WKU News

Desarie Ivory, a senior and Bowling Green native, is not your traditional WKU Gordon Ford College of Business student.

A full-time mom, student and employee, Ivory is pursuing a Management degree with a concentration in Human Resource Management entirely online.

“The online experience gives me the chance to fulfill all the hats I wear and be able to complete the work when it is due,” said Ivory. “I love online courses; it’s more convenient for someone who has a busy life but also trying to be successful.”

Ivory is already putting her coursework to good use with an internship. Last year, one of her professors shared a supply chain internship opportunity at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems in Bowling Green. Ivory said she feels fortunate to have been hired by Bendix and have the internship opportunity.

“The best part is being able to get a job that pertains to my degree while in school. I never thought I would get the chance or opportunity to do so. I thought it would be hard to find a job,” Ivory said.

She said she loves making sure the needs and wants of Bendix are met and applying her coursework to the real world.

“The courses I am taking have helped tremendously. When I am in a meeting, and they speak of a term, normally, I have already heard of it from my courses. This allows me to speak my opinion and thoughts on the process because I am familiar with the system and process from classes.”

Ivory said she has a tremendous support system at WKU. Her family and professors are some of her biggest cheerleaders. 

“WKU goes above and beyond for each of the students even when we hit a rough patch; our professors are there for us and give us the support we need,” Ivory said.

Ivory graduates in December and hopes her internship will lead to a full-time opportunity at Bendix. 

Her advice to future students is, “Always give your best effort, never give up, and you will achieve. Even through your toughest time, reach out to an advisor, professor or another student. You can get the help you need. Never struggle. You got this! Keep pushing.”

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For more information about a degree in Management, visit https://www.wku.edu/management/.

For more information about WKU Online, visit https://www.wku.edu/online/