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Name: Doug Dawson
Major (s): Business
Grad year: 2009
Hometown: Nashville
Why did you choose Belmont?
I chose Belmont for several reasons. One: There are many choices in adult education programs in the market, but none that offer the commitment to academic excellence, the learning environment and the reputation that Belmont has.
Why continue your education?
I decided to continue my education because of -- well, first and foremost, I’ve always been a fan of lifelong learning. I wanted to be a good example to those that I lead in the business community and to my family. Also just to round out an education process that I had started long ago and to really have the tools necessary to excel in the workforce and to rise into a leadership position.
What were some of the challenges you faced while you were an adult degree student?
Probably the biggest challenge is one that a lot of adult students might face, and that is the initial fear of coming back to school after many years and trying to assimilate into a traditional student environment and how you’re going to be accepted and perceived. Honestly, the faculty, the staff and the student body make that a very, very easy process, and because of that, it’s been a very enjoyable experience.
How did you cope with school and work?
Juggling the career and school at times is difficult, but it is a worthwhile endeavor. Things that you learn in this place are directly applicable to the work environment. The one thing I’ve really enjoyed here is truly the holistic approach to learning in that you’re not only developing -- in my case -- a business acumen, but there’s also the faith-based learning side of Belmont that has deepened my spiritual walk. I’ve always believed in being a well-rounded individual, and the education that is offered here at Belmont really achieves that.
How was the Adult Degree Program?
I think the things that have been most beneficial to me are the overall commitment to academic excellence that’s here at Belmont. You’ve got to work really hard -- especially if you are out there in the work environment, it requires a real commitment. So, I think coming out of this place, you have a higher level of discipline, you understand challenging schedules, how to juggle home and work and school. I think those are all very, very valuable assets as you go forward in life and in business.
How was your relationship with your professors?
The relationship with the professors here at Belmont is almost like that of working with a peer. The professors here understand with adult students that we respond better in the classroom with facilitation rather than lecture. The professors here understand that there’s a lot of experience in the room and that we are all professionals in our chosen fields out in the community. They’re very adept at pulling that information out of us, and I think it’s a real benefit to many of the traditional students in the classroom, because they not only get the academic side of the curriculum, but they also get some of the real world application.
What are plans post-graduation?
I’ll be entering the MBA program here at Belmont. From there, my hopes are to continue to grow in my professional capacity and at some point rise to the CEO level.
