Graduate alumna spotlight: Mary Mullins
Published: Jun 14, 2021 9:00 AM
By Karen Hunley
Mary Mullins, online Master of Civil Engineering alumna
Q: Where did you earn your bachelor’s degree and what is it in?
A: University of Alabama, B.S. in civil engineering
Q: When did you start and when did you finish your graduate program?
A: I began August 2017 and graduated in May 2021.
Q: What have you been doing since you finished the program?
A: I am working as a structural engineer.
Q: What made you decide to pursue this graduate online program?
A: Auburn’s engineering program is very reputable. The same professors and coursework available to the students on campus are also available to online students. I was confident I would obtain a great engineering skillset since Auburn made the online experience as close to the in-person experience as possible.
Q: What was your personal experience with the 100 percent online format?
A: I was extremely impressed with Auburn’s online program. It allowed me to pursue my graduate degree while gaining industry experience. The professors were gracious with their time, making sure I understood the course material. The administrative staff was very accommodating and responsive to email. Finishing this program was very rewarding because I knew that the classes I took were just as challenging as the classes being given to the students on campus.
Q: How has this graduate degree enhanced your professional life, or how do you expect it will in future?
A: I have a very technical role, so I was able to use what I learned in my classes immediately in my professional life. I also developed great time-management skills. This program provided me with a deeper understanding of structural engineering that I cannot learn on the job.
Q: What would you tell someone who was thinking about applying for an Auburn Engineering Online graduate program?
A: A graduate degree is a very valuable credential for an engineering career. Obtaining one online without having to quit your job is a unique opportunity. Manage your time wisely, set goals for yourself and appreciate the gift of learning.