If given an opportunity, Maia Amato is going to make the most of it.
Kent State University provided Amato with opportunities from the time she was a student at Wellsville High School, and the university continues to do so as she prepares for graduate studies.
Amato began her journey with Kent State University through the College Credit Plus program on Columbiana County’s East Liverpool and Salem campuses. She graduated from high school in 2019 with enough credits to begin college as a sophomore.
In 2020, she earned an associate degree in business and will graduate this summer with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
Because of the network created through the Kent State Regional Campus System, Amato discovered opened doors — and opportunities.
“With the help of my advisor, I was able to earn my Kent State degree by taking classes at five of the regional campuses. This made it easy to complete my degree on time with the flexible options,” she said. “I was able to keep a part-time job and have a full schedule of classes.”
Like many young adults, Amato maintains a busy schedule outside of the classroom. She works as a legal secretary and paraprofessional at a local elementary school and serves as a member of the Wellsville Village Council.
Through online classes and enhanced classroom technology, Kent State’s Regional Campus System allows students to stay close to their homes and workplaces while taking classes and earning degrees. Students can register for classes offered at any of the regional campuses that fit into their schedules and program requirements.
“I would definitely recommend the Regional Campus System to someone considering Kent State,” Amato said. “It’s the best of both worlds. You get your classes, and you can stay home and work. It is great!" - Maia Amato, Kent State senior
As Amato pointed out, the lower tuition rates at regional campuses also make earning a college degree affordable.
“I’m going to earn my degree debt free,” she said.
She also preferred the smaller-sized classes and opportunities for more personalized attention from her instructors.
“Online or in the classroom, I never had a professor who wasn’t helpful or who didn’t try to make it the best experience possible for us,” Amato said. “The high-quality faculty and academic programs helped create a road map for my future.”
After she earns her bachelor’s degree, Amato is not stopping. In fact, she has already been accepted into the MBA program at Kent State and will begin classes this fall.
“My classes for my bachelor’s degree have prepared me for my classes in the master’s program — and it’s been an easy transition,” Amato said. “The Regional Campus System was definitely a great place to build personal connections … because everyone is like family and they really want to push you to do your best and get you to go farther.
“It’s so true. From here, anywhere is possible!”
Contact:
Tina Smith, tsmit170@kent.edu
Kent State Columbiana