Rasmussen graduate holding a diploma smiling

Community. Pride. That’s Alumni.

You’re Part of a Bigger Story

Your journey likely hasn’t been a straight line. Continuing your education while hurdling over responsibilities, hardship or exciting opportunities is all part of your unique story to tell. Stories are powerful—you never know whom you will inspire. Are you ready to see extraordinary alumni stories? Or maybe share your own?

Share Your Story


First-Generation Student and Single Father Graduates with Honors

As a first-generation student, David Plowman felt pressure to succeed and a fear that he never would. Despite the challenges, he proved that small steps can lead to big accomplishments.

Read More
Two male graduates smiling

Rasmussen Graduate Writes Children’s Book

From a refugee camp in the Philippines to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Thuba Nguyen’s life has followed a remarkable path. In her touching children’s story, she uses her life experience and ECE expertise to illustrate the value of a father–daughter bond.

Read More
Rasmussen graduate smiling

More Alumni Stories

A Story of Unforgettable Confidence

"I’m the first person in my family to graduate from college... It changed my life. I’m in a completely different place than I was before I started."

– Tola O.
Graduate, Health and Wellness Bachelor’s Degree

Tola O. | Stories of Unforgettable Confidence

View transcript(Scroll to see full transcript)

I started college when I was young, freshly a parent and I wasn't able to finish. And it had always been my goal to finish college with a degree.

I have five daughters and it was always really important for me, for them to see me finish what I started. Rasmussen offered me the ability to have a more flexible schedule, to be able to do online classes. Somebody was always there to know exactly where I was going with my program and be able to help me enroll and help me get everything that I needed. It was seamless.

My ultimate goal has always been to be a wellness coach. So I chose to get a bachelor of science degree in health and wellness.

I'm the first person in my family to graduate from college. Not only did I graduate, I graduated with honors. It changed my life. I'm in a completely different place than I was before I started Rasmussen.

If you're an older learner, go to college. It's not too late. There's no age limit. It is never going to be the right time. You are never gonna have the right funds, the right money, the right job. But Rasmussen can be the right choice. Where I came from—a poor mother—I had nothing. Now I have something.

Because I have a supportive wife, I have a supportive family and I went to school—and I finished. It's literally the only reason.

And if I could tell somebody <laugh> and make them understand how important it is—it's really important.

Share Your Story

Be Someone's Inspiration

Tell us a little about your story, or just answer one or more of these questions: What are you most proud of in your education journey? What challenges did you overcome? Who cheered you on and helped you keep going? Any instructors or classes that stand out? What has your education done for you? How are you using your degree?

2022 Graduation Photo Contest Winners

Graduate with Dean at Graduation

“First Degree!” —Nashalie N.

Graduate holding decorated cap

“I did it! For my family, for my grandpa and to represent my roots!” —Aldeika V.

Graduate holding diploma

“eaRNed it, #2022RasGrad” —Celina T.

Graduate blowing confetti

“Dream, Sparkle & Shine” —Baylee L.

Rasmussen Alumni in a nurse uniform

“Pinning Ceremony” —Jaymie H.