2026 Commencement | Associate Degree in Business: Deann Smith’s Comeback Story

Associate Degree in Business graduate Deann Smith shares how she overcame major life challenges to earn her first college degree. In this video, we explain Associate Degree in Business, including how education can create new opportunities and personal transformation. Deann discusses how the Associate Degree in Business program works, what it takes to stay consistent, and what individuals should consider when returning to school after difficult life circumstances. Her journey highlights why education matters as a tool for rebuilding stability and creating long-term career paths. This episode covers key sub-topics such as overcoming adversity, balancing parenthood and education, and developing personal discipline. It also explores the outcomes associated with earning an Associate Degree in Business, including increased confidence, career mobility, and the ability to pursue further education. This video is relevant for adult learners, individuals facing setbacks, and anyone considering going back to school for the first time.   ⭐️ Key takeaways from this episode: ✓ Deann's background and challenges ✓ The role of faith and community support ✓ The importance of grit and self-belief ✓ Future plans and aspirations   📖 Chapters: Jump to Key Moments 00:00 - Overcoming Adversity: A Journey from Homelessness to Graduation 02:33 - The Power of Grit and Self-Discovery 05:53 - Faith and Support: The Role of God and Community 07:47 - Inspiring the Next Generation: Lessons for My Children 10:15 - Future Aspirations: Building a Shelter and Continuing Education 12:51 - Encouragement for Others: Taking the Leap of Faith If this helped, please like, comment with your biggest takeaway, and subscribe for more leadership and career conversations. 👉 https://www.youtube.com/@UOPXDegreesOfSuccessPodcast Learn more about scholarships at UOPX! 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/info/scholarships.html Alumni Chronicles | Magazine 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/magazine.html Alumni Chronicles | Main Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles.html Explore the Degrees of Success Podcast Page 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/alumni-chronicles/podcast.html   Explore the University of Phoenix 👉 https://www.phoenix.edu/ ⭐️ Connect with us on social! ►TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uopx ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/universityofphoenix ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopxalumni/ ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uopx/ ► LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/university-of-phoenix/ ► X: https://x.com/UOPX Thinking about attending UOPX online? 📱 Request info today: https://www.phoenix.edu/request/request-information 💻 Apply to one of UOPX’s online programs today: https://rb.gy/k0a75c 🎓 Find your degree program University of Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.edu/online-degrees/find-your-program.html