AnnLouise Applewhite

Discovering the Human Side of Technology
AnnLouise Applewhite, an IT professional, discovered a new path in technology when health challenges forced her to reconsider her career. She realized that technology has a human side.

“As my health declined, I had to leave a job I loved. I never thought I’d get into technology, but I learned it can have a human side, especially in the health industry. I want to help keep technology personable. I really want to help hospitals and companies as they transition to new systems and maintain those systems. Now, I’m at Oakton studying Computer Systems and Technology.”

Finding Balance Through Support
As she continued her journey, AnnLouise realized that she didn’t have to do it all alone. At Oakton, she found a strong support network that helped her stay on track and balance her responsibilities. She found a healthy balance between studying and spending time with her son.

“Oakton’s support network, especially my technology professors, helped make this experience less overwhelming. I asked my professor about taking three summer classes to finish up as fast as possible and my professor advised me to take fewer classes. This helped me continue to balance everything. I realized I just needed to keep moving forward, even if it was little by little.”

Small Steps, Big Gains
AnnLouise’s approach to overcoming obstacles is reflected in both her personal life and her career. She believes that every challenge is an opportunity for growth, a mindset she applies to everything she does, including a recent mud run.

“I completed 17 obstacles in a mud run, never stopping. Like my studies, I keep moving forward past each challenge with the goal of doing a little better every time. It’s been hard managing my health issues, working full-time and going to school as a parent, but worth it. My son loves school. When I bring him to campus with me, he sees all that Oakton has to offer and says, 'Oh, this is what college is like.' But I don’t do this just for my son—I do it for myself, too. We’re one, but I’m the one doing the work and taking the classes. So, I just keep moving forward and try to get a little better. Each small step—whether it’s completing a class or crossing the finish line of a mud run—reminds me that I can do this.”

Building a Bright Future
With a future filled with promise, AnnLouise’s goals extend beyond personal success; she’s determined to make a lasting impact locally by helping nonprofits and churches become more tech-savvy. AnnLouise is ready to embrace whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.

“There’s a lot I want to do. I want to help nonprofits and churches become more tech-savvy to promote opportunities in their communities. I enjoy seeing people happy. So if I can assist with making the workplace more positive while making it more productive, I'm pleased. I also want my work to help employers learn where the organization can grow to support their employees.”

“I’ve learned that every challenge brings growth, and I’m ready for what’s next. I want to keep making a difference in my son’s life and in the lives of others. While AI is often seen as the end of human connection in technology, I believe technology still has the power to bring us closer together as human beings.”