Balancing work, being a mother of five and being an honor roll student is not always an easy feat, but Brittany Spires learned a good support system can help you along the way. Spires is soon to graduate with a degree in psychology.

Spires is one of more than 1,100 students eligible for fall 2021 graduation. Learn more about her time at Wichita State and what is next for the grad.

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What degree did you earn?

I am receiving a Bachelor of General Studies in psychology with three minors in creative writing, sociology and women’s studies. I am also receiving the Tilford Diversity Certificate.

What is your hometown?

My hometown is Wichita, Kansas.

What led you to Wichita State?

I was eager to become a Shocker right out of high school, in 2001. Due to personal struggles, I withdrew from Wichita State after one year. Sixteen years later, I was ready to earn my degree and WSU was my first choice.

How are you feeling leading up to graduation?

Leading up to graduation, I feel ecstatic. I did what I came to do, and my experience at Wichita State has been amazing.

What has been your most helpful learning experience while a student at Wichita State?

While being a student here at Wichita State, my most helpful learning experience has been to get involved. I’ve learned that my short-term and long-term goals have been accomplished by reaching out, asking questions, participating in different events, and networking. My advisors, classmates and professors have all played a huge role in my learning experience.

What has been your biggest challenge as a student, and how did you overcome it?

I am a wife, mother of five, and honor roll student, so for me, balancing work, home and school was my biggest challenge. I worked through this challenge by trying to improve my organizational skills. I created a daily schedule and regularly assessed my priorities to make sure they were in the right place. I also had to learn how to compromise in certain areas of my life.

What are your plans after graduation?

After graduation, my plan is to find a job where I can combine psychology and creative writing. I’m still considering my options for grad school. That would be a great next step as well.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your time at Wichita State or your post-graduation plans? 

COVID-19 drastically changed the plans I had in place. Having to homeschool my children for a year added to my responsibilities, but my family adjusted, and we have been leaning on each other to get through it.

What advice would you give other Wichita State students?

To other students, I say, hang in there. Believe in yourself. Set small goals. Give yourself grace to be imperfect. Make sure you have a support system. And make your health and yourself a priority.