Pursuing an Online Degree: My Top 3 Insights from the Journey
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Chapter 1: The Shift to Online Learning
The pursuit of higher education has become more accessible than ever.
As a professional with a demanding travel schedule, the traditional classroom setup was not feasible for me. In 2014, I made the decision to pursue a degree, starting with only a handful of credit hours. Over the course of 8 years, I successfully earned an associate's degree, a bachelor's degree, and an MBA. Along the way, I have also guided others in starting or completing their educational paths.
My experiences with various universities, both traditional and online, have been diverse. I have attended classes at different institutions, taken courses through the University of Phoenix and Western Governor’s University, and provided mentorship to students at community colleges and online programs. Here are some key insights I gained during this journey.
Section 1.1: The Importance of Fit Over Prestige
Initially, I believed that the name of the university would significantly impact my career prospects. However, I soon realized that the value of the degree lay in completing it rather than its source. Nearly ten years later, I have successfully applied for jobs, been hired, and even attracted the attention of recruiters. The pride I feel in my degrees comes from the achievements they have facilitated.
While attending prestigious institutions like Harvard or Yale can offer advantages, for most, the focus should be on finding a school that aligns with personal circumstances and financial considerations.
Section 1.2: Online Learning vs. Traditional Schools
Many traditional universities now offer online courses, but they often lag behind institutions designed specifically for online education.
The reality is that while many traditional schools are embracing online formats, their approach can sometimes feel like an afterthought. Schools like the University of Phoenix and Western Governors University have been dedicated to online education for years, creating a robust infrastructure for virtual learning.
My experiences with traditional schools transitioning to online classes have been underwhelming. Often, these courses felt hastily assembled, and there were instances where students were required to buy textbooks from campus bookstores. Furthermore, instructors frequently lacked the expertise to effectively manage online learning environments.
Chapter 2: The Reality of Online Education
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Section 2.1: The Misconception of Ease
It's a common belief that online courses are easier than their in-person counterparts. However, this is a misconception. The primary advantage of online classes is their flexibility, yet succeeding in this format demands a high level of discipline and self-motivation.
Taking full ownership of your educational journey can be liberating, but the lack of direct interaction may pose challenges for some learners. While online programs often provide a structured learning environment, active engagement with the course material is essential for success.
Section 2.2: The Value of Commitment
We often encounter individuals with impressive degrees who struggle with basic tasks. This illustrates that obtaining a degree often reflects perseverance more than sheer intelligence.
Before embarking on your educational journey, reflect on your motivations for going back to school. Engaging deeply with the coursework is crucial for success. As someone who thrives on self-motivation, I found that online learning was an ideal fit for me. If you are dedicated to personal development and ready to take charge of your educational path, online schooling might just be your best option.