Career Pivot: Investment Banker Earns Her Master of Information Science Online

Published on: March 19, 2026

Professional Leaves Corporate Success to Earn Degree From Dream School

Dreams. We all have them. Whether it’s a career goal, a personal milestone, or a lifelong ambition, dreams often feel just out of reach. For Ashleigh Ware, earning a degree from her dream school—the University of Tennessee, Knoxville—once seemed impossible. Thanks to Vols Online, she turned that dream into reality by earning her Master’s in Information Science (MSIS).

Born and raised in Nashville, Ashleigh grew up a die-hard UT fan and a supporter of its legendary football program. After earning her bachelor’s degree from a small college, she moved into corporate medical payroll and later into global investment banking. While she built a stable, successful career, the work wasn’t what she wanted to do. Ashleigh found herself yearning for something more. “I was successful, but I didn’t feel fulfilled,” she shared.

Encouraged by her husband, Ashleigh made a bold decision to leave it all behind and return to school to pursue her passion for data analytics. And she knew exactly where she wanted to apply: the information sciences program at UT through Vols Online.

For me, the only choice was the University of Tennessee. It was truly the best decision I could have made for my future.

Ashleigh Ware '25, MSIS

Returning to school after 20 years wasn’t easy. Ashleigh doubted her abilities, recalling her struggles as a younger student. Writing papers, taking tests, and managing coursework felt daunting at first, but Vols Online provided the support she needed. Even though her courses were online, Ashleigh received all the help she needed from her professors, and soon she was in a new educational rhythm: “Online learning has made it possible for me to pursue my degree while maintaining the flexibility I need for life in general. It has given me the freedom to learn at my own pace and from anywhere, which has fostered significant personal growth.” Despite her initial hesitations, Ashleigh maintained a nearly 4.0 GPA throughout her program, a testament to her hard work and the quality of UT’s online education.

For Ashleigh, graduating from UT was about more than earning a degree. It was the culmination of years of perseverance and personal growth. “Becoming a Vol for Life represents more than just earning a degree,” she said. “It symbolizes perseverance, growth, and the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. I’m proud to be part of the Big Orange family, now and always.”

Chasing your dreams takes courage, support, and clear direction, but Ashleigh’s journey proves it’s never too late to start. Her advice to anyone considering going back to school? “Do it. Do it yesterday. It’s so worth it.”