Learning Online in College Forums

Going to school online afforded me the option to continue doing all the things that I was already doing in my life, such as managing my "All original rock and roll band, as well as continuing to act as Vice President for our small construction company. Because I had no commute for school, I had time for my family, friends and taking care of my home. Being home with my teenager while I was attending college online was important. I found I could attend school remotely via online distance learning before I went to work, at lunch, or after dinner with my family. I liked the flexibility, and the fact that I could fit it going to school online amidst my current obligations. With Post University, I found a small home type atmosphere. The instructors were affable and knowledgeable, and the online classroom forums, cozy and intimate. However, after about two and a half years, I found the course selection too limited and the eight week semester, too slow. I investigated other options and that lead me to Phoenix University. At Phoenix University, I found a much more diverse campus that was catering to international students and corporations. Class availability was greatly improved and the classroom forum was advanced. I met students and instructors from all over the world. Part of the requirement for distance learning at UOP is that students work as individuals as well as on teams. My struggle with this approach at first was that I didn't want someone else to impact my grade. I had a 4.0 GPA from Teikyo Post, and was part of the Phi Theta Kappa society (high honors) and I didn't want someone else's actions to jeopardize my grade. Later on, during my fourth course online, Algebra threw me for a loop and I learned to appreciate the team environment, crediting my UOP teammates with helping me get through that very difficult learning curve. In ten years, I have tripled my salary and improved my marketability. Getting a college education while maintaining my already full life, including being available for my teenager, was extremely important to me. My experiences with UOP, taking online college courses has been incredibly worthwhile. First I got my associates, then my Bachelor's of Science Marketing Degree, and by May, 2010, I should have my MBA in Global Management. There are huge benefits for attending college online, not to mention the benefits of earning a formal degree. The medium of learning online, the influence of diverse, international opinions, the ability to network worldwide, in an advanced online forum are truly additional perks that provide today's student's with a huge advantage in the business world of tomorrow.