Katelyn Wittman completed an online master’s in mass media management from Arkansas State in one year while working full time and becoming a new mother. She then drove over 1,500 miles to attend commencement on Dec. 13, bringing her son and parents to watch her walk the stage. Visiting campus allowed her to meet classmates and feel validated for her hard work. Wittman currently teaches high school broadcasting and hopes to transition to college-level teaching.
Las Vegas Mom Drives 1,500+ Miles to Walk the Stage After Earning Online Master’s Degree
GettyStock photo of a woman at graduation
Katelyn Wittman, a Las Vegas-based new mother, made a cross-country trip of more than 1,500 miles to Arkansas State University to receive the diploma for her online master’s degree in mass media management.
Wittman completed the program entirely online while working full time and navigating early motherhood. She told KCRG News that a recruiter helped her understand the program structure and benefits, and she was able to finish the degree in only one year.
GettyStock photo of a woman at graduation
Although she earned the degree remotely, Wittman felt it was important to attend commencement in person. She drove to campus with her young son and her parents so they could watch her walk across the stage on Dec. 13. It was also the first time she had seen Arkansas State’s campus or met many of her classmates face to face.
"My online community has been awesome," Wittman said. "Seeing the campus and seeing everything makes me proud that I chose this school in the first place."
In remarks to Arkansas State, Wittman explained why attending the ceremony mattered: it was a tangible recognition of the late nights, busy school days and the transition into becoming a new mom while completing graduate coursework.
GettyStock photo of a woman at graduation
"Attending the ceremony felt important because this degree represents such a significant chapter of my life," she said. "I worked through late nights, busy school days and the transition into becoming a new mom, and walking in person feels like the perfect way to celebrate all that dedication."
Wittman, who currently teaches high school broadcasting and video production, said the degree validates years of skill-building and professional commitment. She hopes to move into teaching at the collegiate level in the near future.
Why This Matters
Her story highlights how online degrees can be completed on an accelerated timeline while balancing family and work, and how in-person milestones such as commencement remain meaningful even for remote learners.
Read the original coverage on People and statements to Arkansas State and KCRG News for additional context.
