An Online Psychology Program from EOU Teaches Lisa MacPherson New Ways to Give and Receive Support
| 6 Min Read
With graduation still on the horizon, Lisa MacPherson is already using her Eastern Oregon University degree program to expand her impact on her family and community. Going back to school after a 30-year hiatus gave Lisa a sense of gratitude to the individuals who cheered her on during the journey. Engaging in the Bachelor of Science in Psychology program taught her new ways to give and receive support in her personal and professional pursuits.
Online Learning Support
Lisa began her Oregon psychology degree program in 2024 and anticipates graduating in 2027. After leaving school almost 30 years ago to serve as a stay-at-home mom, Lisa worried there might be issues with receiving transfer credit for her prior learning. But she was delighted with the seamless process and how the faculty made her feel included. She said, “Even before I became a student, the faculty was really warm. I felt like I belonged immediately. You can tell they truly want you to succeed.”
She was assigned an EOU Student Success Advisor whose role is to check in, ensure she’s updated with important information and assist her with registration each semester. She says he serves as an accessible person she can contact for help. “Alex has been fantastic. He’s another cheerleader on my journey.”
Another benefit of the program has been the opportunity to collaborate with classmates. Lisa appreciates the discussions and team assignments that have led her to share profound and vulnerable moments with her cohorts. “You know you’re with your people when you have found others who share your passions. I’ve become more social! Even through the online learning, I’m loving my experience,” she expressed.
Learning from industry-expert faculty has expanded her perspectives and made her path to success seem more straightforward and attainable. “I took a critical media studies class. Dr. Rocky was the professor. He’s incredible. He doesn’t talk down to you. He talks to you like you’re a person on the same level. My psychopathology professor was amazing. Her charismatic lectures really drew us in. She shared a lot of her personal experience as a clinical psychologist,” shared Lisa.
Support From Home
The thought of going back to school initially concerned Lisa because she knew she would need more support than she usually asks for. As a stay-at-home mom, she had gotten used to being everyone else’s support system and putting her own dreams aside. “Sometimes full-time moms put everyone else’s needs ahead of their own. When my daughter graduated from high school, I was able to evaluate what I really wanted to do at this point.”
She knew going back to school meant she would not be as readily available for her family. It would take sacrifice not only from her, but from those who heavily rely on her. But Lisa was delighted with their response. “They’ve had to step up in different ways. They’ve been so supportive and encouraging,” she said with delight. “I thought the most important thing I’ve ever done was raising my daughter, but now I can add that bettering myself and going back to learn is also what I’m most proud of.”
Plans For the Future
Lisa is confident that her academic journey will lead to a career that aligns with her aspirations. She believes that her engagement level has already helped open doors to new opportunities. “I feel like you get from your program what you give. If you are bringing passion, asking questions, and collaborating with students and faculty, you’re going to get the most out of it.”
The relevant coursework has empowered her to become a respected source of evidence-based advice for those around her. She said, “I have been able to use the skills that I’ve been learning to help my community. I talk to my neighbors and family about what they have going on and share things I’m learning. My daughter tells her friends things that I have taught her from my classes.”
Once she completes the program, Lisa plans to expand her impact. “I want to work as a clinical psychologist. I want to be a published author and motivational speaker. I’d love to have a podcast and mentor future students. So, I kind of want to do it all,” she admits.
Lisa is now less apprehensive about chasing her dreams. Earning the B.S. in Psychology from EOU has increased her confidence. She said, “In comparison to the person I was a year ago, I never anticipated such a substantial difference. I am deeply grateful for the academic journey I am on, the institution I attend, and everyone I have encountered along the way.”
She recommends EOU online programs to others seeking to change their current trajectory. “If anyone is on the fence about taking that step, I get it. I get how scary that can be. If you’re waiting for the right time in your life to go back to school, you’ll be waiting forever. You have to take that breath and go, and you will not be sorry that you did.”
Prepare To Support Your Community
Gain career-relevant skills in this growing field with Eastern Oregon University’s online psychology degree program. Explore a wide range of topics, including memory, sensory perception, psychological disorders, and how they influence social interaction. Industry-expert faculty will share mental health interviews, films and presentations to deepen your understanding. Tailor your degree by choosing one of two specialized tracks.
This affordable program has no on-campus requirements and allows you to transfer up to 135 credits, empowering you with a more convenient and accelerated path to career advancement. Earn your degree from our highly respected institution and complete the program ready for graduate studies or roles in human and social services, schools or rehabilitation centers. Utilize our career support services to aid in your job search.
As a graduate of this Bachelor of Science in Psychology online program, you will be able to:
- Read, discuss, design and carry out primary research in psychology
- Prepare and present professional research
- Evaluate research models and statistics
- Work with the two specialties of psychology: applied and experimental
- Understand each of the core branches of psychology
Eastern Oregon University offers a variety of health and science concentrations. View our options and choose the online program that best aligns with your goals.