Full Breakdown
Ashley Crawford’s Path to a Liberal Studies Degree: Balancing Work, Family, and Community
5/8/2026, 1:32:57 AM
Graduation Milestone: BA in Liberal Studies
On May 7 2026, Ashley Crawford, 36, of Bayonne, New Jersey, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies from Montclair State University, concentrating in Humanities with a minor in Ancient Mediterranean Civilizations. The online program let her maintain full-time work and family duties.
Early Educational Interruptions and Return
Crawford entered college at 17 but withdrew after one year because tuition was unaffordable. She worked in automotive sales, finance, and customer service before a full-time property-management role. In 2013 she earned an associate degree, yet continued to prioritize employment over coursework.
Academic Advising and Flexible Program Design
In summer 2025 Crawford met Montclair State advisor Alicia Tucker. Tucker suggested CLEP exams and arranged 18 credits for the first semester and 19 for the second. The online program’s flexibility let Crawford study while working full-time, bartending part-time, and serving as an Esteemed Loyal Knight at her Elks Lodge.
Quantitative Overview of Coursework
Crawford earned three CLEP credits, completed 37 credit hours in two semesters, and made the dean’s list. She joined the Tau Sigma honor society for transfer students and Tri-Alpha for first-generation graduates, combining associate-degree credits, CLEP, and intensive coursework.
Demonstrating Nontraditional Success
Crawford’s path shows how flexible online programs and targeted advising can support students balancing work, parenting, and community roles. She plans to sit for the LSAT and apply to law school for the 2027 fall term, showing that nontraditional routes can lead to advancement.
University’s Official Position on Flexibility
Montclair State University says the Liberal Studies program targets students unable to pause other commitments. Officials note advisors tailor course loads and promote CLEP to let learners continue education without halting other responsibilities.
Implications for Higher Education
Crawford’s achievement highlights demand for degree pathways that accommodate working adults. Institutions that combine online delivery, credit-by-exam options, and personalized advising can attract students who might otherwise forgo higher education, potentially expanding enrollment and diversifying graduate demographics.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It represents perseverance, growth and proving to myself that I could stay committed to something even through the hardest seasons of life.” — Ashley Crawford, Graduate
- “I made the decision that I was going to finish my bachelor’s no matter what it took.” — Ashley Crawford, Graduate
- “She was like, ‘This is going to be rough, but you know what, we’re going to get it done.’” — Alicia Tucker, Academic Advisor, Montclair State University
- “My husband stood beside me through long days and even longer nights, always encouraging me and reminding me why I started,” — Ashley Crawford, Graduate
