Barbara Blanchard started her educational journey at a local community college after nine years in the Air Force and a lay-off from Intel. She acquired her paralegal associate's degree and then learned she qualified for a federal program that provides education funds for those whose jobs have gone overseas, so began the next step on her academic journey with ASU Online.
After review of her academic records, she realized she would be graduating in May, 2017, the same time as her son, veteran Rodney Buller. Together, they attended the Veterans Honor Stole Ceremony and planned to attend commencement. While graduating together was unplanned, throughout their time at ASU they encouraged and motivated each other to push forward.
“I think it’s pretty cool,” Buller said. “Walking down the same aisle for the stole ceremony, and then potentially walking down our commencement. Yeah, that’s my mom.”
As Buller’s mom completes her current academic journey, she has some words of wisdom for others considering higher education.
“It’s never too late,” said Blanchard. “Don’t give up on your dreams.”