John Purcell
Program : Master of Science in Education
Hometown : Ridley Park, PA
Undergraduate Degree : BS in marketing, Penn State University
It took a giant leap of faith for John Purcell to quit his executive job at Boscov’s Department Store and head back to the classroom. In John’s case, however, the classroom is not just a temporary stop but a destination that he plans to call home. It is a journey that works for Purcell for many reasons, including a flexible schedule and Neumann professors who have helped guide him along.
He had thought about switching careers ten years ago but couldn’t find a program that appealed to him. In the meantime, he kept working in the retail business, spending too much time away from his wife, son, and daughter. In addition to juggling work and family responsibilities, John also serves his community as a member of the Ridley Park Borough Council. After 13 years at Boscov’s, he decided it was time to find a career that he would love and still have time for his family and community.
“At first I didn’t think it was possible,” he says. After meeting with Neumann professor Dr. Andrew DeSanto, going back to school became a reality for John. “Dr. DeSanto said this is really doable. I walked out of my meeting with him and I registered for classes that night,” he recalls.
After looking at other universities in the area, John says he turned to Neumann because of its reputation, flexible schedule, and willingness to accept his previous credits and work experience.
“Neumann has an excellent reputation for its educational program. I haven’t had any trouble getting the classes I need. And the size of the classes is capped at 15. I love that. It allows the professors to get to know us and they are quite accessible.”
The professors are one of the best parts of the Neumann program according to John. He says they are real people with real work experience who are very willing to share with their students. After taking six classes, John had had only three professors. He believes that familiarity makes for a more personal approach to teaching.
John plans to graduate in the fall of 2008 with a dual certificate in special education and elementary education as well as a master’s degree in education. His advice to others considering a similar career change is to jump right in. “Just do it. It’s very doable no matter how busy your life is. You can make it work.”
