Mother. Wife. Student. Teacher. Veteran. Coach. Shellie Moore is all of the above. A true embodiment of a non-traditional student, Shellie knows a thing or two about multitasking.  It just goes to show that life experience can help you go even farther when it comes to your education.

Fellow student Katie Witherspoon recognized Shellie’s hard work when she nominated her for this award. Katie says that “even with all these challenges, Michelle was initiated into Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education.” Kelly also mentioned how Shellie’s dedication to her family and job does not come easy with a full load of graduate courses.

Shelley came to UNCW with the experience of all these responsibilities already under her belt. Shellie served in the US Army for six years, and her experiences helped her become a trained Spanish linguist. As a track coach at Whiteville High School For 4 years, she shared her knowledge with students as well.

The 39-year-old is graduating this semester with a Masters of Science in Instructional Technology as well as a Post Graduate Certificate in Hispanic Studies. Maintaining a 3.7 GPA while working full time as a Spanish teacher to support her family has not been easy.

Shellie credits her success to her professors, and would like to thank them for helping her along the way. “All of my professors have not only cared about my academics, but I feel they genuinely cared about my long drive, my three small children, and my job. I’ve been blessed with really awesome professors. I couldn’t thank just one,” Shellie stated.

After graduating in December, Shellie would like to continue working with her present employer, Cape Fear Center of Inquiry. She hopes to utilize all of her degrees to enhance her lessons. Shellie also hopes to continue her education in the future by working toward a masters in Spanish and then a doctorate in Education.

Outside of school, work and family responsibilities, Shellie enjoys playing on the computer and reading. She loves spy and suspense novels, and is a big fan of music.

Shellie’s advice to other non-traditional students: “If you want to succeed and believe that you can, you will. Be honest and up front with your professors, they are humans, they probably have families, and most importantly, they’re professionals. They want you to succeed. You’re never too old to learn!”

-------------------------------------------------

The Seahawk Perch congratulates Shellie Moore as our September 2006 Non-Trad of the Month. If you would like to learn how to nominate yourself or someone you know for this award, CLICK HERE.