Cancer Survivor Earns Master's Degree with 3.94 GPA

Christine Epple walked across the graduation stage at Grand View University last Sunday with more than a master's degree in her hands. She carried proof that cancer couldn't stop her dreams.

The Iowa graduate completed her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling while undergoing cancer treatment. During those same two years, she worked full time as a social worker and finished her internship at Cornerstone Counseling Center.

Her GPA? A stunning 3.938.

Christine never let her diagnosis become an excuse to pause her education. Instead, she showed up to classes, supported her clients, and kept pushing forward even on her hardest days.

Her professors and classmates watched her navigate chemotherapy and coursework with equal determination. They saw her transform personal pain into deeper empathy for the people she would one day counsel.

Why This Inspires

Christine's journey proves that our most difficult seasons can prepare us for our greatest purpose. The same experience that tested her strength also gave her unique insight into human suffering and resilience.

Her lived experience with cancer will now inform every counseling session she leads. Clients struggling through their darkest moments will sit across from someone who truly understands what it means to fight.

Grand View faculty say Christine often spoke about how the university community supported her through treatment. That sense of being held up by others will shape how she holds space for her own clients.

Before her diploma was even framed, Christine secured a full time position at 515 Therapy and Consulting. She'll begin her counseling career this month, turning years of personal struggle into professional purpose.

Her story reminds us that obstacles don't have to derail our dreams. Sometimes they redirect us toward exactly where we're meant to be, with exactly the wisdom we need to help others.

Christine crossed that stage as a graduate, a survivor, and a counselor ready to change lives.