At this spring’s World Campus commencement ceremony, Taylor Stevens was recognized for her achievements by being selected as the student speaker. Stevens, 26, earned her degree in integrated social sciences, which is offered by World Campus in collaboration with the College of the Liberal Arts.
Originally from Ewing, New Jersey, Stevens now lives in Ft. Hood, Texas. When making her decision on where to get an education, Stevens said that Penn State was always an appealing institution, and World Campus made sense with her schedule.
“Penn State always rang bells to me when I was young. I remember my mom had a Penn State T-shirt, and I thought it was this amazing far, far away place,” said Stevens. “I didn’t think I could actually go but something told me to apply, and when I got accepted I knew that no dream was too big for me. The credibility of Penn State is incredible, the networking thrives, and the pride is unmatched.”
In addition to her World Campus education, Stevens keeps busy as a health care specialist in the medic role. She also founded POWER in 2014 and was the 501st Airborne Infantry Battalion Clinic Representative in 2017. Stevens is EMT certified. In her free time, she enjoys being a wife and a soldier, as well as getting in some relaxation when her schedule allows.
For Stevens, World Campus was vital in allowing her to gain an education while still working and living life.
“World Campus has helped me find passion and success in education again. I have been given the opportunity to live out my dream of graduating from Penn State and still be a full-time soldier,” said Stevens.
While she explains her experience has been full of ups and downs, she said that the academics were strong and that she gained a worldlier outlook.
“It was an experience that developed my professionalism and enlightened my perspective,” said Stevens. “I got to experience different cultures, internships, and work in several organizations. Overall, the experience was rich and I’m still benefitting from it.”
After graduating, Stevens plans to further her education at graduate school. She hopes to study interpersonal communication and education. In addition to graduate school, Stevens wants to do research on communication in the black community, a subject that Stevens is familiar with as an African-American woman.
To other World Campus students, Stevens said, “Keep it up! We are unstoppable. Continue to put excuses to the side and take advantage of every day. World Campus is for people who defy the odds and go after what they want. Use that same mentality to motivate others who may be hesitant to get an education because of unfavorable circumstances.”