From Student to Student Success Coach: Claire Good’s Journey with the online MA in Higher Ed Administration

When Claire Good graduated with her undergraduate degree, she expected to feel fulfilled stepping into a career in digital marketing. Instead, she found herself longing for the sense of purpose she once experienced as a peer tutor in college where she helped students grow, solve problems, and build confidence. That spark led her back to higher education, this time as a graduate student in LSU’s online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration program. 

Claire’s journey wasn’t always easy. Balancing full-time work, coursework, and unexpected health challenges required persistence and resilience. But through it all, she found strength in the support of faculty and LSU Online staff, which not only helped her cross the finish line but also fueled her desire to support students in the same way. Today, Claire is living her “why” as a Student Success Coach at LSUS, helping others achieve their goals just as she did. 

Meet Claire Good 

What initially inspired you to apply to the online MA in Higher Education Administration program from LSU? 
After graduating with my undergraduate degree from the University of Iowa, I began working in digital marketing landscape. However, I quickly realized that I didn’t find the same sense of fulfillment in that work. I often found myself reflecting on my experience as a peer tutor during college, where I loved helping students solve problems, build confidence in themselves and their skills, and witness the progress they made over the semester. That experience inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful impact on students’ academic journeys, which ultimately led me to apply to LSU’s online MA in Higher Education Administration program. 

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while completing your degree, and how did you overcome them? 
During my master’s degree, I faced unexpected health challenges, including surgery at 23, which made completing coursework more difficult than I had anticipated. I prioritized open and honest communication with staff and faculty, and their understanding and support made a huge difference. Their willingness to accommodate my needs allowed me to stay on track, complete my assignments, and continue progressing toward my degree. Experiencing this level of support firsthand really reinforced for me how crucial it is for students to feel seen, supported, and empowered in their academic journeys. It strengthened my desire to work in higher education, so I can help create environments where students can overcome challenges and succeed, just as I was able to. 

Which course or professor had the biggest impact on your academic experience, and why? 
In ELRC 7608 – Internship in Educational Administration, we were required to do in-person shadowing experiences in higher education. I got to work with my brother-in-law, who teaches GED classes for adult learners at a nearby community college, and it was eye-opening. Hearing the students’ stories—like one who was recently released from prison and was determined to turn his life around, and another who hadn’t finished high school because of battling cancer—really made me realize how much education can change lives. That experience reinforced my “why” for pursuing this degree and my desire to support students on their own journeys. 

How did you balance your studies with personal and professional commitments while completing your program online? 
When my bandwidth felt stretched between a full-time job and full-time coursework, I relied on a simple trick: each morning, I’d write 3–5 small, achievable goals on a sticky note. It made everything feel manageable and gave me a clear plan for the day. Breaking tasks into bite-sized steps, leaning on my support system, and celebrating small wins along the way helped me stay on track. That approach taught me how to balance priorities, pace myself, and keep moving forward—even when things got hectic. 

What specific skills or knowledge from the MA in Higher Education program have been most valuable in your career so far? 
One of the most valuable lessons I learned in the MA in Higher Education program was about hidden curricula—the unspoken rules of college that students often pick up from their environment, which can unintentionally disadvantage those from marginalized backgrounds. Learning about this really opened my eyes to the subtle barriers students face and reminded me how important it is to create a supportive space where they feel comfortable asking questions and seeking help. I always make it clear to my students that there’s no such thing as a bad question, and I try to be mindful of the different ways students experience and navigate higher education. It’s been a powerful reminder of how small acts of awareness and encouragement can make a big difference in a student’s confidence and success. 

Looking back, how did the program prepare you for the transition from student to higher education professional? 
One of the biggest lessons from the program was learning to embrace change. Across the board in all of my classes, I learned the importance of adaptability—whether that means shifts in student populations, changes in leadership, or updates to a college’s mission and outreach. I also realized that every role, no matter how big or small, plays a part in keeping the college running smoothly. Carrying that mindset into my work has been so helpful—it reminds me to stay flexible, keep a positive attitude, and value collaboration as I support students and help them succeed. 

What excites you most about your new role as a Student Success Coach at LSUS? 
What excites me most about my role as a Student Success Coach at LSUS is celebrating students’ achievements and supporting them along the way. I’ve already had the chance to see a student pass a class they thought they wouldn’t and reach graduation—a moment that felt just as exciting for me as it did for them. Being a point of outreach and encouragement helps create a sense of community and belonging, something that online students are just as deserving of as those on campus. It’s incredibly rewarding to know the support I provide can make a real difference in their journey. 

In what ways do you apply your graduate program experience to help the students you support now? 
Having completed an online master’s degree from LSU gives me a real sense of relatability and trust with the students I support. I’ve been in their shoes—juggling work, school, and other responsibilities—so I genuinely appreciate the effort it takes just to pursue a degree. I make it a point to acknowledge their hard work and celebrate even the small milestones. That shared experience allows me to connect with students, offer encouragement when things get tough, and provide support in a way that feels understanding and authentic. It’s a reminder of how much empathy and validation can boost a student’s confidence and success. 

What does “student success” mean to you, and how does your work contribute to that mission? 
To me, student success isn’t just about numbers like progression or graduation rates. It looks different for every student, depending on where they are in their journey. For some, it’s earning their degree, but for others it might be building confidence, overcoming a challenge, or simply making it through a tough class. That’s why I really connect with LSUS’s student-centered approach—actually listening to students, valuing their voices, and using that feedback to make things better. I love being part of a team that defines success in ways that truly reflect the student experience. 

What advice would you give to future students considering the MA in Higher Education Administration program? 
If you’re unsure about taking the leap, my advice is to go for it. I had my own hesitations at first, but the program ended up being one of the best decisions I’ve made. It not only gave me the tools I needed to grow in my career, but it also deepened my understanding of how higher education can truly shape lives. Knowledge never goes out of style—especially in this field—because the more we learn, the better we can support and empower students on their own journeys. 

Shape the Future of Higher Education with LSU Online 

Claire’s ability to complete her degree despite obstacles shows how the online Master of Arts in Higher Education Administration from LSU allows students to balance their personal responsibilities and education while learning how to make a lasting impact on future students' lives. Through flexible online learning and the support of dedicated faculty and staff, students gain the knowledge, adaptability, and leadership skills needed to thrive in higher education. 

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and help shape the future of student success, explore the online MA in Higher Education Administration and apply today.