Spotlight on Allison Brown Johnson

Allison Brown Johnson
Management Information Sciences Major

Why did you choose Franklin University?
As an international student – I’m from Jamaica – I looked at the whole package of what Franklin offered. I liked the Computer Science programs, the inexpensive tuition, the evening classes, and how easily my associate's degree credits transferred from Hocking College. I earned my associate degree in Management Information Systems before coming to Franklin to major in Computer Science. Now I am switching to Management Information Sciences.

Why did you decide to pursue a college education in the United States?
My goal was to come to America to get a good education. I came by myself, which was a big step. I’d never left my mother’s home before! My mother is worried about me, of course, the way all mothers are when their chicks leave the nest. But I am fine and loving my experiences here.

What is it like to be an international student at Franklin?
Getting used to and integrating into a new culture was a little difficult at first. Speaking the right way was a challenge for me, too. I was raised to speak in British fashion, “Queen’s English,” which is quite proper. In the United States, the English is more informal with many colloquialisms. I have to pay attention to make certain I understand what is being said.

What kind of commitments do you have in addition to school?
I am employed by JPMorgan Chase. I conduct research and work in a computer lab. It’s a great learning experience with a great organization.

How did you feel about being an adult student?
Like anything worthwhile, it takes commitment. But it’s manageable.

Any thoughts about Franklin’s learning process?
It’s an entirely different experience than the traditional classroom. I like how we have the opportunity to write papers to prove what we’re learning and not just depend on midterm tests. I like being able to check grades online to stay focused on my GPA. Plus, the Student Learning Center (SLC) tutoring is awesome – really, really helpful. I recommend it highly.

I also enjoy how much we work in groups at Franklin. It can be a challenge because you have to learn how to deal with different personalities and varying levels of contribution to each project, but that’s what the real world is like.

What are your career ambitions?
Upon graduation, I want to become an assistant analyst. This means I will need to combine effective communication skills with computer-programming skills in order to design a system to meet the requirements of clients. I don’t want to be labeled as a programmer, which is why I am switching my major from Computer Science to Management Information Sciences.

What advice would you give to another international student considering attending Franklin?
You need to understand that Franklin is not a traditional university with campus housing, so use the ISS office to get housing information. Take advantage of the free tutoring services and network in the classrooms to help locate jobs and get recommendations. Oh, yes – and be ready for snow! Ohio has lots of snow in the winter! Wear gloves and cover your face!