Your Enrollment Journey to MSU Denver Online Starts with a Conversation

A First-Generation College Trailblazer

Kayla always knew college was part of her journey — precisely because no one in her family had taken that path before.

“I was doing AP classes in high school and just felt strongly about continuing my education,” she says. “I knew it was a journey I had to figure out on my own.”

That experience shaped her — not just as a student, but as someone who understands what it’s like to feel uncertain about how to get started. She had no family to help her navigate the system.

That empathy shows up every day in her work with prospective MSU Denver students.

From Teaching Overseas to Supporting Online Learners

After earning her degree in English from Flagler College, Kayla took her love of education abroad, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) in South Korea.

“It started as a one-year contract — and I ended up staying for three and a half years,” she says. “I loved connecting with people from other cultures. I learned so much through conversations — about education, language, and life.”

That same spirit of connection now drives her work helping students navigate online enrollment at MSU Denver. Whether it’s a working parent finishing a degree or an active-duty service member trying to figure out transfer credits, Kayla brings patience, understanding, and a plan.

Making the Online Enrollment Journey Easier — One Student at a Time

Kayla’s role as an Online Enrollment Specialist is focused on building relationships and guiding students through a process that can feel overwhelming.

“I love those connections and conversations,” she says. “That’s what I’ve always enjoyed most — just talking with people and helping them find their education path.”

From tech support questions to degree planning, Kayla is often the first friendly voice someone hears when reaching out to MSU Denver Online. She’s helped students all over the world take that first step — including lots of other first-generation college students.

“I helped a woman with cerebral palsy achieve her online education dreams,” Kayla says. “It took time and looking at things in a new way, but it was so worth it. We still exchange holiday cards. I’m here to help people no matter their challenges find the right options for them.”

Every day, she’s guiding people to scholarships, financial aid, documents (such as transcripts), and into programs.

And yes — sometimes those conversations involve food. “Cooking! I love talking about food. Food is so universal – everyone can connect over it,” she laughs. “If someone’s baking bread, I’m always asking, ‘What kind?’ It just brings people together.”

Ready to Start Your Education Journey?

If you’re thinking about college — or coming back to finish what you started — Kayla’s here to help. Whether you’re in Colorado, overseas, or anywhere in between, she’ll help you figure it out step by step.

“I’m here so people can achieve their dreams. It goes beyond just enrolling students online,” she says. “What a fantastic purpose! I always tell people it’s possible. I’m just here to give people options and help them get to the right spot so they feel confident in their online learning.”

Learn more about our online programs, scholarships on transfer or entry (and every semester after), and more. Maybe she’ll ask you a question about your favorite food.