Janice Kudzus '03

Janice is an Inside Account Supervisor for Aero Electronics in Warrensville Heights, Ohio. She graduated from Hiram College in 2003 with a major in business management. She earned her MBA from Myers University in 2005.

My years at Hiram College have been better than I could ever imagine. I originally started schooling at Hiram in order to fulfill requirements for my associate's degree at Lakeland Community College. When I began at Hiram, I intended to take only one or two classes, complete my associate's degree at Lakeland, and attend another four-year college. My mind was set on other schools that were less expensive. Within two semesters at Hiram, I knew that it was the place for me.

I cannot say enough good things about Hiram College or even begin to give it or the professors and staff the credit they deserve. From the beginning, everyone there has been nothing less than extremely helpful. From the Weekend College office staff to professors to students, each person gave me direction and made me feel comfortable with my transition. Within weeks, I felt as though I was completely welcomed into the environment. Almost every person that works at Hiram knew my name and what events were occurring in my life. If I forgot to do something with scheduling, the Weekend College staff reminded me to make sure I got what I needed. The Hiram College experience was nothing like I had before--even the Dean knew my name. That was the last thing you would expect at most other colleges.

The grades that I have earned at Hiram College have improved dramatically since my time at Lakeland Community College. I give full credit to the way that the classes are structured, the professors, and the environment itself. Most of the classes that I have been in have been very small, giving everyone the opportunity to speak their thoughts and ask questions. I remember many debates in classes because students were passionate about subjects and the instructors pushed us to speak our minds. When I had a question about anything in class or from the material, I had many ways to find answers. Each of the professors gave out their home phone numbers and told us to call them with any questions. There were a few professors that spent a good amount of time on the phone with me when I did not understand something and for that I am forever grateful. Not one of the professors at Hiram College made me feel like any question I had was petty and they were always helpful.

Since I have been a full-time worker through all of my college years I understand the dedication and motivation that it takes to get a degree. Each of the students that attended the Weekend College had families and jobs and was working his or her hardest to obtain their degrees. I feel that I fit in much better with these people than I would have at any traditional college. The Weekend College at Hiram was a blessing in disguise to me and I could not have asked for a better program to be involved in.

I initially began college with the hopes of obtaining my bachelor's degree. I never anticipated the experience I have had at Hiram College. Hiram College has molded me into a better person--more intelligent, professional, and appreciative of what a good business can be. I recommend Hiram's Weekend College to everyone that I meet because it has surpassed my expectations of a college. I am glad that I have had the Hiram College experience.