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For many of us, the decision to be wives, mothers, and companions over the years has required us to put some of our own personal needs and desires on hold. But there comes a time—usually around age 50—when you say, “Now it’s my turn!” You may be ready to finish that college degree you once started, or perhaps you’re considering a second career instead of retirement. Or, could it be time to re-enter the workforce or move up the career ladder? Do you want to start your own business, but feel you don’t have adequate preparation for entrepreneurship? Online education is a legitimate alternative method of education through which you can obtain your college degree, enroll in personal enrichment courses, and/or take courses to change careers without giving up your day job. Tips for Success
Being successful means knowing your responsibilities as an online student.
As an online educator, I have many baby boomers in my courses. Recently, one of my students said, “I’m in transition from a 33-year, boring insurance career to a new, challenging life as a practicing medicinal herbalist.” This was something she’s thought about for years and, through online education, was able to fulfill her dream. Another student said, “I work at an insurance company and have been there since I was in high school. When the job became full time, I didn’t think I needed to go to college. Well, 35 years later, I realize how important it is to have a degree.” She went on to obtain her teaching degree and now teaches business courses to high school students. Online education can be a stepping stone to fulfilling lifelong dreams, as well as new ones. Sounds good; but you may be thinking, “I don’t have the computer skills to take an online course.” The truth is you don’t have to be a computer expert, but you will need some basic computer skills, such as knowing how to create a word document, being able to send an e-mail with an attachment, and the ability to surf the Web. These are fairly simple skills to learn if you’re not entirely computer savvy, so don’t let that stop you from pursuing your degree or taking classes online. Finding the Right Program Whether you are attending college online or in the classroom, you should be able to have access to the same resources, such as a faculty advisor, financial aid advisor (if applicable), and accessibility to the college library (online, of course) and the writing and math tutorial center. In addition, the other resource that is of utmost importance is technical support. Look for 24/7 technical support services that are accessible via e-mail It’s important to know the requirements of your degree program. The length of online courses can vary. Choose a program that matches your work demands and lifestyle. Ask if your college has a residency requirement—this is where you must attend either a weekend or two-to-three-week session on campus prior to completing your degree. The costs of online degree programs can vary dramatically. Check with your employer to see if they will cover some or all of the costs. These days, most employers acknowledge online degree programs for tuition reimbursement as long as the college is accredited. Online courses from an accredited college need to meet the same standards as a traditional college course. So don’t enter a program thinking that online education is an easy way of obtaining your degree or getting an “A” in class. There is hard work that goes into any type of learning, and online education is no different. Remember, now it’s your turn to pursue your dreams, and online education can make it happen for you. • Click here to read more articles • Susan Deane, a former online student, lives in Connecticut and now teaches and develops online courses for colleges and universities in Colorado, Connecticut, Maine and Pennsylvania. She is also the author of “Online Education: Is It for You?” susandeane@cox.net.
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