IU Online student Sistine Dishon thought she had a lot of answers when she was younger. But now, she boasts that she is a completely different—and better—person, in large measure because of her Master of Liberal Studies from IU Online. “The greatest thing I’ve done with this degree program,” she says, “is learning things. And unlearning others.”
Why liberal studies? When she was working on her undergraduate degree in psychology, Dishon realized that her passion wasn’t science, but culture, philosophy, sociology, and communications. “Liberal studies are a big umbrella. They offer a diverse look into the complexity of people, offering endless possibilities. My program helps me not just see peoples’ differences, but celebrate them. In our world today, this is crucial.”
Why IUO?
Dishon earned her BS in Psychology from IU Kokomo. When it came time to choose an online program, there was no question. “IU was wonderful. I chose IU Online because of the amazing experience I had as an undergraduate. There was never a thought of going anywhere else. IU Online was the obvious choice,” she says.
And when it comes to fitting classes around her full-time job running a crochet business, Dishon says it’s not a problem. “The subjects are so compelling it doesn’t feel like studying. It’s so gripping. I’m loving every second of it.”
Engaging professor, expanded comfort zone
Dishon points to Elaine Roth as a particularly engaging professor. “I’m not a lover of film, but her course on US Black cinematic directors was riveting. I loved the way she set out the syllabus and structured the course. The assigned readings in academic journals opened a new world. Especially as a non-film gal, I found this course a great chance to learn something outside my realm of experience. I met a history and world of people and creativity I had no idea about. By the end of the course, I was galvanized. Elaine Roth could engage anyone.”
Roth’s course required students to interact on discussion boards. “I was surprised at the amount of personal interaction,” says Dishon. “This is active learning. In in-person classes you can hang back and be shy or passive. Discussion boards meant we really engaged as people.” For Dishon, the discussion boards led to connecting with classmates outside the course. “We talk about topics, like ‘What’s C.P. Snow saying here? What do you think of this article?’ I really enjoy the chance for peer review. Discussion boards and the acquaintances and connections I make help me advance learning well beyond the classroom.”
Paying it forward
As she looks to the future, Dishon sees herself earning a PhD. Her choice of school: “If I could earn a PhD through IU Online, I would. My loyalty is with IU Online.”
She also sees herself pursuing a tenure-track position in liberal studies at a college or university. Teaching, Dishon believes, provides the opportunity to inspire others to look beyond what they think they know. “I want to pass my love of learning on to others. Learning for me is a way of life.” Besides, she says, giving back works both ways. “In inspiring others, we grow ourselves, in new ways. There is so much to celebrate in where we’ve been and where we’re going. What better way to live than through liberal studies?”
