The PCS ACCESS Center supported Krystal on her path back to education
Krystal Hastings had been part of the University of Delaware community for years, working on campus, taking classes when she could and steadily building knowledge along the way. But for a long time, life made it difficult to fully commit to a degree program.
Between raising a family and working full time, her focus had to be on her daughters.
“I had taken classes on and off since 2006,” Krystal says. “But it was always hard to truly follow a program when my girls were little. They needed me first.”
That changed when the timing — and the opportunity — finally aligned.
When Krystal learned about the Associate in Arts online learning program through UD’s Professional and Continuing Studies (UD PCS), she realized it was the right moment to take the next step.
Access that made it possible
Accepted into the program in spring 2024 and beginning classes that fall, Krystal found a clear path forward that removed barriers she’d faced in the past — with guidance and support from the UD PCS ACCESS Center.
“The distance learning program gave me the chance to take classes as an adult who’s working full time and raising a family,” she explains. “I don’t think I would have had that opportunity in a traditional, in‑person program.”
Through flexible course delivery, multiple testing locations and thoughtful program design, Krystal was able to move forward without having to choose between her education, her career and her family.
“It really is all about access,” she says. “Everything about this program made it easier to succeed in my situation.”
Determination, supported every step of the way
Like many UD PCS students, Krystal balanced competing responsibilities: working full time, parenting and studying, often late into the night.
What made the difference was support.
Through the PCS Access Center, Krystal worked closely with her advisor, Barbara Lewis-Kuszyk, whose guidance went far beyond course registration.
“She didn’t just help me navigate the system,” Krystal says. “Barbara helped me make choices that would get me to my end goal, making sure the classes I took actually counted and fit my future plans.”
From regular check‑ins to encouragement at key moments in the semester, that extra level of support helped Krystal stay on track and confident.
“There hasn’t been a time she didn’t have an answer, or didn’t help me find one,” she says. “I honestly couldn’t have done this without her.”
Impact beyond the classroom
For Krystal, earning her degree isn’t just a personal milestone — it’s something her family celebrates right alongside her.
“I don’t think I appreciated education the same way when I was younger,” she reflects. “Now, I understand everything that goes into it: the professors, the advisors, the families supporting students.”
Her daughters see it too.
“‘Mom, I’m so proud of you,’” they tell her. “‘I can’t wait to cheer you on at graduation.’”
That support has made every late night, long day and busy semester worth it.
“It has been completely worth it,” Krystal says.
Paying it forward
For adults who may be wondering whether it’s too late — or too hard — to go back to school, Krystal’s advice is simple.
“Just do it,” she says. “I was nervous. I didn’t know if I’d have the time or if I could really do it. But saying yes two years ago was the best decision I’ve ever made.”
Why I Heart UD Day matters
Krystal’s story shows exactly why I Heart UD Giving Day is so important. UD PCS programs — and the support that makes them possible — help adult learners overcome obstacles and finish what they once had to pause.
Scholarship support and donor generosity ensure that students balancing work, family and big responsibilities don’t have to choose between them.
On I Heart UD Giving Day, your support helps students like Krystal move forward with confidence — and show their families what’s possible. Celebrate Krystal and students like her on April 29, 2026.
