From "Too Late" to Student Trustee: Pamela Tucker's Inspiring Return to Education

Episode 18 of the Edison Sound Stage Podcast

Listen as Pamela Tucker overcame years away from school to earn her degree and represent thousands of students on TESU's Board of Trustees.

"You will be 60 with or without a degree."

Nine words that changed everything. In this special episode of Edison Sound Stage (our first-ever sit-down video podcast!), meet Pamela Tucker — Thomas Edison State University's newest student trustee who returned to the classroom years later, all while maintaining her full-time position at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory.

Join us for an intimate conversation about transformation, perseverance and why it's never too late to pursue your educational dreams.

Listen to Episode 18

Available on: Apple Podcasts | Podbean | YouTube

Episode Length: 49 minutes | Perfect for: Your commute, workout or lunch break

What You'll Discover in This Episode

The Moment Everything Changed

With more than 20 years of administrative experience, including working directly for a CEO, Pamela Tucker had built a successful career. But something was calling her back to the classroom.

"I always had something in me that wanted to go back to school," Tucker shares, thinking of her blue-collar parents who always dreamed their youngest daughter would earn a degree.

The catalyst? A colleague's simple observation that would reshape Tucker's entire perspective on timing and opportunity.

Watch for the full story that prompted her return to school.

An Unexpected Turn: From Student to Leader

After earning her associate degree, Tucker received shocking news about how close she was to her bachelor's degree. Then came an even bigger surprise — a nomination that would change her university experience entirely.

"I was honored, shocked and honored," Tucker recalls about the moment she learned she'd been nominated for student trustee.

Watch to learn how this nomination came about.

Real Talk: Balancing It All

How does someone juggle a demanding full-time job, marriage and college coursework? Tucker gets refreshingly honest about the challenges — including what her husband had to endure.

"Shout out to my husband who had a lot of leftovers while I was getting my associate degree," she laughs, before sharing the specific strategies that made it all possible.

In the episode, Tucker reveals her exact study schedule, the unexpected study technique involving her phone and the one thing her husband does that makes all the difference.

The Hidden Credits Discovery

One of the most encouraging revelations in Tucker's journey might apply to you, too. After investigating her past educational history, she discovered something that cut her path to graduation nearly in half.

Could you already be closer to your degree than you think? Listen to find out what Tucker discovered and her specific advice for uncovering your own hidden credits.

The Commencement Moment That Says It All

Walking across the stage at TESU's commencement wasn't just about receiving a diploma. For Tucker, serving on the dais as the newest student trustee brought unexpected emotions and a powerful moment of reflection about her parents.

The story she shares about what her parents would have said will move you to tears — and might remind you of your own "why."

What She Wants Every Adult Learner to Know

Tucker doesn't sugarcoat the challenges, but her advice for hesitant adult learners is both practical and deeply encouraging. From the power of starting with just one class to finding your support system, she shares hard-won wisdom from her journey.

But there's one piece of advice that changed everything for her — something a friend told her that she "couldn't get out of [her] head." This conversation might be exactly what you need to hear today.

The Ripple Effect Continues

Now just five classes away from her bachelor's degree in communications, Tucker's influence extends far beyond her own education. Her mission as student trustee focuses on breaking down barriers and creating connections among TESU's diverse student body.

Want to hear Tucker's vision for student support and her surprising idea for bringing online students together? She shares her full platform in the episode.

Don't Miss This Conversation

This isn't just another success story — it's a roadmap for anyone who's ever thought "maybe it's too late" or "I've been away too long." Tucker's journey from hesitant adult learner to student trustee is filled with practical advice, honest moments and the kind of encouragement that could change your life.

Watch the full video podcast on YouTube or listen on your favorite podcast platform to discover:

• The exact words that motivated Tucker to return to school after decades
• Her surprising discovery about transfer credits (this could save you years!)
• The daily schedule that makes work, life and school possible
• The emotional commencement moment that had the entire arena erupting
• Practical tips you can implement today if you're considering returning to school

Listen or watch the full episode of Edison Sound Stage below.

Start Your Own Journey

After listening to Tucker's story, ready to take the first step?

• Learn about TESU’s degree programs for busy adults like you
• Explore scholarship opportunities
• Connect with admissions and enrollment