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Online Learner Profiles: Steve

Profiles of Real Adult Learners Going Back to School Online

Guide to Online Education > Online Education In-Depth > Meet Real Online Students > Steve, Associate's Degree in General Studies

The level of responsibility in his latest occupation, combined with shifts in management and the general professional climate of the new company prompted him to reconsider a college degree.

"I want to increase my value to the company," he says. Steve made it clear that he did not have a degree when he was hired into his current position. "The CIO didn't feel it was important."

However, he concedes, "In this organization there are those who do value a degree. [Not having one] won't be held against you. But a degree gives you an advantage over another candidate."

Fortunately his superiors and his staff have been very supportive and encouraging. His employer is reimbursing tuition costs, but not textbooks. He estimates the total cost of his degree to be around $3,500 to $4,000.

The responsibilities of running an intranet and networking group within a large credit union, plus household duties would have made it too difficult to earn a degree at a brick and mortar university.

If distance education had not been available, he says, "I would not have pursued my degree."

He has tried hard not to let schoolwork encroach on the time he likes to spend with his wife and daughters aged 13 and 14.

"At first my daughters were concerned that I wouldn't have enough time to help them with their schoolwork," he says. "Now they are proud of me."

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