Carol Allie is what you would call a nontraditional student.

Like many high school graduates, she enrolled in college. But after a year in school, she took time off to raise her children.

At 48, she returned to academia to pursue a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. For eight years, Carol worked and attended University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Her hard work paid off when she graduated and was awarded the School of Education’s Chancellor’s Medallion for her campus involvement and academic success. She now can add to her list of accomplishments, as this year, Carol became a “Difference Maker.”

“I have achieved my first goal of graduating from UM-Dearborn with high distinction, but the long-term goals I have are still to be realized,” she said. “I want to have my own classroom that will be a community of learners who radiate the joy of education. I want to provide high-quality instruction for elementary school children in an atmosphere of warmth and caring.”

That’s to name a few. She also plans to pursue a master’s degree and teach for many years to come.

“Many educators and scientists … continue teaching, learning and writing well into their 60s and 70s,” she said. “I plan to continue teaching to the best of my ability, as well.”

Carol is an example of how someone successfully managed their time. She raised her children, took classes and worked part-time, yet somehow managed to graduate with a 4.0 GPA.

“Carol also was an active student on campus,” said Susan Everett, associate professor of science education. “She successfully managed her education, while both working part-time and engaging in extracurricular activities. These are all great indicators that she will continue to demonstrate these qualities now that she has graduated, and we at UM-Dearborn will be proud to call her one of our own.”