Although Sarah Pinnock had 15 years experience in environmental education, she had never attended college and therefore had fewer career options: "I found it increasingly difficult to find jobs that did not require at least a bachelor's degree, and I realized I was limiting myself by not having a degree.

"I can honestly say I have the job of my dreams, and I would not have been able to apply for it if I hadn't completed my Bachelor of Arts in Science at Marylhurst." Sarah is now a wetlands education specialist at Jackson Bottoms Wetland Preserve.

Marylhurst's mature student body, small class size, and Prior Learning Assessment program created the perfect fit for Sarah's educational and career needs. She earned 45 undergraduate credits in the PLA program, the maximum allowed, by demonstrating college-level knowledge she had acquired on-the-job.

In May 2008, Sarah was recognized as an "exceptional nature educator" by Tualatin Riverkeepers. The organization awarded her the 2008 Green Heron Award at its annual gala event.