November 25, 2024

Education Empowers: Jenna Doren

Jenna Doren had always considered herself a traditional learner. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe, she found herself having to adapt as learning shifted online. While Jenna missed out on the traditional on-campus university experience during her first year, she discovered the value of acquiring new skills and adopting innovative study tactics with the help of Cengage's edtech tools. Although she didn’t know it at the time, this learning experience helped her become more adaptable and she actually found that embracing new technologies was an  invaluable asset in preparing her for the ever-evolving demands of the modern workforce.

jennadoren_blog_quote.jpeg

 

Embracing Change

As a self-proclaimed traditional learner, Jenna had always preferred the in-person education experience. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced her learning to shift to an online format, she worried about missing out on the personalized instruction that comes with interacting directly with professors in a classroom setting. To her pleasant surprise, Jenna discovered that Cengage's online platform empowered her to take control of her own learning journey. By combining the best of her traditional studying techniques with new digital ones, she found herself achieving more successful outcomes.

This transformative experience not only allowed Jenna to adapt to the challenges of remote learning but also instilled in her a newfound confidence. It helped her realize that she is capable of conquering more than she initially believed. As she prepared to enter the workforce, the once daunting and ever-changing environment appeared more manageable and less intimidating.

 

 

Achieving Work-Life Balance

To support herself financially, Jenna worked full-time while being enrolled at the University of Pretoria. The transition to online classes and assignments played a crucial role in making this balancing act possible. Instead of carrying around stacks of books, everything she needed was conveniently contained on her laptop. During slow periods at work, she could easily pull out her laptop and review materials for her classes. This seamless transition between school and work allowed Jenna to maintain a healthy balance and stay on track with her academic and professional commitments. While she acknowledges that it wasn't easy, Jenna firmly believes that with determination and the right mindset, it is possible to successfully juggle both responsibilities successfully.

 

 

Gaining Educational Freedom

Being from South Africa, a country with a history of discriminatory education policies, Jenna is extremely proud of her education outcomes.

In 1953 South Africa implemented discriminatory policies to segregate and control the education of Black South Africans. The Bantu Education Act created separate and inferior educational systems for Black students compared to their white counterparts. Subsequently Indian and Colored education acts were implemented further fracturing inequality amount people of color. These unjust acts remained in effect until the early 1990s, perpetuating educational inequalities and limiting opportunities for individuals of color. 

She firmly believes that education has given her life new purpose, granting her the freedom to learn without limits. Through education, she has experienced a significant increase in self-worth and value, recognizing the transformative power it holds.

 

 

Read More About How Education Empowers:

 

Learn more:

If you’re interested in working where jobs make a difference, read about what it’s like to work at Cengage Group and check out our careers page for open roles.