Duane Powell
Project Manager
Organizational Communication Student

My job as a Project Manager requires me to point people in the right direction. I must provide clear direction while creatively motivating and influencing team attitudes in support of a common, higher goal. This mindset makes a difference not only in my work environment, but in the way I live my life. In order to sharpen my motivational skills to make a difference in both the personal and professional lives of those around me, I decided to finish my bachelor’s degree.

Previously, I had experienced several less-than-ideal traditional undergraduate experiences at colleges in Michigan and Ohio. I found myself feeling stifled in a theory-based, dull environment, and I couldn’t see the big picture of how my learning mattered in real life.

I decided to leave my studies for awhile, and I went on to serve in various positions including radio disc jockey, optics materials manager, code enforcement officer, and juvenile corrections officer. While these varied positions broadened my horizons, I realized that the key ingredient missing from each environment was meaningful communication. I knew that I couldn’t foster a collaborative environment or really make a difference in the world without the credentials to back it up. So I decided to complete my bachelor’s degree in Organizational Communication from Franklin.

My Franklin experience has been fantastic. Along with the convenience and affordability aspects Franklin offers, the classroom experience makes each session time well spent! I’m learning alongside my peers–experienced professionals who are also serious about their studies. The faculty members bring real-life experience to the classroom, and I can use what I learn in my courses the very next day at work! Working in this hands-on, highly interactive environment helps me retain knowledge and earn high grades.

My college experience at Franklin has been a huge benefit to my family. My wife, Patricia, appreciates the investment I’m making in my career and fully supports my efforts. My son, Devin, sees me as an inspiration to do well in his own schoolwork. If I can get A’s while going to school and working full time, he can excel also.

With the support of my family, my classmates and my instructors, I know I will be able to use my learning to make an impact in the world. My dream is to work with high school kids, and to go beyond basic curriculum to help them learn real-life skills. This small contribution can make a huge difference in the lives of students and their parents, and will impact the entire world for the better.