Why I’m a proud Purdue Global alum 

Learn about Craig Dockstader’s journey toward his online degree in communication and his inspiring words of support 

Craig Dockstader is one of Purdue Global’s proudest alumni. From interacting with social channels to being an advocate for online learning, he loves to show his support. Learn about his journey, to his bachelor’s degree, told in his own words, and how Purdue Global has helped him move forward in his career. Plus, discover his advice about what it means to be a successful online student and graduate.

I had already seen my wife finish her degree. My oldest child had finished hers, and there I was stuck in limbo. I was getting to the point where getting my degree was something I wanted to do. At the time, I was in law enforcement, but I then transitioned to working for a waste and recycling company that had an education benefit. It gave all types and levels of employees an educational benefit. My wife and I also had a lot of friends recommending the great opportunities with Purdue Global. So I did a lot of research. I figured this is the perfect fit.

It’s going to help me meet my educational goals. It’s going to help me with my career advancement. I’m going to feel like I have the support to continue my success within my career or whatever I do in life. I wanted the best bang for my buck, so to speak, and I’m happy to say that I have gotten everything that I’ve asked for and more. I feel it did so many great things for me and my family, even though I earned that degree later in life. It just shows you that it’s never too late.

I have gotten everything that I’ve asked for and more.

Craig Dockstader  BA communication ’24, Purdue Global 

I have two daughters, a granddaughter and a grandson. They know that when I commit to something, I’m all in. I don’t do anything halfway. So they knew when I said, “Hey, I’m going back to school. I’m going to graduate with highest honors. I’m going to get those gold cords because that’s my goal.” There was nothing stopping me, and then for them to see it, they’re like, “Wow. You really did it.” I did.

It’s hard not to get emotional about it now. Graduation was surreal. You put in all those hours, and you work so hard to make your goal a reality. Seeing my wife and my youngest daughter in the stands cheering me on in Dallas, that was a big deal. I showed my kids and my coworkers that it’s never too late. I couldn’t have thought of a better way to walk across the stage other than raising my hands like Rocky. It felt so triumphant.

I showed my kids and my coworkers that it’s never too late.

Craig Dockstader
BA communication ’24, Purdue Global

Since earning my degree, it has helped me with my team and within my career. I’ve been with my company for seven years, and the improvement is extremely noticeable. I’m a market-area safety specialist, so I do a lot of training, teaching and educating. If we’re educating our employees, then they feel inspired to do more because they’re feeling valued. I wanted to be an effective communicator, so I chose to pursue my bachelor’s in communication. I was a terrible speaker before my degree, but now I have a better understanding of what the other person needs. I don’t know many people who can say that they utilize their degree every day, but I know that I do. I’m very passionate about it.

To other working adults who are hesitant about going back to school, I just want to say that it’s never too late. Don’t think that your age is a restriction or the reason why you can’t keep going. You’re going to get back what you put in. Don’t give up when it’s hard. I’ve been supported from start to finish, and I’m still supported even though I’ve graduated. I still have weekly contact with my professors because I’ve built friendships

If you’re wondering if it’s right for you, they even give you a three-week, no-cost trial. Take advantage of it and see if it is for you. I’ve done the research; I’ve saved the time for you. Just remember, you won’t find an online university that supports you as much as Purdue Global does. So just take the time, take the step, make that progress and go forward.