An old saying goes, “If you want to give God a laugh, then make plans.” Many would be college graduates have found this to be true, as life has often gotten in the way of their educational goals. From lack of financial resources to changing life responsibilities like unplanned pregnancy, fate often closes the doors on college when you least expect it.
Everybody knows that going to college is ideal. It was recently reported that those with a Bachelor degree would earn over a million dollars more in their lifetime than those without. However, if a Bachelor degree is just too unrealistic for you right now, there is always the option of an associate degree online.
Many accredited colleges and universities, from small community colleges to the biggest names in education are instilling online programs as a valid and extremely beneficial way to get promising students through to that goal of a degree. Schools often miss out on bright pupils due to the fact that they just cannot get to the classroom. Allowing the option of an associate degree online helps not only those who have been dealt a tough hand in life, but also broadens the schools’ demographics and areas of achievement.
There are things to consider when deciding if an associate degree online is the right path for you to take. First and foremost, remember that online courses can be just as challenging as traditional classroom sections, and sometimes even more so. This is because getting an associate’s degree online commands a high amount of discipline and commitment.
Another thing to consider is the mode of communication available to you. Oftentimes you can go through an entire course without ever meeting your instructor or fellow students face to face. It’s essential that you have proper email etiquette and are able to express yourself properly through words. You don’t have to be a Pulitzer Prize winning novelist to get the job done, but it does help to be well versed in online communication. Being able to say what you want to say without being able to physically speak will bring you great success in online discussion group chat sessions and with emails to your instructor and fellow classmates.
Earning an associate degree online may require tight deadlines that are non-negotiable. You must have reliable computer access and transportation to onsite tests when necessary. Again, it is important to stress the fact that online degrees are not an easy way out. They are for students just as committed as those who sit in lecture halls each and every day.
Lastly, you must know what the online associate degree will get you. Make sure your college of choice accredited. If it’s not, it is in your best interest to choose a school that is. Employers look upon accredited programs much more highly and when you enter the workforce you will want to be taken seriously. Don’t waste your time or money on a school that won’t be able to properly train you for the career in which you plan to enter.
Many people believe that an associate degree is a worthless commodity, however it has helped to raise the salaries and lifestyle of countless Americans across the nation that otherwise would be struggling along with merely a high school diploma.
Pursuing any form of higher education shows businesses that you care about your future and you are filling it with all of the knowledge that your life will afford. An online associate degree is a great way to say to potential employers, life has been tough but I did not give up. I am determined to take my education as far as it will allow, and the same ambition and hard-working mentality will be applied to the position that I’d like to have in your company.
An associate degree online program gives you the practice in devotion and discipline that you need to be successful in the real world where jobs are scarce and offices are more competitive than ever before. Get going on the right track by gaining a quality education online today.
