Returning to school while maintaining a full-time career can feel like a major leap to take. For Joseph Forish, pursuing the online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from LSU created an opportunity to grow his knowledge base while continuing to build experience in the field.
Now working as a Research Scientist, Joseph reflects on how the program’s flexibility and support helped him succeed throughout his graduate journey.
Meet Joseph Forish
Why did you choose to pursue an online degree through LSU Online?
The enrollment coaches answered all of my questions about the program before I applied and supported me through the entire program. The asynchronous ability gave me the freedom to work full time and go back to school.
Before you began, did you have any reservations or concerns about starting an online degree? If so, how did you overcome them?
I was nervous about the transition from full time work to academics. Having the support from the program faculty and staff helped me complete my assignments.
Think back to when you were first admitted to the program. How did you feel at that moment?
I was overcome with joy and happiness, as it was the beginning of the next chapter of my professional and academic life.
How did you balance work, life, and other responsibilities with your schoolwork?
Lots of time management, lists, and diligently submitting assignments (early, where applicable) allowed me to successfully complete the program.
What was your favorite aspect of the program?
Seven week courses made the classes feel like a lot to manage, but since they ended quickly, I didn’t have the chance to grow bored with the content.
What advice would you give current online students?
Make sure to stay up to date with your course deadlines and complete assignments as they come up. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, get in contact with your professors, they’re around to make sure you succeed.
What was your biggest motivator during your online course work?
The pursuit of academic growth and development and applicability to my work.
How were you supported by your Student Success Coach throughout your journey?
Ben Bell was one of the most supportive people I had during my journey. He always made sure my questions were answered and always checked in with me even if I was bogged down by work and school. Ben is the absolute best!!
Is there anyone you would like to give a shout-out to for their help while you pursued your educational goals?
My family and friends, local and abroad, all created a supportive network to ensure my success and always checked in to make sure I was ready for whatever came next- so thank you!
How has completing your degree helped or changed your career?
I have found myself more qualified for other positions that felt like a stretch for me, and being able to retain my working experience while getting my master’s degree made me more marketable.
Is there any additional information about your program you would like to share?
This program allowed me to achieve my academic goals all while continuing my professional pursuits, making it so worth it for me!
Explore Environmental Sciences Through LSU Online
As Joseph’s story demonstrates, the right graduate programs can support working professionals who want to grow their expertise without stepping away from their careers. With structured courses, dedicated faculty, and student support resources, the online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from LSU provides learners with opportunities to deepen their knowledge while continuing to build real-world experience.
Learn more about the program and apply today!
Learn MoreFAQs
How did Joseph Forish balance a full-time job while completing his online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences?
Joseph Forish balanced full-time work and graduate coursework through strong organization, consistent time management, and careful planning. The fully online format allowed him to complete coursework alongside his professional responsibilities while maintaining flexibility in his schedule. His experience highlights how structure and routine can help working professionals manage graduate-level coursework more effectively.
What support resources helped Joseph Forish succeed in LSU’s online Environmental Sciences program?
Joseph credits support from both faculty and his Student Success Coach throughout the program. Faculty members were available to answer questions and provide academic guidance, while his Student Success Coach regularly checked in and helped him stay on track throughout the program. This combination of academic and student support reflects LSU Online’s commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journey.
What did Joseph Forish appreciate most about the seven-week course structure in the online MS program?
Joseph appreciated the pace and structure of the seven-week course format because it helped him stay engaged with course material and maintain momentum throughout the program. While accelerated courses can be demanding, the shorter format supported consistent progress and allowed him to focus on one stage of the program at a time.
How did completing the online Master of Science in Environmental Sciences improve Joseph Forish’s career marketability?
Joseph shared that completing his master’s degree helped broaden the range of professional opportunities he felt prepared to pursue. Because he was able to continue working while earning his degree, he gained additional professional experience alongside graduate-level education, strengthening both his academic background and practical experience.
What advice does Joseph Forish give to current online graduate students struggling with their workload?
Joseph encourages students to stay organized, keep up with assignments consistently, and reach out for support when needed. He emphasizes the importance of communicating with professors and using available resources such as Student Success Coaches, faculty support, and personal support systems throughout the graduate school experience.
