Linda Murphy went back to school as a working adult – and you can too! Although she navigated the evolution of health technology through 25 years of work experience in the field, her latent fear of math posed a major barrier to pursuing the college degree she always wanted.
Linda was already a student of a church-based Bible Institute when she learned about the ACE program. One evening, in dialog with the Director, Linda learned she would soon have an opportunity to earn a degree right at the church! “Harcum is coming!” At that time, health concerns necessitated fewer work hours, freeing up some time in her schedule. Encouraged by her dream, the ACE team at Deliverance, and the two evenings per week class schedule, Linda signed up.
Right from the beginning, Linda experienced the support and encouragement of the Deliverance ACE team who were in her corner through the entire program. She experienced the same with the instructors. “They set you up to succeed.” And Linda was successful. Even the fear of math that had barred her from returning to college sooner was broken through! The right instruction and the help of online practice tools now available made a huge difference. Through repeated assignments and practice, Linda also overcame a fear of public speaking. “Now presentations are no problem!” But Linda doesn’t pretend that she sailed through the program. “It was not easy, I worked hard and earned my grades. You have to really want it, then there’s always a way.”
On her journey through the program, people who started as classmates became friends. Linda was a role model and mother figure to younger classmates. With her peers, Linda exchanged the shared life experiences of growing up in Philadelphia enduring the turbulence of the 60s. These conversations opened understanding across racial lines and changed the perspectives of all involved.
Linda graduated in 2016 with an Associate Degree in Human Services. She was given a Leadership Award in recognition of her enthusiasm, academic achievement, and encouragement of fellow students. Linda chose to continue immediately at Chestnut Hill College where she earned a Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude in 2018.
As with her higher education journey, Linda pours positive life energy into her work.The degrees enabled her to shift career directions and become a Cognitive Behavioral Specialist. Linda works with people who have traumatic brain injuries and need to relearn daily life activities and communication. The research skills and knowledge of psychology gained through her studies equip her to gather new strategies to serve clients. “We set goals together, track progress, and celebrate achievements. It’s very rewarding.”
Linda is living proof that it’s never too late to learn.