WGU Graduate Speaker, Kathleen Satumbaga

<p>Saturday, June 8, 2019 WGU Commencement in Anaheim, California. Kathleen Satumbaga was a graduate speaker. Kathleen Satumbaga earned a Master of Science, Nursing - Leadership and Management degree.</p> <p>Transcription of video:</p> <p>Spencer Stewart: And now we have the privilege of hearing from two graduates. They are Kathleen Satumbaga, Master of Science Nursing Leadership and Management from San Antonio, Texas. And Salomon Torrescano [cheers] yes, Master of Business Administration Healthcare Management, right here from Palm Springs, California. Please join me in welcoming first to the lectern, Kathleen. [Applause] </p> <p>Kathleen Satumbaga: Okay. I was not the first person in my family to obtain a master's degree. My father has his master's degree in engineering. Growing up, he always emphasized the power of education to give us opportunities that match our talent. </p> <p>When I was just five years old, my family and I migrated to America from the Philippines. At the time, I did not understand the magnitude of the change. I just remember I didn't speak a word of English, and everything sounded like gibberish. But the impact was so much bigger than that. We went from having little to no possibility of personal or professional growth, to an endless amount of opportunities. </p> <p>It was not until I was older that I realized that my father pursuing his education provided me freedom. That the reason he pushed me educationally was because it positioned our family to move to America. To my parents, education completely changed our lives. My father has always said, "Knowledge can never be taken away from us. Jobs and people may come and go, but no one can take away what we've learned and achieved." [Applause] </p> <p>I initially wanted to finish my degree in one year, but it turned out to be a lot tougher than I thought. For one thing, I bought my first home which flooded immediately after we moved in. So my family and I were displaced, living in a hotel while I was trying to finish my term at WGU. I have vivid memories of sitting in the hotel lobby at 3 a.m., feeling broken down and wondering how I would pull this off. </p> <p>On top of that, I started a new relationship and anyone who has done that knows how much time and energy that can take. Turns out, he ended up being my biggest supporter and played a huge role in my journey. </p> <p>Hardest of all, my grandmother passed away, so I had to go back to the Philippines right in the middle of a term. I remember writing a paper on the 14 hour plane ride, just holding back the tears. In the end, it took me longer than a year, but I did it. And with all that life threw at me, I'm not sure I could've done it with any other school. </p> <p>WGU exceeded all my expectations. Though it's online I never felt that I was alone. My program mentor, Jenny is she here? [Applause] Course instructors, the WGU Writing Center, the library were always there when I needed them. They were always available via phone call, email or text. I never felt that the goal was unattainable, and I never felt that I did not have the tools necessary to finish. </p> <p>This degree has already opened doors for my career that I did not know existed. When my employer found out that I was pursuing my master's degree, they promoted me to team lead at the age of 27, and encouraged me to continue on to higher management, and now, even with greater opportunities still at reach. My ultimate goal is to be either a COO, or a CNO one day. And with my MSN, the possibilities seem endless. [Applause] </p> <p>In fact, I now feel like I have so much opportunities, I kind of wish I could take a course on deciding where to go next. [Laughter] </p> <p>Best of all, this degree has helped me realize my parents' dream for me: An education, opportunities, and the freedom to pursue my dreams. And I know this is what all of our degrees can do for us. They will help us go in the direction of our dreams confidently. </p> <p>I am honored to be standing in front of you today and to be surrounded by people who did not give up on those dreams. Mom, thank you for standing behind my dad while he pursued his education. Behind every smart man is a smart woman, and I'm blessed to have you lead by example. [Applause] </p> <p>So congratulations to all the night owls out there, I know your journey was demanding, tough, and full of sacrifices. We did it for our families, our patience, our careers, and most of all, ourselves. Good luck to all and congratulations again. [Cheers and applause] </p>