Posts Tagged ‘BackToLearn.com’
Tuesday, April 13th, 2010
You look around the classroom, pencil poised and mind open. You’re a college student again!
But then you get the sinking feeling that not only are you the oldest student in class, but that you are likely the same age as most of the students’ parents.
If you’re heading back to college at a traditional undergraduate on-campus program, it is possible that you may be the oldest student in your classes.
But who cares? You shouldn’t. Remember, once you’re in college, you are, for all intents and purposes, an adult—whether you’re 21 or 41.
These aren’t kids you’re in school with; they are now your peers.
Here are some benefits of being an adult learner:
* You have a good idea what you want to do with your degree after graduation.
* You have more experience balancing life, work and school commitments than younger people do.
* You get to be a role model to your family, your children, and the other students at the college.
* You don’t have to deal with some of the social pressures that some of your younger fellow students face during college.
* You can draw from life experiences to illustrate class concepts and essay topics.
* You can apply what you’re learning in class directly to your job.
* At the end of a long week, you can (legally) kick back with a cocktail, unlike the other underclassmen!
Hope that last one made you smile!
What has your experience been? Have you been the oldest in any of your classes?
Tags: adult learner, BackToLearn.com, going back to college, inspiration for adult learners, oldest student in class, why you should be an adult learner
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Friday, March 12th, 2010
College tuition is one of those items that always seems to be increasing.
Why?
Check out this article for details.
There are some ways you can help pay for college, though. One is by asking your employer to help you!
Have you had any luck getting tuition reimbursement from your employer? Share your story in the comments section below!
Tags: adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, cost, financial aid, tuition, tuition for adults, tuition increase
Posted in Blog, Financial Aid | No Comments »
Monday, February 1st, 2010
I tested out of college math and had enough credit from high school to skip having to take French.
But after reading through WhatWillTheyLearn.com—A guide to what college rankings don’t tell you, I’m wondering if I did myself a disservice… (Although, on the math front, I’m thinking no.)
The folks at WhatWillTheyLearn.com graded colleges based on, among other things, the classes they require for students to earn a degree. They frown upon colleges letting students, for example, fulfill a math requirement with a music class.
They do have a point.
I really wish I’d taken a class to learn more about the Constitution and how government works instead of fulfilling a college history requirement with “The history of science.” Not that there’s not a place for the history of science—just that the other kind of knowledge might have served me better in my everyday life.
Sure, much of a student’s course selection is up to the student. But maybe this report teaches us to embrace the opportunities for classic education. And to change your attitude when you have to pass, say, a seemingly random history class on your way to a degree.
Check out this excerpt from WhatWillTheyLearn.com:
“…We evaluate whether major colleges and universities require seven key subjects: English composition, literature, foreign language, U.S. government or history, economics, mathematics, and science.
What we found is alarming. …Topics like U.S. government or history, literature, mathematics, and economics have become mere options on far too many campuses. Not surprisingly, students are graduating with great gaps in their knowledge—and employers are noticing. If not remedied, this will have significant consequences for U.S. competiveness and innovation.”
(Tragic: They misspelled “competitiveness”. Oh, the irony.)
Tags: adult learner requirements, adult learners, BackToLearn.com, college classes for adults, college degree requirements, Laura Hammond, prerequisites for college degree, WhatWillTheyLearn
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 20th, 2010
If you’re trying to decide between online or on-campus learning—or aren’t sure of the pros and cons of each—check out the descriptions of common teaching styles below from Western Governors University.
Traditional college courses: Led by instructors, are delivered online, requiring students to attend at prescribed times and sometimes requiring group projects. School terms are generally divided into traditional semesters or quarters, and students may only start work on their degrees at the beginning of these terms. Students earn credit for time spent in class and completion of assignments, projects, and tests.
Competency-based programs: Provide students with learning resources in degree subject matter, allowing students to study and learn on their own schedules, advancing in their degrees as they demonstrate mastery of the content through tests and other assessments rather than simply spending time in class.
Combined online/traditional programs: Require students to attend class both online and in person.
BackToLearn.com’s college search tool includes both online and on-campus programs. Which will you choose?
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, bachelors degree, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, college planning, college search tool, Laura Jeanne Hammond, on campus classes, online classes, online degree, teaching styles, Western Governor's University
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010
When you’re looking for a college, attend the information sessions, and don’t hesitate to drill the admissions reps present. After all, it’s serious time and money you’re about to put in to college.
To get to know a college better, Gary Brahm, chancellor of Brandman University, suggests:
• Using social networks to see what current and past students say about the college.
• Ask employers in the field about their perceptions of the program.
• Ask the college about graduation rates, prominent alumni and special programs.
Looking for a college? Check here.
Tags: academic programs, adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, Brand, Chapman University, college, college interviews, employers in the workplace, Gary Brahm, interviewing colleges, Laura Jeanne Hammond, researching colleges, social networks, what college should I go to
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Monday, January 11th, 2010
The National Association of College Stores (NACS) has some great suggestions on how to be smart about buying textbooks for college.
Check out their suggestions:
* Buy used books when possible. They can save you 25% off the cost of a new textbook. College stores strive to provide as many used textbooks as possible, but they often sell out quickly. Shop the store early or buy directly from your college store’s web site to take advantage of used book sales.
* Consider renting or purchasing electronic texts. More and more college stores are offering these options, which give cost-conscious students temporary access to course materials for about one-third to half the price of buying a new text.
* Find out if your campus bookstore has a page on Facebook; become a fan and follow them on Twitter. Often the store will give advance notice of moneysaving specials to followers or fans.
* Don’t forget to include shipping expenses in the total cost of the textbook. To avoid delays, check your college store’s Web site for ordering convenience and peace of mind.
* Know your store’s refund policy, especially deadlines. This way, you won’t be disappointed if you drop a class.
* Keep receipts. Most stores require them for returns. Also, textbook receipts are helpful during tax season when filing for the new American Opportunity Tax Credit.
* Don’t write in or unwrap books until you’re certain you’ll be keeping them.
* If you have a choice between buying a textbook by itself, or packaged with a study guide or software, make sure you need the extra offerings.
* When buying locally, consider paying cash or by check/debit card to avoid credit card fees and interest. But use a credit card when buying from online sellers in case disputes arise.
* If you have questions, ask!
Once you make the decision to go back to learn, you’ll be able to save tons on textbooks!
Tags: adult learner, BackToLearn.com, buying books, college books, financial aid, National Association of College Stores, textbooks
Posted in Blog, Financial Aid | 1 Comment »
Wednesday, January 6th, 2010
It took double my normal commute time to get home last night. And it has been snowing consistently in my city for going on 96 hours!
Yep, it’s definitely winter in the Northeast!
For all you others in the snowy north, don’t online classes sound pretty plum right about now?
Only one drawback: No surprise snow days!
Tags: adult learner, adults back to school, bachelors degree, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, benefits of online degrees, Laura Jeanne Hammond, online degree, should you do online degree, taking online classes
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Monday, January 4th, 2010
When my husband went back to college to complete his bachelor’s degree, I did more than my fair share of nagging.
Big mistake.
Here’s my biggest advice for those with spouses heading back to college: Let them do it with minimal nagging from you.
That doesn’t mean your spouse doesn’t have your support, your help or your attention. It just means that you need to remember that it’s they, not you, who are a student again. It means they, not you, have to worry about exams, deadlines and homework. They, not you, need to stress about completing assignments the best they can.
Your spouse has made the decision to go back to college. Give them the support and encouragement they need—without adding to the stress!
Tags: adult learner, advice for going back to college, advice for spouses, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, Laura Jeanne Hammond, married in college, spouse in college
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 22nd, 2009
I’m working hard to finish up a few projects before the office clears out for the next week and a half.
I stayed up late last night to wrap presents when I just really needed to sleep.
I am looking at all my deadlines in the first week of January and…
…Taking a deep breath. I’ll prepare for them, sure, but ’tis the season to stop and rest, not worry and stress.
It’s such a rare gift when your office, your family, your country disconnects, gathers with loved ones and takes a break. But when the gift is presented, take it. Take the time to stop and rest.
What did you do this past year about which you’re most proud? What do you want to do in the coming year?
I hope your answer revolves around your education. Now’s the time to start thinking about going back to learn.
Start your new year off with a plan—and get ready to achieve it!
Happy holidays from BackToLearn.com!
Tags: academic programs, adult at college, adult learner, back to learn, back to school, BackToLearn.com, happy holidays, Laura Hammond, new year
Posted in Blog, Inspiration | No Comments »
Tuesday, December 15th, 2009
Even if you choose to attend college online, you still want to be advised and cared for as if you were a traditional student living in the dorms.
Western Governors University suggests asking these questions before enrolling to make sure you’ll be connected on campus—whether you’re on campus or online.
- Is each student assigned an advisor or mentor?
- How often will the student be able to communicate with an advisor, and who will be available to provide extra help and support if needed?
- Is there an online student community?
- Are there learning communities for specific degree programs?
- Are online study groups available?
Tags: adult learner, adult student advising, bachelors degree, back to learn, BackToLearn.com, college advisers, connecting to campus, Laura Hammond, online degree, online learning
Posted in Blog, Choosing a College | No Comments »
Saturday, December 12th, 2009
Remember when contacting a professor was a big deal?
You used to think, “Will she remember who I am?” “Is this a stupid question?” “Is this something I should ask him in person, or is by e-mail OK?”
I remember needing to ask the dean of my department a question. I made an appointment, got there early, sweated out my anxiety and got an answer.
That’s totally old school, and I didn’t even graduate that long ago.
Those days of agonizing over interactions with college authority figures are pretty much over. Today, I could have just e-mailed him. And maybe, I wouldn’t have even used capital letters. (Although, for a journalism major, that would’ve been scandalous.)
Have you “friended” your college? IMed an admissions rep? E-mailed a professor? Signed up for your college’s Twitter account?
What do you expect out of your college through social media?
Check out this article from Inside Higher Ed for a look at it from the college’s side, and leave a comment about how far you’ve friended your school!
Tags: BackToLearn.com, college planning, colleges on Facebook, e-mailing professors, how to friend a college, Inside Higher Ed, Laura Jeanne Hammond, social media
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
Friday, October 30th, 2009
If you’re looking to go back to college for a change of career, check out these careers that MORE magazine has decided are the best for women over 40.
Here’s their list of the top jobs (and how much you can earn). Click on each job to find out where to study the major that can get you into that field!
1. Community Service Coordinator/Manager: Most earn $42,110 to $73,470, with the top 10% making $96,000+. This field is expected to grow 48% by 2016. You’ll need a BA and passion for a cause.
2. Personal Financial Adviser: Earn between $46,390 to $119,290, with the top 10% making $166,000+. This is one of the 10 fastest growing occupations; it’s projected to boom 41% by 2016. Perfect for those with a solid business background plus education in the field. You’ll probably also need Series 7 and Series 63 or 66 licenses.
3. Environmental Scientist: Most earn $4,340 to $78,980, top 10% make $103,000+. The field is expected to grow 25% by 2016. Most positions require a master’s degree in environmental science, hydrology or a related science.
4. Registered Nurse: Salaries range from $51,640 to $76,570, with the top 10% making $92,000+. A projected 587,000 new nursing jobs will be created by 2016. You’ll need a BS or associate’s degree in nursing, or a diploma from an approved nursing program.
5. Computer and Information Systems Manager: Most earn $88,240 to $141,890, with the top 10% making $166,000+. This field will add 43,000 jobs by 2016. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree and sometimes a master’s degree—consider an MBA with a focus in technology.
6. Education Administrator: Earn between $68,360 to $102,830, the top 10% can expect $125,000+. Why now? Many will retire in the next decade. You’ll need experience as a teacher or in a field such as recruiting. Some positions require a master’s degree.
7. Strategic/Crisis Communication Professional: Salaries range from $38,400 to $71,670, the top 10% make $98,000+. This field is expected to create 43,000 new jobs by 2016, and you’ll need public relations experience.
8. Accountant: Expect to earn $45,900 to $78,210, top 10% $102,000+. The field will grow 18% by 2016, adding 226,000 jobs, and these positions are available in every industry. You’ll need a degree in accounting or a related field. You have to pass an exam to become a CPA.
9. Human Resources Specialist: Most earn $35,020 to $67,730, top 10% earn $84,000+. There will be 147,000 new specialist jobs created by 2016. To specialize you may need an MBA with a focus in HR management.
10. Small-Scale Niche Farmer: Make $26,800 to $76,230, top 10% earn $97,000+. Why now? Small farms are growing at a rate of 10,000 a year. No prerequisites here—training is done on the job.
Tags: adult learners, BackToLearn.com, career change, careers, careers for women, changing careers, job change, Laura Jeanne Hammond, more magazine
Posted in Blog, Careers | No Comments »
Monday, October 12th, 2009
So you’ve decided that going back to school is looking like a pretty good idea. Congrats!
In an economy that feels pretty low on the love lately, one thing’s kinda nice: Colleges want you.
Think about it—you’ve got life experience, a hunger for a degree, money to pay for it, and a clear vision of how you’re going to make your education work.
You’re not exactly a high risk for partying too hard on a weeknight.
In fact, you’re one amazing alumni in the works.
So be prepared: When you say “yes!” to more info from a college, they’re going to reach out to you. Fast. They know you’re ready for them—and want to be there for you.
So when a college calls—both literally and figuratively—don’t send ‘em to voicemail. Will you be there, ready to say YES?
Tags: are you ready for college, BackToLearn.com, college calling adult learners, college calls, going back to college, Laura Hammond
Posted in Blog | No Comments »
