Student Spotlight: Meghann Shalosky, AAS in Early Childhood Care & Education

During her time at the University of Cincinnati, Meghann Shalosky has accomplished things she never thought possible. From earning her degree as a full-time teacher to studying abroad in Italy, she’s been able to have the full college experience as an online learner.

Through UC’s online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Care & Education, Meghann has been able to further her education without giving up her career as a preschool teacher at Head Start. 

Before graduating this winter, Meghann took the time to speak with us about her experience as an online learner and how she chose UC’s program.

Meghann’s Bearcat journey began at an annual Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) conference. While there, she stopped by UC’s booth and met Professor Kathleen Bryan, the previous coordinator of UC’s online Early Childhood Education (ECE) program.

When Meghann paused to introduce herself to Professor Bryan, they quickly connected over their passion for nature-based education, a form of learning that centers immersion in outdoor settings with regional flora and fauna.

“Kathleen took the time to really get to know me, my story, and what I was looking for in a program,” Meghann said.  

This conversation came at the perfect time. Meghann, several years into her preschool teaching career, had been searching “high and low” for an online ECE degree program. She hadn’t found anything that would work with her schedule as a full-time educator, not until she discovered UC’s online program.  

“Kathleen explained how UC’s program supported working teachers and valued the experience of Head Start educators, answered all my questions, and showed the same genuine passion for early childhood education that I have,” Meghann said. “I knew that someone that loved ECE as much as I do would only ever be a part of a worthwhile program!”

Although it was a chance encounter, it sealed the deal. Meghann decided to apply to UC, and she hasn’t regretted it for a second. 

"I think people might be surprised by just how flexible and connected an online program can feel.” For Meghann, these connections have been the most meaningful part of her UC Online experience.

“I never felt lonely or like I was going through college by myself,” she continued. “Even though I wasn’t physically on campus, I still felt like I was part of a community and had people supporting me along the way.” 

Often the small moments made the biggest impression: the "little personal touches,” as Meghann called them. For example, Professor Bryan always remembered her, whether they connected virtually or in-person.

“She continued to take the time to get to know me, encourage me, and support my goals.” 

UC’s staff also offered crucial support along the way, whether it came from Meghann’s academic advisor or other student resource offices. Even as an online student, Meghann knew that help was available every step of the way, and it didn’t require any on-campus visits. 

Like many adult or nontraditional students, Meghann entered UC’s program with a unique perspective: she already had years of professional experience under her belt.   

Another meaningful aspect of her experience at UC? Her instructors understood the challenges of navigating school and work simultaneously. Plus, rather than seeing her teaching career as a burden, Meghann’s professors recognized the knowledge she already brings to the table.

“My instructors respected my knowledge and experience while still challenging me to grow, reflect, and learn more. That has allowed me to succeed academically in ways I’m incredibly proud of. UC has made me feel supported not only as a student, but as an educator and a person.” 

When asked about the flexibility of online learning, Meghann questioned whether people know what it entails in many cases.

"I think people sometimes assume that ‘flexible’ means sacrificing the quality of your education,” she added. “That definitely wasn’t my experience at UC.”

For Meghann, flexibility meant being able to finish her degree on her own schedule. Without required class meetings, Meghann was able to complete her coursework when it made the most sense for her. Some weeks, it was in the evenings after work; other times, it had to wait until the weekend.  

Being an online student and full-time educator isn’t without its challenges, but it’s also had its benefits. She’s been encouraged to connect her coursework to her preschool teaching, allowing her to immediately apply what she’s learning in the real world.

When it came time to complete in-classroom assignments and observations, Meghann didn’t even have to find a new classroom. Her own preschool classroom was the perfect setting already.  

“As a full-time teacher, there was no realistic way for me to take time off work to observe in another classroom,” she said. “UC recognized that I was already working in the field and used that to benefit my education rather than make it an obstacle. I always felt like they genuinely wanted to help make my education work within my life, rather than expecting me to completely rearrange my life around school.” 

Online learners might not always think of themselves when it comes to “traditional” college experiences, including studying abroad. But these opportunities can still be possible, even for students juggling online school, work, and family.

In Meghann’s case, UC Online helped her achieve a lifelong goal: studying abroad in Reggio Emilia, Italy.  

“From the moment I first learned about the program to the moment I returned home, I felt supported by people at UC,” she reflected. “They helped me navigate the process, encouraged me to pursue the opportunity, and made what once felt like a far-off dream actually happen.”

Studying abroad made an impact on Meghann both professionally and personally. She described it as “transformational” to learn more about the Reggio Emilia educational approach in the place where it was first created.  

Along with strengthening her passion for ECE, the experience also inspired her to step out of her comfort zone and chase after her goals, even those that seem impossible.

Meghann credits UC for making her dream a reality. Although scholarships made studying abroad financially possible, it was the support of her professors and advisors that made her feel as though she could study abroad “as an online student—especially as a 34-year-old teacher.” 

When asked for her advice, Meghann encouraged other educators considering online school to find the right fit.

“Before UC, I had tried other programs that described themselves as flexible for working adults, but in practice, they just didn’t fit my life,” she said. “UC was the first program I found that truly allowed me to complete my work on my own schedule each week while still giving me a high-quality education and courses I enjoyed."

Going back to school as a working adult is never easy. Meghann’s story shows that it’s possible without giving up the career and life you’ve already built.

UC’s online Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Care & Education program is designed for educators interested in advancing their careers and expanding their teaching toolkit. With concentrations available in Preschool, Infant & Toddler, Nature-Based Early Learning, and Administration, you can pursue the option most aligned with your individual goals.

Unsure if online learning is right for you? Connect with us today and explore how UC’s programs can fit into your life. Your Enrollment Services Advisor is ready to talk through your options and help you start the process!