tips, the faculty, staff, and students at WPU are ready and willing to help you. And, soon enough, you’re walking across the stage to receive your diploma.”
WPU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Development program is a degree completion program designed for working professionals who have attended some college. With online and hybrid format options, the program allows students to integrate their faith and values into their studies, gaining a deep understanding of issues related to psychological and social development and how to honor and respect individuals’ differences.
Learn more about the bachelor’s in psychology and WPU Online’s other social sciences degrees today.
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