Kristi McNerlin and Maggie Hessel Mial both work full time in the communications department for the Blue Valley School District and as you might guess, well, they communicate.

From the day that Maggie said she was going back to school for her master's degree at the KU Edwards Campus, Kristi couldn't get the idea out of her mind. It was almost like having a song stuck in your head – you hear that music over and over. After a quick inventory of courses offered at the Edwards Campus, Kristi made her decision: She and Maggie would go back together.

Maggie actually had considered going back for a while, but always seemed to find an excuse not to. "Once I had a friend/colleague to go through the whole process with, I ignored the excuses and applied," she said.

Both women are currently working toward a Masters of Science in Journalism, with a concentration in Marketing Communications. They agree that furthering their education will help them not only professionally, but also personally.

Maggie says she loves the convenience of the KU Edwards Campus, and knowing there are many other working adults in her classes. "I live and work in Overland Park and it's a great relief to know I get a high–quality KU education without having to drive to Lawrence," she said.

"The comfortable, small learning environment makes you feel like part of a small family," adds Kristi. A wife and mother of two, Kristi's kids keep her busy and tend to have many activities in the evening. Kristi says she's lucky they are supportive of their mom missing a game or two to attend classes.

"I'm excited to about going back to school with Maggie," she says. "It's great to know I have a study buddy for the duration of this journey."