Troy and Cami Tyler

Husband and wife, J. Troy and Camie Tyler, earned their degrees from Purdue University North Central in December. While they may not have always planned to graduate together, the pair found themselves studying together, encouraging one another and supporting one another in their commitment to each earn a degree.

Troy earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology, while Cami was awarded a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science with a concentration in Psychology.

Today, Troy is teaching a class Math 153 – Algebra and Trigonometry 101 at PNC, and Cami is working part time. Both are looking forward to graduate school.

The Westville residents said that it was not difficult for them to decide to earn their degrees from PNC. “I chose PNC because Purdue has a good reputation as an engineering school and is close to home,” explained Troy.

He explained that he chose his major “Because I’ve always had a fascination with electronics, especially robotics. The EET program gave me the opportunity to explore different aspects of electrical engineering.

“I want to work with prosthetics, particularly the emerging technologies involving artificial limbs controlled through a nerve-microchip interface. But I also have an interest in the growing field of robotics applications in the military.”

Cami noted that many classes and professors enlightened and inspired her. “My class, Social Work Practice, taught by professor Lori Radtke, showed me what kind of social worker I could be. My internship at an adult day center helped me to decide what population I want to work with.”

Ultimately, she plans to work with the elderly and their families, focusing on Alzheimer’s and dementia patients, and perhaps, working in Adult Protective Services.”

The couple started dating in 1996 and married in 1998. They share an easy-going sense of humor and maintain a positive attitude as they look forward to the future.

While some couples may find it difficult to attend college together, it worked for them.

“We kept each other motivated as well as interested in achieving our goals. Doing this together made it easier because we understood the other’s time constraints.”

But they also admit there were times when they felt they were both stretched thin.

“From time to time I have been overwhelmed either by my class projects or because of the difficulties I’ve had with Multiple Sclerosis,” said Troy. “My professors, my friends and especially my wife, were always understanding and supportive. I learned to take things one day at a time and not be overwhelmed by the long road ahead.”

Camie noted they always overcame the obstacles. “There were semesters when I worked three part-time jobs and went to school full time. I thought I would never get through the semester, but college does a funny thing to a person, it pushes you to the limit. 

“After all is said and done you look back and say ‘I did that.’ I got through college because of the support of my husband, my family and my close friends. If not for them, I may have not even started college, let alone completed my degree.”

What advice would they give people thinking about attending college?

“Where there is a will there is a way,” said Cami. “No matter what your situation or your goals – there are programs are available to help you succeed.

“This is your time to explore different opportunities. Take time to get to know your professors and fellow students through classroom and campus activities. Through them and other staff and faculty you can build a network that can help you academically and professionally.”

Their PNC support network came through when they needed them the most. The fall semester of 2006 was to be our their final semester at PNC, but they weren’t sure if we would be able to pay for classes. The collective efforts of Academic Advisor Beth Rudnick, Assistant Vice Chancellor Larry Barrett and Financial Aid Counselor Shelly Barnes them them receive the necessary funds to complete our degrees. 

“Had it not been for their efforts, one or both of us would have had to postpone graduation indefinitely,” said Cami. “Knowing that we had such dedicated people to help us out meant a great deal to us.”