Online student spotlight: Keith Jordan

Keith Jordan, online Master of Engineering

Q: When did you start and when do you expect to finish?

A: I started my graduate degree at Auburn in August 2021, and I anticipate graduating in August 2023.

Q: Where did you earn your bachelor’s degree and what is it in?

A: I earned my bachelor of science degree from Texas A&M University in bioenvironmental sciences. I continued my education at the University of Arkansas, earning a master of science in operations management.

Q: What have you been up to since then?

A: I consider myself a lifelong learner, and since my undergraduate degree, I have been professionally employed in the energy sector, with most of that time spent in the Houston, Texas area. In addition to full-time employment, I have been busy raising two sons with my wonderful wife, Brandi.

Q: What made you decide to join this graduate online program?

A: I wanted to pursue an engineering-based program as my final academic degree. Knowing I could not relocate to pursue my studies I looked for the best option available through a distance option. It was important for me that the distance option was not less rigorous than an on-campus option, and Auburn clearly fit that description. Having family friends that graduated from Auburn made the decision even easier. 

Q: What has been your personal experience so far with the fully online/distance format?

A: My experience with the distance format has been nothing short of fantastic. The technology is amazing. I have had some classes fully asynchronous, delivered via video, and some classes with real-time recorded lectures. The professors have been far better than I could have expected in terms of interaction and making the distance students feel welcomed and part of the campus community.

Q: Would you have gone back for your master’s if not for the online option?

A: I would not have due to relocation restrictions. Being offered online, this program truly allowed a dream to come true.

Q: How do you expect this graduate degree to enhance your professional life? 

A: I have already seen the fruits of this education in my professional life. The content I have been able to study in my interdisciplinary program has been immediately applicable to my work. In addition, having an Auburn degree will open up new networking opportunities with fellow Auburn graduates.

Q: What would you tell someone who was thinking about applying for an Auburn Engineering Online program?

A: I would encourage anyone considering an online engineering program to reach out to the campus faculty and staff for advice and consultation. There are so many options to consider and ways to tailor a program to meet the needs of today’s students. Auburn truly is a special place and it begins with the way students are treated. If you want to feel a part of the campus community but need to pursue education online, look no further than Auburn University!