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SNHU Spotlight: Team Harrison Welcomed Son and Graduated Together

Korey Harrison, left, and Shunte Harrison, right, dressed in their SNHU graduation cap and gown.

After Shunte Harrison '23 completed her Associate of Science (AS) in Criminal Justice from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), she traveled to New Hampshire to attend Commencement alongside her husband, Korey Harrison '23, who earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration.

“To be here together, to graduate, is just amazing,” Shunte said. “It’s been a long time coming. We’ve worked really, really hard to get here.”

Shunte went through IVF treatments while in school, and she said that although it was difficult, her advisor, Susan Maxsimic, supported her throughout all of it. Maxsimic called Shunte often to check in on how she was doing during her program.

Watching Shunte's experience at SNHU encouraged Korey to apply. "When I applied, just everything ... from admissions to financial aid — everything just went so quick and smooth," Korey said.

Korey began attending college in 2005 but didn't finish his degree, and he hadn't considered online classes until the couple found SNHU.

“It feels good knowing I was part of the reason why he started his journey with SNHU and finishing his degree," said Shunte. "It’s just great, because it shows that we’re a team.”

When she got pregnant, Korey said Shunte stayed motivated and helped to support him through their online courses. The timing of their son's birth was an exciting surprise.

“My son being born on my conferral date ... was just amazing,” she said. “It meant a lot to me. It was two blessings in one.”

Shunte hopes that their accomplishments show their son that anything is possible. She said that she wants her son to know his parents earned their degrees for him.

Some of Shunte's family members dropped out of high school, and those who earned a high school diploma didn't pursue further education. As a first-generation college student, Shunte hopes to set the tone for the rest of her family to follow in her footsteps.

“You can do this no matter what age, no matter what you’re going through, how long it takes you, it doesn’t matter,” Shunte said. “You can do it. Just stay the course.”

A degree can change your life. Choose your program from 200+ SNHU degrees that can take you where you want to go.

Ashleigh Worley '22 is a writer at Southern New Hampshire University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in English. She is currently pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at SNHU. Connect with her on LinkedIn.

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About Southern New Hampshire University

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SNHU is a nonprofit, accredited university with a mission to make high-quality education more accessible and affordable for everyone.

Founded in 1932, and online since 1995, we’ve helped countless students reach their goals with flexible, career-focused programs. Our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH is home to over 3,000 students, and we serve over 135,000 students online. Visit our about SNHU page to learn more about our mission, accreditations, leadership team, national recognitions and awards.