ABSTRACT
After successfully ending the investigative process, I selected the best program of study that would be beneficial for my career. I reflected on the changes to my family dynamics and successfully achieved admission to the desired major. I began to adjust to the expectations that I anticipated and to immerse myself into the actual coursework of the program. I had taken on a new identity as a student while maintaining my work and family obligations. In retrospect, I can identify this stage as “consciously incompetent” (Beeler, 1991, p. 166) with regard to the academic requirements and challenges that were arrayed before me. In this chapter, I will describe and discuss advisement, enrollment, and rationale for pursuing the degree from both a personal perspective and from peer discussions.
