Overcoming Challenges: Kevin Sellon Talks Disabilities, Graduate School, and Advocacy

Graduate school is a transformative journey for many, but for Kevin Sellon, it became a bridge between his military service, personal challenges, and his passion for making a difference in the lives of others. In a recent episode of the Victors in Grad School podcast, Dr. Christopher Lewis sat down with Kevin, a master’s student in public administration at the University of Michigan Flint, to discuss his challenges and triumphs. Kevin shared invaluable insights about his decision to pursue graduate education, balancing life with a disability, and how his education empowered him for meaningful work in advocacy.

The Decision to Pursue Graduate Education
Kevin’s path to graduate school was shaped by personal and professional experiences. After earning his associate’s and bachelor’s degrees, Kevin expected the doors of opportunity to open wide, but his journey took an unexpected turn when a job offer was rescinded due to his military-related disability. This experience sparked Kevin’s resolve to better understand disability laws and advocate for others in similar situations. Supported by his family—particularly his wife—Kevin decided to pursue his long-standing goal of earning a master’s degree. His choice also resonated with his passion for helping others, finding new purpose after military service, and advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Selecting the Right Program
Choosing the University of Michigan Flint was both strategic and serendipitous for Kevin. After considering a few options, including Grand Valley State University, he was elated to receive his acceptance letter from U of M Flint. He admired the institution’s academic excellence and flexibility, especially its distance-learning programs, which suited his needs both as a nontraditional student and an individual with a service-related disability. For Kevin, gaining acceptance felt like the beginning of a dream fulfilled—a step closer to achieving his master’s degree.

Adapting to Graduate School Life
Kevin’s journey back into academia posed challenges, especially after an educational gap and balancing family, work, and school commitments. To set himself up for success, Kevin emphasized time management and self-care. By taking small, consistent steps—such as dedicating even fifteen minutes a day to projects—and allowing time to digest information, Kevin found ways to stay motivated. He highlighted the importance of stepping back to recharge, spending time with loved ones, and not overwhelming oneself with too much at once. These strategies helped him navigate the complexities of graduate education.

Disability Advocacy and Professional Growth
As an employee of Disability Advocates of Kent County, Kevin directly applies what he learns in his master’s program to his role. He educates both employers and individuals about ADA laws, ensuring mutual understanding and compliance. Beyond this, Kevin is spearheading a veteran-focused program where he assists veterans in managing their care and remaining in their homes—a fitting endeavor given his background and passion. His education has enhanced his ability to view problems holistically, process complex information, and meaningfully contribute to his organization.

Advice for Future Graduate Students
Kevin emphasized the importance of seeking personal growth, even when faced with adversity. For individuals with disabilities, he encouraged them to take th