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Vearlane Edge
BA in Communication and Media
Class of 2014
Alumna Vearlane Edge was a recipient of the Bob Martin Memorial Scholarship and is a graduate of the CUNY SPS Communication & Culture degree program (Class of 2014), now known as the B.A. in Communication & Media.
We recently asked Vearlane about her experience as a CUNY SPS student, life since graduation, her goals, and some of her favorite things outside the classroom. Here are a few excerpts from our conversation.
Q: Why did you choose CUNY SPS?
I chose CUNY SPS because of the time constraint in my schedule. I had already enrolled in Queens College ACE Program taking classes on the weekend until the classes began to conflict with other activities. I was very disheartened when I could not complete my studies. I kept in touch with my adviser until one day, approximately 2 years later, she informed me that there will soon be an online opportunity available which she felt would benefit my academic needs. I waited for another year and was very excited when I was notified of CUNY SPS, I was very excited that the waiting game was over and that I could continue my education online.
Q: What most appealed to you about your CUNY SPS degree program?
The most appealing things to me about my CUNY SPS degree program was the accessibility and access to the teachers who were very knowledgeable and helpful, and the friendly and helpful students. The easy access to the curriculum and the internal as well as external resources, the appropriate timelines and deadlines, the ability to work at my own pace with great flexibility was also great. Although the curriculum was very challenging, it was a good way of engaging and expanding my knowledge and the way of examining and researching facts.
Q: How was your recognition as a Bob Martin Memorial Scholarship awardee important to you?
The recognition as a scholarship awardee was very important to me, especially since it was unexpected and was very welcomed at a very challenging time in my life. It showed that the time I invested in my accomplishments were recognized and appreciated by others. It was very inspiring especially as an older individual returning to complete my degree; that was really encouraging.
Q: How did you find your online interaction with other students? With faculty?
I found my online interaction with other students and faculty a very rewarding and necessary experience. It was very encouraging to know that we were from a plethora of environments and diverse cultures but we were able to respect and accept each other’s opinions and work ethics when they differed from each other.
Q: What were some of the most defining aspects of your time at CUNY SPS?
Some of my most defining aspects of my time at CUNY SPS were overcoming many challenges and looking back at each hurdle in awe. I came in with phobias in Math, Science and Spanish; however, through the assistance of the faculty and students, I was able to not only face these phobias but complete them at a high academic level. I was able to embrace the new forms of technology which was another defining aspect for me.
Q: What is the most important thing you learned at CUNY SPS?
The most important thing I learned at CUNY SPS is to never give up. Regardless of how tough the challenge may seem break down the process into smaller pieces and then build them back up. I learned open communication is key especially when faced with a challenge, keep pursuing until you find and answer.
Q: How has your CUNY SPS degree influenced your career?
My CUNY SPS degree influenced my career by giving me an understanding of organizational structure, knowledge of the various forms of global communication as well as understanding the role culture plays in every area of our lives.
Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is being able to effectively communicate with sensitivity while keeping the end goal in mind for effective results.
Q: Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself in or having completed a master's program, retiring from my secular job and having my community outreach organization, the Arms of Love Community Outreach, Inc., which I established 6 years ago, fully operating independently.