Mindy Lambert earned her high school diploma and a credentialed career certificate in Office Management through Smart Horizons Career Online Education (SHCOE) in January of this year. But after 18 months of diligent studying at SHCOE’s online high school, Lambert’s relationship with the company now enters a new phase. In April, the 33-year-old wife and mother of three was hired by SHCOE to serve as an Admissions Representative.
SHCOE is the world’s first AdvancED/SACS accredited online school district, enabling students to earn an 18-credit high school diploma and credentialed career certificate in one comprehensive program. Lambert now works in SHCOE’s headquarters in Lawton, OK, which also happens to be her hometown. Armed with thorough knowledge of just how much SHCOE has to offer students of all ages, Lambert feels well qualified to work with prospective students.
“I answer incoming calls and let people know about the program, and I also set up times to communicate with prospective students over the phone to address their questions and provide information about the high school program,” Lambert said of her duties. “I’m still pretty new, but I am enjoying the job so far.”
Lambert believes SHCOE’s program has many attractive selling points.
“One of the key features of the program is that it is self-paced, so students can complete their school work on their own time,” she said. “Students can progress quickly if they want, or they can move at a pace that gives them the ability to do things they’ve scheduled with their families, for example. For me, it was important to be able to make my school schedule work with my other life responsibilities.”
Lambert’s firsthand experience as a student gives her a unique perspective as she now helps other prospective students make the life-changing decision to go back to school. “As a former student, I have faith in the SHCOE program. The coursework is presented in a very accessible way and I believe it has potential for a broad range of people—from those who know exactly what they’re doing to those who have something hindering them from achieving their potential.”
Lambert also talked about the great support system for SHCOE students. “No one ever has to feel like they’re on their own because academic advisors are always available to answer questions and help them through any rough spots,” she said.
When interviewed during her days as a SHCOE student, Lambert said that she had always envisioned herself working in an office setting as “a person of purpose and dedication.” SHCOE has helped her to achieve that goal.
“As an employee, I hope I can progress in every way I know how,” she said.