Meet Kelly

Name: Kelly Hoosier

Class of: 2026

Program: Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice w/ a conc. in Cybercrime

"We, as students, truly appreciate your donations to the scholarships at SNHU! It helps us tremendously with being able to afford to go back to school."


What do you like most about SNHU?

I love SNHU because of the option to get my degree online. I have four children still at home and I wouldn't have time to go to a traditional college in order to get a degree. The classes are laid out in a way that is easy to understand and there is help available to those that need it. I've had some amazing professors and currently have a pretty amazing academic advisor. Thankful for this school! 

How do the scholarships and financial aid you receive make it possible for you to attend SNHU? Specifically, how have scholarships made a difference?

This scholarship has helped me offset part of the balance of the term! This allows me to focus more on taking care of my family and my courses, rather than having to worry about if my financial aid will be enough to cover my full college experience.

What would you say to those who donate to support student scholarships?

We, as students, truly appreciate your donations to the scholarships at SNHU! It helps us tremendously with being able to afford to go back to school. Many of us are older adults returning to school, who have families and other responsibilities, and we truly appreciate your support! Thank you!!!

Why did you choose Southern New Hampshire University?

Southern New Hampshire University offered the programs that I wanted to study and gave me the ability to get my degree online. Also, the cost of tuition is reasonable and traditionally lower than other colleges.

What was your hope in receiving a college education? How has your experience been different than what you’d imagined?

I love to learn. I wanted the opportunity to find a family/college life balance. I wanted to show my younger children that no matter what obstacles might stand in their way, they should always reach for the stars. I've loved attending SNHU! I thought that I might struggle after being out of school for so long, but with the way that the courses are laid out I've been able to learn and get the support I need to maintain my 4.0 GPA.

What inspired you to choose your area of study? What is your dream job?

I was a foster parent for many years and met children who'd been through a really rough time in their lives. I chose the criminal justice program with a focus in cybercrime in hopes to one day help combat the global issue of human trafficking. As I mentioned earlier, I love learning. I wanted to learn the different computer languages, how to protect computer systems and how to help companies recover from attacks. I feel I would be an asset to either a government entity or a large corporation. I believe that having the knowledge of both criminal justice and cybercrime will help me afford a greater number of opportunities once I graduate. I don't yet know exactly what my dream job will be, but I do know it will be in helping others.

Who at SNHU (professor, coach, advisor, etc.) has been the biggest influence on your college experience? What lessons did that person teach you?

I've had many amazing encounters with SNHU professionals. One of my biggest influencers would have to be my Academic Advisor Andrea Jutras. She has been beyond supportive and communicative! She got just as excited as I was when I competed in a cyber challenge put on by USCC. When I was accepted into USCC's 2023 virtual cyber summer camp, she cheered me on yet again. She's been there when I needed her and has been an amazing support person! She helped me believe that I can do this and succeed. She has cheered for me in both my personal life and college life. I'm very thankful to have her for advice on courses and just in general. Thank you Andi for your time and support!

In what ways have you been involved at SNHU (campus organizations, job, sports, etc.)?

I've not been an active member of SNHU student clubs, sports, etc. just yet. I've been involved with other outside entities for the last few months. All my children will be attending school this fall, so I should have more time then to be able to join and participate in clubs and organizations.

What do you find most challenging? How do you deal with this?

The most challenging aspect I find as an online student would have to be the school-life balance. I make it work, though. Late nights are a given, as are some very early mornings and sometimes I just have to ask my husband to take the kids outside for a little while so that I can concentrate. Thankfully, he is supportive of my educational goals and is willing to do what needs to be done so I have the time to complete my studies. 

What are you proudest of?

I don't like to brag, but I'm proudest of having been able to maintain my 4.0 GPA for almost a year now. I've worked hard to learn the material that has been presented in my courses and I strive to do my very best. I knew that statistics was going to be my make-or-break course, and I managed to scrape by with an A. I'm officially on my courses that focus directly on my degree and I'm sticking to this until the end!

In what ways do you want/hope to stay involved as an SNHU graduate?

I'm not sure of all the ways I want to be involved after graduation as of yet. I know I definitely want to find a way to continue encouraging others to stick with their degree programs and not give up.  

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