ASU Online grad embraces creativity, lifelong learning while pursuing dream of becoming a professor
Carol Higgins will graduate this fall with a degree in interdisciplinary arts and performance from ASU's New College. Courtesy photo
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Carol Higgins is a remarkable example of the power of lifelong learning and creative exploration. At 50 years old, Higgins embodies resilience, curiosity and the pursuit of excellence as she graduates with a degree in interdisciplinary arts and performance from Arizona State University’s New College. Her journey is as diverse as her talents — spanning roles as a systems analyst in the military, a drone pilot, a mother of four and a passionate artist who draws inspiration from her global travels.
Higgins' creative process is deeply personal, often rooted in poetry and music, and her ability to transform emotion into art is both inspiring and authentic. Her journey through grief and challenges has fueled her artistic vision, culminating in innovative projects like her capstone, which blends animation and rotoscoping to tell powerful stories.
Balancing multiple creative disciplines with a commitment to personal growth, Higgins' story underscores the value of education not just as a tool for career advancement but as a transformative life experience. With dreams of becoming a professor and continuing to inspire others, Higgins is a shining example of how it’s never too late to pursue one’s passions and make an impact.
Note: Answers have been edited for length and clarity.
Question: What inspired you to pursue a degree in interdisciplinary arts and performance?
Answer: It was quite an unexpected journey. My husband and I were driving for Uber Eats when he reached the milestone that qualified us for their tuition program. He encouraged me to pursue a degree, and while exploring options, I found myself torn between music and photography. I couldn’t pick just one because I love doing a little bit of everything. That’s when I discovered the interdisciplinary arts and performance program. It felt like the perfect fit — an opportunity to blend all my passions into one cohesive study.
Q: How did New College shape your academic journey?
A: What stood out most to me was learning about the creative process — not just creating art but understanding and embracing the emotional and technical journey behind it. New College has taught me to appreciate art as a transformative process, both for the creator and the audience.
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Carol Higgins with an instructor at Peggy Porschen, an iconic London landmark to cake lovers all over the world.
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Carol's inspiring, creative atelier in South Carolina.
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Work by Carol Higgins at Peggy Porschen in London, demonstrating that she finds creativity in everything she does.
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Higgins in front of the Eiffel Tower while visiting Paris.
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Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson?
A: One professor who deeply influenced me was Professor (Marianne) Kim, my mentor for my capstone project. She taught me to “get out of my way.” I tend to be a perfectionist, holding tightly to my vision for every piece I create. She helped me understand that sometimes it’s OK to let go of ideas that don’t serve the story or the larger narrative. It was a transformative lesson in embracing experimentation and growth.
Q: What advice would you give to someone considering going back to school later in life?
A: It’s never too late. The best advice I can offer is to embrace the learning process and allow yourself to make mistakes. At this stage in life, we often think we’ve seen and done it all, but there’s always more to learn. Be open to new experiences, absorb as much as you can and focus on personal growth rather than just the outcome. Education is a journey, not just a means to an end.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I plan to continue my educational journey by pursuing a master’s degree and eventually a doctorate. In 10 years, I hope to be teaching and sharing the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained with future students. Becoming a professor or Dr. Carol Higgins feels like a dream, but one that I am steadily working toward.
Q: How do you balance your diverse creative interests and projects?
A: Balance is a tricky word — I’d say it’s more about managing the flow of inspiration and energy. Creativity pulls me in different directions, but my time at New College has taught me to focus and finish what I start. Whether it’s music, painting or writing, I’ve learned to bring my ideas to completion while leaving space for future inspirations.
Q: What would you say to those who question the value of a college education?
A: College is worth it, not just for the degree but for the personal transformation it brings. It’s an experience that changes you, challenges you and enriches your life. My advice? Don’t focus solely on the job you’ll get afterward. Choose courses and experiences that resonate with you and enhance your journey. Education is about growth, and that’s invaluable.
Q: How has your creative process evolved?
A: My creative process often begins with a strong emotion or idea, which I translate into poetry or music. From there, it might evolve into a painting, a screenplay or another form of art. The process is deeply personal, yet it’s something I’ve learned to refine and structure through my studies. My capstone project, for instance, involved exploring animation and rotoscoping to tell my story uniquely. Every project teaches me something new.
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