For Kimberly Cicero ’25, a single mother, daughter and sister, returning to school to pursue Oswego’s criminal justice online degree was a chance to redefine what was possible for herself and her family. Outside of school, she enjoys true crime, horror and quiet moments of self-care but says back to college gave her something new: momentum.
“I waited to start my second degree when my second son started pre-K, ” she said. “That way I could devote all my time to my boys when they needed it most.”
Cicero reached a point where she knew she wanted more for her future. She had put her goals on hold for years, and enrolling at SUNY Oswego became the first step toward feeling grounded, capable and excited about what came next.
“I didn’t have a single doubt. I was so ready to see this through,” she said. “I knew in my heart I was made for more, and beginning my journey at SUNY Oswego helped me step into that future with confidence. I will graduate this December with zero regrets.”
When she began researching schools, Oswego stood out immediately. Its beauty, online flexibility and academic offerings aligned perfectly with the next stage of her life.
“I’ll be honest… I Googled colleges near me and Oswego is three hours away, but the images are what sold me,” she said. “The campus was breathtaking. Specifically, the first image I saw of the campus at sunset, with Lake Onaterio and the Glimmerglass Lagoon was breathtaking. Nothing could change my mind.”
Cicero has wanted to pursue criminal justice since she was a child. The fully online program allowed her to move toward that dream while raising her boys but she said the support she found at Oswego is what truly transformed her experience. SUNY Oswego’s online criminal justice program is designed to support working adults, offering real flexibility without sacrificing academic quality.
“My advisor, Karen Archibee, is out of this world,” she said. “She’s always so quick to get back to me with any questions or concerns. She checks on me, and I genuinely believe she cares about my success.”
That encouragement helped her not only stay on track but grow into someone who now trusts her own abilities.
“Half of it was believing I could, and the other half was my advisor’s support,” Cicero said. “Outside of her, I don’t have much support at home — I’m the one holding everything together. She doesn’t know it, but she became exactly what I needed, and I’m not sure I’d be here without her.”
Throughout her courses, Cicero discovered a new confidence — one she credits to both her own dedication and the guidance she received through the program.
“I’ve learned so much about myself,” she said. “I see now how strong and resilient I am. I don’t question my abilities anymore because I know I can. I’m here, I’m doing it, and I’m so proud.” She hopes her boys grow up knowing that even in difficult seasons, big dreams are worth pursuing.
Although she completed her degree fully online, Cicero is excited to visit the campus that inspired her decision in the first place. “I’ll be seeing it for the first time when I graduate in December,” she said.
Looking ahead, she is focused on a future in investigative homicide, driven by her passion for helping others and her belief in her own potential.
“My ultimate goal is to work in investigative homicide,” she said. “I don’t want my hard work to go in vain. I’d like to be CEO one day but I’m willing to start anywhere.”
When Cicero hears “education built around you,” she thinks of the online learning that made her journey possible. “If it wasn’t for that, I wouldn’t be here,” she said.
As she prepares to graduate, Cicero is grateful for the education that helped her rediscover her strength — and the university that supported her every step of the way.
“I have enjoyed my time at Oswego so much,” she said. “I wish everyone had the opportunity to experience this education. I feel so blessed to have had this opportunity. Thank you, Oswego and staff.”
For her, earning a degree is more than reaching the finish line. It’s a testament to persistence, empowerment and the belief that with the right support, you can build a future to be proud of.
Cicero’s journey shows that motherhood doesn’t mean putting your dreams away — it can be the very reason to chase them. If you’re ready to continue your degree or begin a new path, explore SUNY Oswego’s adult learner page to discover flexible options built around real life.
- Written by Cristina Kaplan of the Class of 2026
