Graduate Spotlight: Anastasia Stevenson

Anastasia Stevenson, born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, is the youngest of 10 children, and the first in her family to receive a college degree. In 2009, she received a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management from Webster University-Saint Louis. But, Stevenson didn't stop there; she continued on in her educational journey and completed her Master of Science degree in Information Management – Project Management with distinction at UA Grantham in July 2010.

Stevenson had three people, her husband, Michel Green, and Cassandra Schwantes, support her throughout her educational journey. Her husband introduced her to UA Grantham, and she instantly fell in love with the accelerated format and the 100% online courses. Michael Green was the first voice she heard from Grantham. "Michael was my Admissions Representative and he was awesome!" she commented. "He made this decision and the enrollment process seamless." Stevenson also had wonderful things to say about Cassandra Schwantes, her Student Advisor (SA). "My SA was also the best! She was receptive and on top of things. Her conversation and motivation in between classes was what I needed to stay on task!" While these three people motivated and supported Stevenson during her classes, it was because of her dedication and determination that she graduated with her degree in less than one year. Her accomplishment is impressive and inspiring.

Stevenson enjoyed that she did not have to sit in a classroom for hours and have to wait on other students to move forward in the course. She commented, "Having the ability to progress as I wanted was one of the best features of this school." She also loved that she was able to finish her courses faster than the eight weeks allotted. Because Stevenson completed her degree so quickly, it may make earning a master's degree seem simple, but that is definitely not the case. It is a major accomplishment that took dedication and sacrifice. Stevenson understands both of these concepts from being an Army wife. She is married to Staff Sergeant Corey Stevenson.

So, what's next for Stevenson? She is newly employed by MasterCard Worldwide in the Project Management Office, and she plans to use her degree to continue to move further up in the company. Continuing on with her project management education, she plans to study for the Project Management Professional licensure. Also, she and her husband are excited for the future; they are expecting their first child.

This lifetime learner had some advice to those students who are thinking about attending Grantham. "Grantham is a great place to study….the staff and faculty is personable and helpful. UA Grantham is a great choice!"

The University is proud to have Anastasia as a graduate, and we wish her all the happiness and luck in the future.