Kara Loden truly found the best of both worlds when she attended Brown Mackie College — Merrillville. Upon graduation from Brown Mackie College — Merrillville in the summer of 2003 with an associate of science degree in Business Management, Kara secured a job in the school's registrar's office. "I take my schooling and my job very seriously," she said. "I am self motivated and dedicated."

Self-motivation and dedication are some key components of Kara's success. "Treat your classmates, staff and faculty with respect and courtesy. You'll be amazed at the way people will respond to you," says Kara. Her words are a testament to how a good heart attracts opportunities for any student.

Kara's motivation and drive for success is what enables her to currently work full time while attending classes at South University to earn her bachelor's degree in Business Management. "I felt that a degree in Business Management could open many doors for me. It's a versatile field with many possibilities," states Kara.

Her job as the assistant to the Registrar helps keep Brown Mackie College — Merrillville running smoothly with her daily tasks which include class scheduling, entering students' grades and attendance in the computer, tracking high school transcripts, and acting as the liaison between students and the Registrar. With this experience and her degree in Business Management, she hopes to become a business manager or supervisor within the next five years.

Kara's relentless drive serves as an example for other Brown Mackie College — Merrillville students. She encourages other students, saying, "Your education is not given to you. You have to work for it. It's so rewarding to receive a degree and know that you've obtained it with hard work and dedication. Stay focused and motivated, and you will succeed."

Personal Attention, Professional Growth www.brownmackie.edu