SNHU Spotlight: Jenny McCracken, BS in Business Administration Grad

Jenny McCracken ‘24 said she’s always had drive, but until recently, she didn't have a college degree under her belt.

In 2005, McCracken had to put her education on hold while she focused on her career in the military. But she eventually decided to pursue a degree, she said, from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). And after juggling 10-hour work days, her active service in the U. S. National Guard, and a full load of coursework, she’s earned it.

“There was a lot that went into this,” said McCracken. “I had great support from my friends and my family, and I finally got it done.”

She said she chose SNHU because it offered the program she was interested in — a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management. Online education was also important for her, McCracken noted, as she required flexibility with her involvement in the National Guard.

“SNHU did great with my military service,” she said. “The staff worked with me.”

Having spent 19 years in the military, McCracken said she expected to be deployed while going to school. The faculty and staff at SNHU, she said, were always understanding and in constant contact.

Whether it was an advisor or a teacher, someone was always there to help at a moment’s notice, McCracken said.

“My ability to work on my program, no matter where I was at in the world, to continually do it... helped me get (my degree) a lot faster than I would have going to a traditional brick and mortar school,” said McCracken.

McCracken said she dug into her work and didn’t take any breaks. She didn’t miss any assignments, and she graduated with honors.

At the 2024 Commencement ceremony she wore her honor cords and an LGBTQIA+ sash. As she received her degree, she said she wanted to represent herself proudly.

In the future, McCracken plans to use her education to further her career in management. “I want to be general manager, I want to run my own business," she said. "I want to make money, and I want to help people around me."

Knowing she earned this degree while balancing a full-time job and military service, McCracken said nothing can stop her. “This is behind me,” she said, “and there’s nothing that I can’t do.”

Abigayle Mahnken ’22 is an assistant content writer at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English and is currently earning a Master of Arts (MA) in English and Creative Writing. Passionate about storytelling and education, she enjoys learning from fellow students' experiences and sharing their stories. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, reading, and learning. She also really likes video games. Connect with her on LinkedIn.