Alumni Spotlight: Kathlina Little, BS, on Balancing Full-time Work and Academic Growth

Earning a degree while working full time takes discipline, clarity and the right kind of support. For this Kathlina Little, BS, flexibility was essential. With access to practical content, encouraging faculty, and a program structure that supported real-time application, she was able to grow professionally while advancing her education. In this Q&A, Kathlina shares how she stayed motivated, built key skills and used Capella’s resources to keep moving forward toward their goals.

1. What or who inspired you to pursue your degree at Capella University?

Kathlina Little: I really appreciated the flexibility to be able to work full-time while pursuing my degrees.  Capella has a great blend of accessible content and supportive faculty, which made it possible for me to apply what I was learning in real time to my professional work while continuing to advance my skills and knowledge.

2. What advice would you share with someone currently working toward their degree?

Kathlina Little: Stay consistent and pace yourself.  Progress adds up faster than you think.  Make a schedule, stick to it, and don’t’ be afraid to ask for help when you need it.  Remember why you started, and celebrate small milestones along the way to keep your motivation high.

3. Which skill did you develop the most during your journey?

Kathlina Little: The skill I developed most was time management.  Balancing a full time job, coursework, and personal commitments taught me how to prioritize effectively, stay organized, and make the most of every hour in my day. 

4. How have you used the skills you gained from your program in your career?

Kathlina Little: I’ve been able to apply my skills directly to my career by streamlining projects, improving communication with stakeholders, and making data driven decisions with greater confidence.  The combination of strategic thinking and practical problem solving I gained has helped me take on more complex responsibilities and deliver stronger results in my role.

5. Lastly, which resources at Capella—such as faculty, advisors, or enrollment teams—were most helpful to you during your program?

Kathlina Little: The advisors were especially valuable in helping me map out my courses and stay on track, while the faculty provided not only the expertise but also real world insights that enriched the learning experience.  The process was smooth from the beginning, ensuring that I had the support I needed at every stage of my program. 


Are you a proud Capella graduate making an impact in your field or community?
We’d love to hear your story. Share your accomplishments and be considered for a future alumni spotlight by submitting the Alumni Accomplishments Form. Your journey could inspire others to keep reaching for their goals.

By Chundria Brownlow
Chundria Brownlow