Working a full-time job and attending school full time is no small task, but Millikin University political science major Rob Hickey has found a way to make it work.
The Decatur, Ill., native always had a fascination with houses and that interest has led him to becoming a real estate broker for Brinkoetter and Associates Realtors, a position he's held the last five years. When he's not working with clients, Hickey is taking classes through Millikin's PACE Program.
"The first time I learned about the PACE Program was through my father who told me that one of his co-worker's sons had started up with the program and was working with ADM at the time," said Hickey. "ADM helped him finish his degree and it changed that man's life. For the longest time, the PACE Program has been present in the back of my mind that it was an option and I'm glad I went through with it."
Millikin's PACE Program is designed for individuals who want a more flexible way to earn a degree. Accelerated classes take place online and during evenings and weekends. New offerings provide a similar flexibility but may incorporate daytime courses. Students are able to work closely with an advisor to create a schedule that fits their unique schedule and lifestyle.
"Millikin has been wonderful in terms of helping me make this work," said Hickey. "The fact of the matter is that it's absolutely doable and being a realtor helps with that in terms of my schedule."
Hickey, a junior at Millikin, says he might go into law one day or possibly run for office.
"I've found my efforts to be extremely rewarding to this point," said Hickey. "Brinkoetter and Associates have been bending over backwards to make sure that everything works and that I can continue on with my education and better my life."