Patrick Middleton has been named Ashford University’s Outstanding Alumni of the Month for January 2017. Middleton graduated from Ashford University with dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and business administration in 2012.

Middleton realized early that in order for him to excel in his career he would need to obtain a college degree, and selected Ashford University as his college of choice. “If I could describe my experience with Ashford in one word, it would be grateful,” says Middleton.

Shortly after graduating from high school, Middleton found himself in entry-level sales positions and unable to further his career without a college degree. “Although I felt I was good at these sales jobs, I had little interest in the field and found the endless cycle extremely frustrating,” said Middleton.

Middleton enrolled in Ashford’s undergraduate psychology and business administration programs because it was a good fit for his career ambitions. While pursuing his degree at Ashford, he was impressed with the level of education he was receiving as well as the level of professionalism extended to him by Ashford faculty and staff.

Although the curriculum was difficult, Middleton gained the confidence he needed to complete his undergraduate coursework. Relying on Ashford’s online library, Middleton used the additional resources to support his studies. “When I passed a new class every five weeks, my identity shifted from I can’t do this, to I can do this.”

After graduating with dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and business administration, Middleton then pursued his master’s in marriage and family therapy.

Ashford not only provided Middleton with an education, but also provided him a new career. Two years into his studies, Middleton was hired as an enrollment services advisor at Ashford, where he is able to pair his love for helping others with his passion for creating opportunities.

Middleton’s passion remains the same: working with students and helping others better their circumstances. “The more I grow professionally and personally, the more I value what we do here at Ashford.”

To read more about Patrick Middleton’s Ashford experience, visit https://www.ashford.edu/online-learning-experience/student-success-stories/pat-middleton.

The Ashford University Outstanding Alum of the Month recognition was created to spotlight Ashford success stories and graduates who have used their Ashford education as a springboard to personal and professional achievement.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs online, allowing students to balance life by providing the flexibility to do school work anywhere, anytime. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Marianne Perez, Media Relations Manager, at 858.513.9240 x11636.