For the faculty and staff members at CU, the exploration of new academic and professional interests is both seen as highly valuable and encouraged. The Tuition Assistance Benefit (TAB) provides an opportunity for employees to focus on education and professional growth without the investment that has burdened so many.

A new article on CU’s Work/Life Blog features Holly Ables, a health care program manager in the Department of Psychiatry who is on track to earn her second master’s degree with the help of TAB. The Department of Psychiatry’s Communications team sat Holly down to dive a little deeper into who she is, what inspires her, and why she’s so glad to have TAB in her corner.

How did you learn about TAB? Was it hard to utilize the services?

HA: I learned about TAB back when I started working at CU in 2014. It took me about a year to get the courage to apply and start my first MA while working FT with 2 elementary school-aged children at home. The process then was a bit onerous, but now it’s super easy and online to submit for the benefit each semester. 

What inspired you to pursue not just one, but two master’s degrees through TAB?

HA: Honestly, I always wanted at least an MA and having a husband with a PhD was my motivation to advance! The first MA was simply to have the credentials, but this MBA in Healthcare Administration is motivated by the job I’m doing as a Healthcare Program Manager in DOPsych, which has involved creating pro formas, starting new programs and clinics, and business development. The MBA is a no-brainer because it is actively helping me do the work I do and, hopefully, to advance!  

You work full time, have a family AND are in school - how do you do it all?

HA: AND I knit 25+ sweaters/hats/shawls per year too! LOL I’m exhausted from it all but am very good at block scheduling and setting aside time for every task, including my passion of knitting, and spending time with my 2 teenagers, hubby, and dog. Scheduling time for all the tasks and breaking them down into actionable steps is key for me.

What do you wish others knew about TAB? What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to think about using TAB? 

HA: A lot of times I think that I’m too old for this (and am reminded of that as the oldest student in the classroom each time), but it’s so worth it to me to put myself out there and achieve this degree. Not only will it be beneficial for my career in the long run, but it’s helping me be an inspiration for my two teenaged daughters to go for their goals and work hard. TAB is a benefit that is there for the waiting, and I encourage any CU employee, no matter your age (hello 50 this February!?!?) to go for it. It’s a lot of work, but it’s doable! Feel free to reach out to me if you have questions! 

Many thanks to Holly for being willing to share her story, which will no doubt serve as an inspiration to others who are ready to step back into the classroom. For more about Holly’s experience, along with those of some other folks in the CU community, make sure to read the full CU Work/Life article here. 

The Ables family wearing creations knit by Holly.

The Ables family dog, Clover, modeling a hat knit by Holly.