Communication Master's Student Graduating This Spring After Enrolling at UC in 1994

Desiré Bennett began her journey at University of Cincinnati in 1994. As a single, new mother, Bennett soon realized that she would have to take some time off to focus on raising her son. 

But, in 2008, more than a decade later, Bennett returned to UC after transferring from Cincinnati State where she graduated magna cum laude with her associate degree. 

Her challenges were far from over though. Bennett was told that her GPA from 1995 had transferred over and, since she had never properly withdrawn from her classes, she was starting out with an F average. 

Although she was devastated, Bennett was determined to work harder than ever. 

“Instead of making excuses, I made changes,” says Bennett. “Somehow I was able to make the dean's list every quarter that followed, I graduated with high honors, and, not only was I accepted into graduate school, I was also awarded a scholarship to pay for it.”

She says she has UC's journalism faculty to thank for that. 

“Jenny Wohlfarth … and Jon Hughes … were more than helpful, and both played an integral part in my journey and my success,” says Bennett. 

Bennett completed the journalism program and earned her bachelor's degree in 2011 and is now graduating from graduate school with a master's degree in communication. 

“To know that I am finally completing this chapter in my life is exhilarating, and I am eagerly anticipating what’s to come,” she says. “It will be interesting to see what the next chapter holds.”