Robin Marple’s path to Arkansas Tech University was non-traditional in every way possible.
When Marple graduated high school, she went to work at Pizza Hut, working her way up to manager after seven years. She dabbled in photography and then changed careers again to work in accounting for the next 20 years until she became “sick of numbers.”
Unsure of her next move, Marple began substitute teaching at the urging of her aunts, one of whom was a librarian, and the other of whom was a teacher. “I love kids,” said Marple. “And I loved being in the classroom with the kids.”
After online research and rave reviews from her oldest daughter, who was an ATU student in the Department of Communication and Journalism, Marple enrolled at ATU for secondary English education.
“I love English and I feel like it’s dying off,” said Marple. “Our kids nowadays; they do not know how to write properly, speak properly and appropriately, or how to use grammar. Our digital world has come to the ‘LOL’ and shooting a smiley face.”
Entering college as a non-traditional student can present its own set of challenges, but Marple took it in stride. For Marple, the classrooms were welcoming and the class discussions were some of her favorite experiences. “I love the way people think and the different perspectives,” said Marple.
Right away, Marple found a mentor in Nancy Cox, instructor of English. “I can’t praise her enough,” said Marple “Anytime I needed anything or just an ear or a sounding board, I went to her.”
Dr. Diane Gleason, associate professor of history, was another faculty member who stood out to Marple. According to Marple, she did not enjoy history in high school, but Gleason made her love it. Marple also enjoyed the two classes she had with Dr. Lynn Walsh, associate professor of curriculum and instruction.
During her time at ATU, Marple received consistent support from her husband. Her father also played an active role in her education, calling her often to check on her grades and assignments. Marple credits the support of her family and the life-long friendships with people in the program for helping her succeed.
Now that she has completed her bachelor’s degree, Marple hopes to get established in a teaching position soon. She says she can see herself coming back to ATU to pursue a master’s degree in the future.
“There were times when it was overwhelming, but I got through it,” said Marple. “It was a wonderful journey.”
