Lisa-Marie Ortega’s journey to earning her degree at Post University is one of resilience, determination, and a deep passion for serving others. After being just a few credits away from completing her undergraduate degree two decades ago, life took an unexpected turn. A series of family tragedies forced her to leave school, and over the years, she found herself facing professional roadblocks due to the lack of a degree. But she never lost sight of her dreams. Determined to take control of her future, Ortega enrolled in Post’s online program, where she not only completed her Bachelor of Science in Human Services but immediately continued to her Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree.
A Long Road Back to Education
Reflecting on her decision to return, Ortega shares, “In September 2020, after spending six months working from home due to COVID, I found myself reflecting during a conversation with a friend. I realized I hadn’t taken full advantage of that time I could have gone back to finish my undergraduate degree. Believing the pandemic was nearing its end, I worried I might never get that kind of opportunity again. I knew I wanted to return to school online but wasn’t familiar with accelerated programs.”
Though she had considered going back to school before, she always found reasons to hold herself back. But this time was different.
“My nephew had recently graduated from Post University, and I knew several friends who had attended as well. Motivated, I did some quick research and to my surprise, within 24 hours of that conversation, I had already started the enrollment process and was connecting with multiple members of Post’s staff and faculty.”
Overcoming Doubts and Embracing the Challenge
Returning to school after a 20-year gap was daunting. Ortega feared she couldn’t keep up, especially alongside students much younger than herself.
“Being over 40, I couldn’t help but wonder if I could keep up, especially knowing I’d be learning alongside students half my age, many of whom had just come out of high school, still sharp in their academic routines. I questioned whether I had the stamina, focus, and time management skills to balance school with my other responsibilities. More than anything, I was afraid of starting something and not seeing it through.“
But she soon realized that her years of life experience were an asset.
“I reminded myself that my life experience was an asset, not a setback. My years of working, raising a family, and running businesses gave me a level of discipline and determination that I might not have had when I was younger. I wasn’t going back to school to prove something. I was doing it for me, my future, and as a powerful example for my child, Julian.”
A major turning point in her academic journey was joining the Online Student Government Association (OSGA) at Post University. This experience gave her a sense of belonging and access to faculty, deans, and like-minded students.
“Being part of OSGA expanded my network and reinforced my sense of belonging and purpose within the university. I was no longer just a student trying to get by I actively shaped the student experience.”
Balancing Work, Family, and Studies
For Ortega, balancing work, family, and education required meticulous planning and commitment.
“It wasn’t easy, but I leaned heavily on planning and time management. I set clear schedules for work, school, and family time, and keeping a calendar that broke my day into blocks helped me stay organized. I also communicated with Julian so he understood when I needed to focus on school. His support, along with the motivation to be a role model for him, kept me going. I promised him that once my degrees were finished, my FULL and maximum attention would be on him.”
She was also surprised at how much easier the coursework felt compared to her younger years.
“What surprised me most about returning to school as an adult learner was how much my life experience enriched my learning. The theories and concepts in human services weren’t just abstract ideas. I could immediately connect them to real situations I’ve encountered in my work and community involvement. It made the coursework feel more relevant and impactful.”
Leading and Serving in Human Services
Ortega’s educational journey has had a direct impact on her career. She is the Executive Director at Transforming Lives, a day program dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
“In my role, I oversee the design and implementation of programs that empower our participants, working closely with families and staff to ensure we maintain a nurturing, inclusive environment where everyone is respected and supported.”
She was offered the position of Executive Director while still pursuing her degree, a milestone she never anticipated achieving so soon. “The very purpose of obtaining my MPA was to work toward an Executive Director role so to step into this position before even completing my degree was mind-blowing.”
Her work extends beyond her job. She founded the Get Certified Initiative, INC, which provides life-saving CPR and emergency preparedness training to underserved populations, including teens and individuals with disabilities.
“I firmly believe that everyone, regardless of age or ability, deserves access to these critical skills. Through this program, I’ve worked to create a welcoming, hands-on learning environment, ensuring that participants feel empowered and confident in their ability to respond in an emergency.”
The Power of Online Learning
Ortega believes online learning played a crucial role in her success.
“Online learning teaches more than just the curriculum it builds time management, self-discipline, and digital communication skills, all crucial in human services and healthcare. It mirrors the reality of modern work, where virtual collaboration and independent problem-solving are part of the job.”
She advises those considering online education but feeling unsure, “I would tell them to focus on their ‘why.’ Online education can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when juggling work, family, and other responsibilities. But it becomes easier to push through the tough moments when you remind yourself why you’re pursuing it, whether to build a better future for your family, advance your career, or make a difference in your community.”
She also emphasizes the importance of persistence. “Remove quitting as an option. There will be days when the workload feels heavy, or life throws unexpected challenges your way, but instead of asking yourself if you can keep going, shift your mindset and ask, ‘How will I get through this?’ That small change in perspective keeps you solution-focused and resilient.”
Looking Ahead to a Career in Human Services
Ortega has big plans for the future. She hopes to continue growing Transforming Lives and making a lasting impact in her community. But right now, her primary focus is on her son’s education.
“As for my continued education, my focus has shifted towards Julian’s education. While I’ve accomplished a lot in my academic journey, my priority now is to support him as he navigates his path, ensuring he has the opportunities and guidance to thrive.”
She offers this encouragement for anyone hesitating to return to school: “It’s never too late. Your life experience is a strength, not a setback. Every challenge you’ve faced has prepared you to succeed not just in school but in the work you’ll do afterward. You belong in those classrooms, virtual or not.”
And when she reflects on how far she’s come? “I feel AMAZING!! It hasn’t been easy, but every late-night study and assignment I submitted brought me closer to the person I want to be. More than anything, I’m proud that my son, Julian, sees me push forward. I hope it shows him that learning and growing never stops.”
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