Meet: Indigo Abell
by
PSN Team 
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Program:
Master of Education in Behavior Analysis
Expected Graduation Date:
December 2022
Background: I am 27 years old, a wife and a mom to three beautiful daughters. I am originally from Louisville, KY but now reside in the Northern Kentucky/Greater Cincinnati area. I am currently a full-time student, business owner and mom. Once finished with school I plan to pursue becoming a BCBA and one day opening my own practice.
What motivated you to seek your Master’s in Behavior Analysis?
My daughter is a big motivation in pursuing my Master’s in Behavior Analysis. She is non-verbal and I knew to be the best advocate for her I needed to learn the proper steps into doing that. Also, being a young mom to a special needs child I have learned that not that many people in my generation are that educated or have had bad experiences finding the right early interventions for their child. It takes a village and I want to be a part of that village for other families like mine.
Why did you select UC, and are you happy with your choice?
I chose UC because after doing research about the school and the program I thought it was the best program for me. I am so happy I chose this program. From the Advisors, the professors, the TA’s and even my classmates, they have been such a huge help in this journey.
How did you handle the school, work, life balance while in the program?
A lot of praying! Being in a graduate program, along with being a mom is hard and it keeps you busy. Especially when you have multiple kids and one with special needs. I thank God I was able to juggle it all and still find some free time to just breathe and get a clear mind. My husband was also a tremendous help especially when it came to taking the kids for a little just so I can focus on schoolwork. I also think having somewhat of a schedule helped me have a balance to everything, so I am not overwhelmed.
What is a favorite memory or proud moment you had during your time in the FnBA program?
My favorite memory is when my spring semester of 2022 I went through a rough time and when I expressed the things that were happening to one of my professors, they went beyond to make sure I was okay and provided me with resources that could help me in that situation. They did not even mention the assignments I missed until they knew I was well taken care of and in the best mental space. I will always remember that and be grateful because I know there are people who genuinely care at UC, and they provide many resources to help me or anyone else.
For someone who may have never taken an online course before, how would you describe the experience?
Online courses are amazing! They are flexible and the need of convince is at all time high. Especially with Covid and everything else going on in the world. So many people from all over the world are in my classes and we get to connect, which is cool. You get the same amount of learning materials as well as access to anything on campus just like a student who attends classes on campus.
Do you have any advice for future students looking to go back to school?
Make sure the program you are looking into is right for you and your career goals. Make sure you have the support, especially if you are a parent and don‘t be afraid to ask for help. Another thing, make sure to have a good routine so you can balance school, work and life.
Anything else you would like to add?
For parents who have children with special needs who want to go back to school or even just to find the balance in parenting and life itself. Just know you are not alone! There are many great resources out there, wonderful support groups and so much more for you, your child, and your family. It is not easy, and I am guilty of always stressing about my child’s future, which I am sure we all do. However, when you start to just enjoy those milestones that they are achieving and when you find the perfect resources it not only takes the step in the right direction, but it also just makes it less stressful. Do not be hard on yourself. You and your child are perfect in every way!
Meet Three Special College Students
https://www.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/college-is-now-an-option-for-all-preparing-and-expanding-opportunities-for-students-with-id-go-to-college/
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This post originally appeared on our September/October 2022 Magazine
