COVID-19 can’t stop doctorate dreams

“At the beginning of 2020, I was excited to be in the last semester for my doctorate at Houston Baptist University. I was finalizing my dissertation to present in March after spring break, and looking forward to graduating in May. Then, during spring break, COVID-19 hit. Everyone was stopped in their tracks. Our campus closed, and students weren’t allowed to return.

“I was nervous that I would not be graduating after three years of research and writing my dissertation. I could not believe this was happening, and that I had no control over it. Thankfully, my dissertation chair agreed that I should move forward with my defense via Zoom. Thank God for technology. I was the first one in the history of HBU to defend my dissertation virtually. I was elated that my dream of achieving the highest level of education was near. My hope in humanity was restored, and I received my doctor of education degree in May as scheduled.

“With all that said, I encourage everyone who is contemplating pursuing their educational goals to take the first step and register for college. Times are tough out there, and many are being laid off. It’s time to find a career you have always wanted. A degree will open so many more doors of opportunity, and you will feel accomplished. As Marian Wright Edelman said, ‘Education is for improving the lives of others and for leaving your community and world better than you found it.’

“So do not let COVID-19 deter you from following your dreams. It almost stopped me for a few weeks. But determination and preseverance won out.”

— Chris Trevino

Chris is a humanities professor at Lone Star College-Houston North Greenspoint. She hopes to move into an administrative role in the post-COVID-19 world.