CPS Student Stories
Our students at Johnson & Wales College of Professional Studies come from all walks of life, with varying backgrounds and different reasons for their decision to return to school. If you’re looking for some insight as to what it’s like to attend CPS, here’s your chance to hear it straight from the students themselves. Their stories will give you a firsthand look at what brought them to Johnson & Wales and what they enjoy about learning at the College of Professional Studies.
“The online master’s program was flexible enough for me to give my son the time that he needed, while working and going to school. I highly recommend the MPA program for anyone who aspires to become a leader in nonprofit and mission-focused organizations.”
Emmeline Orellana, ’24 MPA
“JWU CPS supports your journey towards educational growth by providing knowledgeable teachers who are experts in their respective fields. The professors will help you polish your experiences, skills and knowledge so you can achieve real-world success — and become the best version of YOU.”
Rasheeda Brooks Johnson, ’24 MS – Human Resources
“Looking towards the future, I can foresee a time when I may need to pivot to a new occupation. As I get older, the time may come when I stop operating and take an executive leadership position. Of all the programs I looked at, Johnson & Wales was the best fit for me.”
Dr. Ajay Patel, ’26 MBA – Finance
“The online Finance program through JWU CPS is making me a better and sharper employee by increasing my understanding about the business and math side of my industry. Every teacher I’ve had at JWU is absolutely amazing. Everyone at JWU – from my academic advisor to all the faculty – really cares.”
Jonathan Garrigues, ’24 MS – Finance
“Maintaining a full family life, working part-time and being a student hasn’t been easy, but it has been a really great experience. The Psychology program, although challenging, has been extremely thorough and informative. The support you receive at JWU CPS from your professors helps build your confidence and makes you a better student.”
Adriana Milko, ’24, BS – Psychology
“A shy child when I immigrated to the US from Vietnam at 17, English became my second language. As a first-generation student, no one in my immediate family modeled how education could be a pathway to career success. I did not know how to unlock the door to my future. I cannot deny the benefits of studying and earning my MBA – Hospitality. As an immigrant, I did not expect to go this high in my education.”
Yee Tran, ’24 MBA – Hospitality
“The Bachelor of Science in Business Studies program has deepened my understanding of human resources, marketing and analytics — all of which are essential to my ability to grow and contribute to my organization. I’ve gained proficiency in business technology critical to communicating and collaborating with partners in my workplace.”
Jeffrey Adams, ‘24 BS – Business Studies
“What truly sets JWU apart is the exceptional support I received from my professors. They provided me with valuable feedback and guidance. The skills I acquired during my MBA journey have greatly enhanced my ability to serve my clientele. My confidence in leadership has grown thanks to the inspiring guidance of my professors.”
Mayra Gonzalez, ’24 MBA
“Since starting my classes at JWU, I’ve found the experience to be more enjoyable than traditional schooling. While the courses at JWU have provided me with valuable information and insights into the sports industry, they have also been surprisingly enjoyable.”
Chelsea Delfino, ’25 BS – Sports, Entertainment, Event – Management
“The online programs at CPS provided the flexibility that makes it possible for me to attend school while balancing work and family. Ongoing support from staff and faculty makes me, and other students I’ve talked with, want to succeed. For me, the journey as a JWU student has blessed my life.”
Shannon Rhyne, ’24 BS – Baking & Pastry Arts and Food Service Management
“The faculty and staff at JWU CPS were incredibly supportive while I was earning the culinary degree. Each course in the program was taught by a different teacher — all of whom have years of experience in the culinary industry.”
Brooklyn Connell, ’23 AAS –Professional Culinary Studies
“Every class in the DBA program offered practical information and guidance that I was consistently able to apply in my work. I was able to stay focused on both work and school, and ended the program with a dissertation I think is valuable and useful to the business environment.”
Dr. Suzannah Hicks, ’24 Doctor of Business Administration
“The program wasn’t easy – especially balancing school with work – but it was worth it in the end. All of my chef instructors helped me grow and inspired me to succeed in the program. The certificate program taught me essential skills to prepare food for myself, my family, and my friends – skills I think everyone needs in life.”
Sara Osorio, ’23 Professional Culinary Skills Certificate
“The support from the culinary faculty helped me meet the challenge of earning the degree online. Whenever I submitted my class assignments or emailed with questions, I received a response within a day. My experience in the culinary program was night and day compared to other schools I’ve attended; the JWU CPS faculty and staff were extremely helpful and obviously care about their students.”
Rich Clay, ’23 AAS – Professional Culinary Studies
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