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Guide to Online Education > Online Education In-Depth > Meet Real Online Students > Nicole S., Online M.B.A.
Meet Nicole
Name: Nicole Sabatini
Age: 29
Marital Status: Single
Children: Two daughters, 2 and 4
Employer: Chicago Public Schools
Personal Quote: If it weren’t for the option of online courses, I can honestly say that I very likely would not have even finished my Bachelor’s degree yet, let alone be almost halfway done with my Master’s.
School: University of Phoenix
Target: M.B.A., April 2008
Can you estimate what your MBA degre will cost you in total?
Approximately $50,000. I am paying with student loans.
What would you say is the best thing about an online degree?
Not having to attend a physical classroom and being home while still gaining an education.
And what do you think is the worst aspect of an online degree?
If I had to pick something, I guess, I'd say that there is no personal (face-to-face) contact with classmates and instructors. Sometimes I miss it, but overall, it's not a deal-breaker.
What did you find most surprising about distance learning?
How much you can learn by essentially teaching yourself.
What do you think is the biggest myth about online learning or an online degree?
That an online degree is somehow not a REAL degree. Having earned my bachelor’s online and now my MBA, I'm living proof that it's legitimate!
What advice would you give to prospective students who are also thinking about distance learning?
Manage your time well and be sure that you are a self-motivated person. Deadlines and assignments are set, and the student is the only one who can make themselves meet the deadlines.
What have you learned about yourself throughout this process?
I have learned that I can do whatever I have to in order to complete my education. It was important to me to finish school, and I did just that despite the many roadblocks I endured. My own personal motivation and the desire to provide for my children was a more powerful driver than I could have imagined.
Anything else you'd like to add?
Online learning is a great option for anyone. Whether you are a single mom working full-time, a stay-at-home mom, or an older adult trying to get back into school, you can get your education even if you can’t attend a physical university.
If it weren’t for the option of online courses I can honestly say that I very likely would not have even finished my Bachelor’s degree yet, let alone be almost halfway done with my Master’s.
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