For many students, the path to a degree isn’t linear—and for Jenae Thompson, that journey came full circle in the most meaningful way. Jenae first attended the University of Oklahoma in the late 2000s as a sociology major. But as a young mother balancing full-time work, school, and a newborn, the demands became overwhelming.
“I had my baby, I was working full time, going to school full time—it was just too much,” she recalls. “I couldn’t get across that finish line.”
Like many adult learners, Jenae stepped away to focus on her growing responsibilities. Over time, she built a career, launched businesses, and gained valuable professional experience. Still, one challenge remained: finishing her degree.
“Every time I tried to advance, it came back to that missing piece—not because I wasn’t capable, but because I didn’t have the degree,” she says.
Years later, while working at OU, Jenae discovered the College of Professional and Continuing Studies (PACS)—and everything changed. With more than 140 credit hours already completed, she realized she could finish her degree in just one semester.
“When I found out, I thought—why didn’t I look into this sooner?” she says.
In May 2025, Jenae earned her Bachelor of Arts in Integrative Studies. That same month, her daughter—the very reason she had paused her education—graduated from high school.
“It was a full-circle moment,” she says. “The reason I left became the reason I came back.”
Now 42 and pursuing a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership through PACS, Jenae continues to balance a full life—alongside a new professional chapter as Senior Project Manager of Strategic Initiatives in the Clinical Trials Office at Stephenson Cancer Center. Her approach is simple: be intentional.
“I had to be very deliberate with my time,” she explains. “Early mornings, lunch breaks in the library, blocking off time to focus—I made it work.” Unlike her earlier college experience, Jenae found PACS to be flexible, accessible, and designed for working adults.
"If I had to drive 30 or 40 minutes to campus after work, I don’t know if I could’ve done it,” she says. “The accessibility made all the difference.”
Beyond academics, Jenae says the program strengthened her leadership skills—especially her ability to advocate for herself.
“In an online environment, you have to speak up,” she explains. “You have to communicate clearly, ask for what you need, and justify it. That’s leadership.” Those skills now carry over directly into her professional role, where clear communication and strategic problem-solving are essential.
At 42, Jenae is proof that it’s never too late to pursue your goals. “You’re never too old to go back,” she says. “Everyone here genuinely wants you to succeed. If something feels like a barrier, talk to someone—there’s always a solution.” Her journey is more than a return to school—it’s a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of opportunity. “I just want people to know,” she adds, “it’s never too late.”
