A Mother, A Leader, A Student: Ryan Roman’s Story of Purpose

At APU Global, many students are balancing more than coursework. They’re balancing careers, families, and life’s unexpected challenges. For Ryan Roman, that journey is deeply personal.

With 18 years of experience in Financial Aid, Ryan has spent her career helping students navigate one of the most important investments of their lives. But at a certain point, she felt called to grow further, not just professionally, but as a leader.

That calling led her to pursue a degree in Organizational Leadership at APU Global.

A Purpose Bigger Than Herself

Ryan’s decision to return to school wasn’t just about career advancement, it was about legacy.

As a mother to her 8-year-old son, she is driven by the desire to model perseverance, faith, and commitment.“As a mother, I want to set an example for my son about perseverance, faith, and the value of education.”

At the same time, Ryan has been navigating a deeply challenging season, including a divorce and custody journey. Experiences that have only strengthened her resilience and sense of purpose.

Balancing Work, Life, and School

Working full-time while pursuing a degree is no small task and Ryan is doing it while raising a child and supporting students in her professional role.

She describes the experience as both challenging and deeply rewarding.

Her professional work and academic studies often intersect, allowing her to immediately apply what she’s learning while sharpening her leadership skills.

Through it all, she has developed:

• Stronger time management
• Greater discipline
• A deeper sense of perseverance

But more importantly, she’s learned to lean on support.

From her success coach and professors to her coworkers and classmates, Ryan emphasizes that this journey is not meant to be done alone.

Faith at the Center

One of the most meaningful parts of Ryan’s experience at APU Global has been the integration of faith into her education.

Through Monday Devotions, prayer groups, and Christ-centered coursework, her academic journey has become something much deeper than professional development, it’s become spiritual growth.

“The integration of Christ being at the center of each class… has enriched my life in so many ways.”

Staying Motivated Through It All

When asked how she manages everything, Ryan comes back to one thing: her why .

Her son.

Her future.

Her purpose.

That clarity keeps her moving forward, even on the hardest days.

She also emphasizes structure and grace:

• Staying organized
• Taking things one step at a time
• Giving herself permission to not be perfect

Advice for Future Students

Ryan’s message to anyone considering going back to school is simple but powerful:

“Don’t let fear or timing hold you back. There will never be a ‘perfect’ moment.”

She encourages students to:

• Stay connected to their purpose
• Ask for help when needed
• Believe in their ability to succeed

Because finishing a degree isn’t just an achievement, it’s an investment in your future.

Looking Ahead

After completing her program, Ryan hopes to step into a leadership role within Financial Aid. One where she can make a greater impact not just on systems, but on people.

Her goal is to lead with:

• Empathy
• Integrity
• Purpose

And to create spaces where others feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Ryan’s story is a reminder that strength doesn’t come from having it all figured out, it comes from continuing forward, even in the middle of uncertainty.

And sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do… is stay the course.

Keep reading on related topics from APU Global: The Chronicle of Higher Ed Highlights APU Global As A Mobile University, Alumni Success story: Dr. Eichin Chang-Lim, MA in Psychology Graduate.