Degrees of Inspiration: UNO Student Pursues Academic Passions While Balancing Family, Full-Time Career

Pamela Ernst is always proud of her Christmas cards, but this one is extra special. It shows three University of Nebraska students smiling in front of a tree: her son Ryan, her daughter Madalyn, and her.

Getting her college degree wasn’t just about getting a diploma – for Ernst, it was about showing her kids that dreams can be achieved at any age.

“I really wanted to be like an example to them.” Ernst said.

In December 2024, Ernst will join a cohort of more than 100,000 Mavericks who can proudly claim themselves as alumni. It’s an exciting achievement for anyone – but it’s especially sweet for someone who once felt that college was out of reach.

Ernst credits the University of Nebraska Omaha’s asynchronous online political science program for making her courses so accessible. With a full-time career, two kids, a house, hobbies, and a rescue dog named Romeo to care for – she has a pretty full plate. Online courses allowed her to pursue her passion for political science without requiring a commute to campus.

After graduation, Ernst plans to continue her studies. She’s a part of the Fast Track Integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s Program in the Department of Political Science, so soon she’ll be able to add a Master of Science to her list of achievements.

“I'm just really passionate about politics,” Ernst said. “And it's so fascinating to me.”

As she walks across the stage this December, Pamela Ernst won’t just be celebrating her degree – she'll be celebrating the persistence and patience it took for her to get to this place.

This holiday season, as she unwinds from her studies and celebrates the season with her family, that college-themed Christmas card will hold even more meaning. It’s not just a photo of smiling faces and university pride: it’s a portrait of a mother showing her children that they can follow their passions and achieve their dreams, no matter their life stage.