Alumni Spotlight
MEET LINDA HEARD '03
"Attending CSM gave me the opportunity to climb the corporate ladder. I was able to go to new places and meet new people; these things would not have happened if I hadn’t pursued my degree. Additionally, my time at CSM helped me gain confidence and pride in myself and what I can achieve."
What year did you graduate?
I first graduated with a business management degree in 2003, and then I graduated with a nursing certification in 2015.
Why did you choose CSM?
I attended the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) since the school’s campuses were close to my home.
What are you doing now (occupation, where you live, etc.)?
After working for the federal government for 35 years, I retired in 2015. After that, I returned to CSM to earn my nursing certification, which helped me work in the emergency room at the Charles Regional Medical Hospital. I also worked as a certified nursing assistant with a local at-home healthcare establishment. Today, I still live in Charles County. I’m very active with my Piscataway tribal community, and I spend quality time with my church members as well as my immediate family members.
What is your favorite CSM memory?
My favorite CSM memories include attending night classes, being featured on the college catalog’s front cover, and walking across the stage to receive my associate degree.
How did CSM prepare you for what you are doing today?
Attending CSM gave me the opportunity to climb the corporate ladder. I was able to go to new places and meet new people; these things would not have happened if I hadn’t pursued my degree. Additionally, my time at CSM helped me gain confidence and pride in myself and what I can achieve.
Did you transfer to another institution after graduation?
I transferred to Strayer University in Camp Springs, Maryland and attended the institution for two semesters.
What advice do you have for CSM alumni and current students?
To my fellow alumni, I say, never stop learning. I also encourage CSM’s current students to stay focused, believe in themselves, and seek assistance and/or guidance when things get difficult. Most importantly, never, ever give up. Academic efforts are well worth it in the long run.
Did you receive scholarships while at CSM - if so, which one(s)?
I was blessed with scholarships for both my business degree and my IT classes.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Growing up in Charles County, Maryland as the middle child of 11 children was not easy for me, but I’ve always been a determined child. I’m the first of 11 children to graduate from college, and as a young mother, I couldn’t afford to attend college on my own. However, with the help of God and the kindness of my employer at the Naval Surface Warfare Center (which was called the Naval Ordnance Station at the time), I was blessed with scholarships and given the opportunity to attend CSM. After obtaining my degree, I’m proud to say that I became the author of two books and was featured on WUSA Channel 9. I continue to seek ways to learn new things and help others, especially our youth, to always believe in themselves.