Online Learner Profiles: Abner

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Guide to Online Education > Online Education In-Depth > Meet Real Online Students > Abner, M.B.A.

Abner may be studying independently, but he has plenty of support. His teacher "always responds very quickly" to his questions, he says. In addition, he is part of a community of online learners through online distance learning discussion forums, such as DegreeDiscussion.com, DegreeInfo.com, or the eLearners Community.

Meet Abner

Name: Abner Age: 40 Marital Status: Married Career Interests: Management Advice to Online Students: "A good supplement for a distance learner is to join a reputable distance learning forum where he or she can feel like part of a group."

School: Aspen University

Target: M.B.A., 2009

He recommends them for any online student who misses the direct classroom participation of a traditional school. "A good supplement for a distance learner is to join a reputable distance learning forum where he or she can feel like part of a group," he asserts. "The other advantage of being in a distance learning forum is having access to fellow students, teachers and distance learning experts in general. Whenever you have a question, all you have to do is ask."

His advice to prospective online students: "If you are currently in a situation where you cannot make it to a brick-and-mortar school, check into distance learning right away."

Not surprisingly, this business student also recognizes the many financial advantages of distance learning. He points out that many of the fees charged by traditional schools, such as for health services or parking, don't exist at online universities.

Abner wisely adds, "Choose only a school that is properly accredited and recognized."

Abner estimates the entire cost of his higher education, from his A.A. through his M.B.A., will cost approximately $20,000. He has paid for it out of his own pocket, but he notes that some schools have very accommodating payment plans that help you manage the cost.

"There are schools like California Coast University, for example, where a student can make a down payment of $500, and $100 monthly payments will be deducted from his or her credit card or checking account. This payment plan is done with no interest!"

"Think about it," he continues. "Many people can easily spend $100 a month at Starbucks!"

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