After years away, Catalina Ari reaches graduation milestone at BGSU Firelands

Post-traditional student parent earns degree, continues toward a career supporting children

By Patrick Pfanner '14

When Bowling Green State University student Catalina Ari began her college journey, she talked about second chances, resilience and the long road back after more than a decade away from the classroom.  

This December, she crossed the stage with an associate degree in inclusive early childhood education and the sense of accomplishment she once thought was out of reach. 

“Accomplishing this first step feels surreal. I once thought I would never get this opportunity," Ari said. “Now, I cannot remember why I waited so long.” 

She had originally planned to attend the Bowling Green campus after high school, but the timing was not right.  

“Many post-traditional students believe college will be harder because they haven’t been in school for a while,” said Trisha Prunty, Ph.D., Ari’s faculty advisor and program coordinator for the inclusive education program at BGSU Firelands. “However, they bring invaluable life experiences, time management skills and abilities that translate into academic success. I love having them as part of our student body.” 

Returning as an adult with a family and a job reshaped her college experience and her motivation. Ari said she came back with a clearer sense of purpose and confidence that she didn't have at 18. 

Balancing coursework with family life and work schedules became the biggest challenge. At first, Ari said she struggled while trying to give her full attention to every part of her life. She learned quickly that managing time is just as important as studying. Her husband and mother-in-law provided the steady support she needed, especially during moments of doubt. 

“My family comes first, so I got much better at organizing my time,” Ari said. “None of this would have been possible without the help we have at home.” 

Her practicum placements became defining moments during her program. Ari said she still remembers her first day walking into a preschool classroom last spring. She spent one day each week with the same group of children and a mentor teacher who encouraged her to stretch, observe and grow.

The students greeted her by name, hugged her and celebrated her last day with cards, a signed t-shirt and a photo album capturing every week she spent in the classroom. 

“I will keep those mementos forever,” Ari said. “That experience means everything to me.” 

Her second practicum this semester confirmed what she suspected since returning to school. Ari is most drawn to intervention work and supporting students with specific learning needs. She worked with a kindergarten intervention teacher who she described as patient, skilled and inspirational. 

“Watching her celebrate her students reaching their goals and seeing the trust they have in her was inspiring,” Ari said. “It solidified what I want to do.” 

Ari said her time at Firelands also brought lasting mentorship. She credits Prunty for guiding her through difficult moments and helping her find her voice. Ari said she still remembers a small moment in class when she hesitated to use manipulatives that made noise on the table. Prunty noticed and assured her it was all right. 

“It might not seem like a big deal to some, but to me it was everything,” Ari said. “She saw me in that moment. I aspire to be that kind of teacher.” 

Even at the end of the semester, Ari balanced finals, her first OAE exam, volunteer shifts at her children’s school and family life. She said she tried to save homework for when her children were asleep so she could be present for the small everyday moments with them. 

Ari is already halfway through her junior year and plans to earn her bachelor’s degree. Her long-term goal is to become an intervention specialist. 

“It was easy to push my dream aside when my kids were little and life felt settled,” Ari said. “But once I saw the joy between teachers and students at my children’s school, it was harder to ignore what I wanted. I am glad I finally went for it.”