“Studying at UoPeople has enabled me to balance my responsibilities as a single working mom,” Says Olga C.

Olga C.’s journey from a small town in Moldova to the vibrant streets of New York is a remarkable testament to her resilience and determination. A domestic violence survivor, she is a passionate educator pursuing a master’s degree in advanced teaching (M.ED.) at University of the People. Her story shows how challenges can shape a person’s path and lead to success. 

Growing up in Moldova, Olga encountered several obstacles. After graduating from high school, she enrolled in a double major in biology and chemistry didactics. She launched her teaching career by earning a master’s degree in chemistry teaching. She has earned several teaching licenses, including those for working with students with disabilities, general education for children from birth to 2nd grade, and chemistry for grades 7-12. Olga is fluent in five languages and teaches English as a New Language (ENL) at a reputable school.  

Olga actively participates in various international conferences for STEM teachers and regularly contributes research in chemistry teaching methods. She mentors others on modern classroom practices and conducts online training sessions for teachers based out of Moldova and Romania. With a desire to help students, she recently launched her own website and is currently working on a book titled “ABC of High School Chemistry – Your Essential Guide to Acing the Regent Exam.” Olga’s achievements reflect her strong commitment to education and her aspiration to make a difference in the lives of learners globally.  

As a single mother, Olga is determined to give a beautiful life to her two daughters. “After filing for divorce, I realized that I had the power to change my situation. This newfound motivation pushed me to invest in myself and my children, even facing financial challenges. Through my journey, I want to inspire other women facing adversity,” she shares.     

She discovered UoPeople by chance while discussing her academic ambitions with a close friend. A Facebook post about the university got her interested. “Intrigued by the low-cost option, I reached out to the admissions team and began my educational journey here. Half of my previous credits were transferred smoothly to UoPeople. The transfer experience was both easy and well-guided. The supportive environment made me confident enough to recommend the university to friends and my students, proving that it is a great choice for anyone seeking higher education.”  

Studying at UoPeople has enabled Olga to balance her responsibilities as a single working mom. She enjoys the flexible pace of the courses and manages her time efficiently. “In addition to my studies, I teach chemistry at a high school in New York and work as an ABA therapist, providing early intervention services. This busy life may seem overwhelming, but I always find joy in reading fiction when I have some free time. My ability to juggle multiple roles demonstrates that dedication and hard work can lead to success,” she shares enthusiastically. 

Olga’s journey and her zeal to transform her life is a powerful reminder of the strength found in determination. As a university, we are proud of her accomplishments and wish her all the best for her future.