Page 2 - Accelerated Adult Degree | Granite State College

Hiking Ocoee County, SC

Wednesday, September 15, 2010 by Gail Gifford

I took off on Sunday with a friend for a day of adventure on trails. Exploring and adventuring new waterfalls neither of us have ever seen before. We had our book in hand, carefully looking at the map and figuring out where and when to turn. how far to go, where to park and landmarks to watch out for, etc. Well, we found three new falls that day. All were spectacular. My friend is a horticulturist so is so up on all the plants and wildlife in these natural surroundings, I find all the knowledge so interesting and always learn so much. Books are so great. I never read much when I was younger, of course I was pretty busy raising my fairly large family, until I went to college. Books open up your minds in ways that you never thought were possible. Learning is part of every day life. Whether it be in school K-12 or in College, Granite State College, Adult Accelerated Learning Degree bound or whatever, books are an important part of my life and always will be. I love the adventures between the covers and binding, so wonderful.

Here are a couple pictures of the falls, hope you enjoy, I did. SC and NC have the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Come explore if you ever get a chance.

Check out your local library for the hiking guilds to find them. There are hiking books for just about every State in the United States. Explore the books, venture out and view the beauty of the world and your surroundings. Learn and don't ever stop. Life is good!!

The art of making a choice

Sunday, September 12, 2010 by Tom Oetinger

Art and artisans at the Santa Fe Indian Market

Michelle and I recently returned from a trip to New Mexico and the Santa Fe Indian Market, one of the oldest and largest gatherings of Native American art in the United States. Over 1100 painters, sculptors, jewelers, weavers and potters from a broad cross section of Indian nations, tribes and pueblos participated, displaying their craft and offering much of it for sale to the crowds that flocked to this annual, two-day event. Some of the work displayed with truly breathtaking, showcasing the considerable skill of the artisans. Over the last several years I’ve developed an affinity for the Two Grey Hills style of Din’e (Navajo) weavings and southwestern, hand-coiled pottery crafted by artists from many of the pueblos that dot northern New Mexico. When visiting the area I always look to pick up a piece that will then adorn my living room. But when attending an event that draws artists with a considerable range of skills it’s important to know a little bit about the work that you’re looking at. While purchasing art is usually a matter of aesthetic interest rather than an investment it is beneficial to recognize a hand-crafted piece from those that may contain commercially constructed elements. Making a purchase without doing your homework can lead to disappointment, especially when the sale involves hundreds or thousands of dollars.

With this in mind I am often surprised at the lack of research and due diligence exercised by older, non-traditional students when looking at adult college programs. For far too many the selection of an institution that claims to specialize in adult higher education is an impulse choice, guided only by the commercials seen on television, glossy advertisements and vague promises pitched by high pressure “admissions reps." If you haven’t noticed, continuing education degree programs and career advancement programs have become big business, populated by a number of for-profit institutions, some of which offer a questionable education carrying a hefty price tag. For those that are considering returning to college to complete their degree or attend college for the first time seeking education and career advancement, it is critical to be a conscientious consumer. Prospective buyers should ask questions such as: Is your college regionally accredited? Exactly how much is the tuition rate per credit and what fees do you charge? What does your accelerated adult degree program actually entail? A college education is one of the most important purchases anyone will make. It means far more than a diploma in a frame or piece of pottery on a shelf. Make sure that you become knowledgeable about the higher education system, ask questions, compare costs and don’t be rushed into making a decision. Find someone that you can trust to discuss your options with and take your time. In this case the decision is not an emotional or aesthetic one, it’s a life long investment.

My Shakespearean Summer With Dr. Imbrascio

Monday, August 23, 2010 by Leslie Bowering

My Granite State College summer is winding down but not without an in-depth look at Shakespeare and Macbeth. I truly thought--as an older student-- I wouldn't be able to grasp the old English word structure Shakespeare used in the writing of his plays.

As adult students returning to complete our Bachelor's Degrees at an adult education school, how often do we underestimate our ability or constantly question our ability to achieve success?

One thing I do know for certain: Learning about Shakespeare from a highly educated, animated instructor like Dr. Imbrascio accelerated my understanding when reading and comprehending Macbeth.

Dr. Imbrascio is not only passionate about Shakespeare and British Literature, she is extremely devoted to the success of her students. She does whatever she can to locate the Shakespearean era in "student time."

I have written my second paper due on Shakespeare's uses of blood as one of the themes in Macbeth. Dr. Imbrascio provided the tools of interpretation I needed to write such a paper. British Literature is almost finished and I am one step closer to my Language Arts Degree from Granite State College.

The Big Finish! (at least halfway anyway!)

Wednesday, August 11, 2010 by Chris Perley

So I returned to GSC with a renewed spirit. As far as distance learning universities went, Granite State College was offering everything I needed to get my degree. I started back up in the winter of 2008 with critical thinking. The blackboard tutorial walked me through everything I needed t know to make it in this new electronic blackboard jungle!

I found the level of instruction and interaction more fulfilling than before in my face to face classes. It was exciting to not only be back in school but using new tools and techniques to achieve my goals. The on-line college opportunity that GSC was providing me was really making a difference. I began to rack up the credits and get closer to my goals, feeling like I was on an accelerated undergraduate degree path. I knew I was going to seal the deal this time!

One resource that I tapped with GSC was the ability to do CLEP and DANTES test-outs. These college level aptitude tests evaluate whether you possess college level knowledge in a number of subject matter. Although I did study to prepare for each test, you can really take advantage of prior learning with this adult education service the college provides. In one summer I was able to CLEP out of three subjects, which gave me 12 credits towards my degree. This also saved me 9 months and about $3,000 bucks too! This is a perfect way for adults learners to qualify the knowledge and skill they already possess and really race towards a college degree.

Well after 18 short months from my second go-round, the impossible became the possible and I walked with the class of 2009 receiving my Associates degree in Business. This was a great feeling, well worth the wait, and a milestone that no one can take away from me. I described it as a half way victory because getting that degree let me know, I had what it took to go all the way. I was going to continue on for my Bachelors in Criminal Justice Administration. Now I knew, getting a degree wouldn't be a matter of if I could do it, but WHEN!

Next up: More classes and a trip to Validation Nation!

Second Chances: An All New GSC!

Wednesday, August 4, 2010 by Chris Perley

I had put my dreams of a college degree away and carried on with my life. I was busy, and happy in my career, but really never thought I would "close the book" on an adult education diploma. I was enjoying some success in my career and as luck would have it, I was promoted to Lieutenant of the Conway Police Department. This was a happy time for me but a crossroads as well. Now that I was an administrator, would I have the credibility dealing with budgets, Boards and Committees? I new I had to take another look at finishing my educational journey.

In December of 2007, I went down to the local Granite State College office and met the greatest people. From my academic advisor Nancee Caughey to the office staff, Cindy, Patti, Julie and Molly, they were all clearly pulling for me to get back in the game! They could tell that I was nervous about returning to classes after 15 years, especially the online classes for criminal justice. I wasn't the most computer savvy guy and I was more than a little intimidated. They explained the process of re-enrollment, accuplacer testing and the many new programs available to help me obtain an accelerated undergraduate degree.

The thing that caught my attention first was the huge variety of degree choices. I had choices like Associate in Science in Business, Criminal Justice or even General Studies. All of these choices were now available online too. No traveling to the Berlin NH College or to any Concord NH Classes for credit. I settled on continuing with a Business Degree, now at the Associate level, and realized I was actually more than half way there! My fear was replaced with excitement and a renewed sense of purpose. I thought, "This is really going to happen!"

Next: Online classes, test outs and the impossible becomes possible!

Change and education opportunities

Sunday, July 25, 2010 by John Ford

Recently I've had a few opportunities to talk with some recent high school graduates about their plans for the summer and beyond....including continuing education. I found it rather interesting listening to them talk about the pressures of attaining good grades to get into good schools to try and get good jobs (the typical parental mantra to motivate kids through the high school years - it didn't work on us when we were kids yet we try it on our kids and they will try it on theirs as well - maybe some things are genetically coded.....).

Anyway what struck me is the attitude of some of these young people. They are not "buying in" to the college right after high school tradition. As a matter of fact many of them are looking at ways to get involved in the global community for a year or two before going "back to school" to earn a degree.

Some are looking at AmericaCorp, Habitat for Humanity, and other global service opportunities. They are seeking ways to expand their experiences as a world citizen, gain a better understanding of how the world works, meet some people with similar values and aspirations and concerns, and share their passion for giving back. Some want to be able to use this time to get to know themselves better. Many are considering smaller, less well known colleges or universities. Some are pursuing their own interests distance learning universities and online classes. And yes, the truth be told, some just don't know what they want to do, but they know that the traditional path just isn't the right thing for them now.

Some are looking at the experiences that their parents have had both in academics and in the business world. Many think about deferring college to enlist in the military. Some are considering adult education certificate programs or getting into an adult education diploma program that allows them to go to school while pursuing a job or their passion. They've seen their parents working while getting their degrees (undergrad as well as post grad work). They've seen their parents go back to get a second degree or certificate and start a new career. They have learned that education is the key to their future, but it doesn't have to be down the traditional path.

For all of the caterwauling about today's generation (every generation past has complained about the one they created), there are a lot of bright kids (okay, parents, you can acknowledge that you did a great job with your kids....there, feel better?). I came away from this conversation feeling pretty good about the next generation of learners. They are taking charge of their own education. They have challenged the system, the teachers, the parent, and even the business world. They have options that we never heard about, they are courageous, they are afraid of the future, but not paralyzed by their fear. It feeds their desire to get outside of their comfort zone. They know that you can hit the reset button and recover if you make a mistake. They are not afraid of doing something they haven't done before. They create opportunities, they create their future, they create our future.

They will change the way education will be delivered in the years to come and they will complain and be overly concerned about the next generation.....and somewhere down the road, some one will have a conversation with a group of the next generation and find out that this new generation, like the ones before it, will create a world of new knowledge and opportunities for living, for working and even for learning.......

They are using online courses, accelerated undergraduate programs, and distance learning in ways that create opportunities for those in academics to create the future of colleges and universities. They are creating new careers and new technologies that are creating opportunities for colleges and universities to grow and evolve faster than ever before.

The adult learning community is listening and responding! Never before has there been so many options for today's learning community to access education. Never before has there been so many options and academic programs to purse so many unique and innovative degrees. Never before has the academic world been more ready to serve and support the adult learning community.

So, graduates (high school, tech school, community college, college and university grad, and even you post-grad learners) when you get ready to turn to the college and university community to continue and support your education and career advancement goals, we will be there, ready to give you the education you need to continue your journey as a lifelong learner......

See you in class......

Summer, a day on the lakes with a friend

Sunday, July 18, 2010 by Gail Gifford

It was a lovely Sunday morning when my friend and I started out to Lake Cunningham which is about am hour away from my house. We had to stop for our coffee, morning DD with a donut or two, before we got there as we knew we would need some energy to paddle around the whole lake. It must be six to seven miles around the lake but what fun it was. We talked about everything as we paddled. We talked about memories and good times that we had in the past, things we would like to do in the future, dreams, etc. then Granite State College came to mind. It was a memory for me as it has been nine months since I graduated with my Adult College Degree. Boy has it been that long? Time sure flies. When I was going to school it was hard to see the "light at the end of the tunnel" I was so busy. Busy with school work, busy with household work, busy with my full time job work and busy with my four young adults. I just didn't seem to get a break. Now my break is here and can hardly believe it is done. Well, done for the time being anyways. I would love to get my Masters Degree someday. Maybe the University System of New Hampshire can help with that in my future.

OK, more about my day. We started out at Lake Cunningham...then went to a lake neither of us had been to before, Lake Rabon, which is only 18 miles from my house. I was so excited to find a new lake and so close!! "Life is good" as they say. We had map-quested it before we left so we had to watch for street signs as we drove, and low and behold there was the street we were looking for. No more than a stones throw was the lake. OMG what a big lake and bit bigger than Lake Cunningham. There were fisherman fishing and kayakers kayaking..it was great. The water lilies where in full bloom, even brought a couple home to enjoy.

All and all we had a wonderful day, we may feel the aches and pains in a couple days but that will pass. Just like all those classes passed by with the Adult Accelerated Degree Program for school. Isn't it funny how one experience resembles another at times.

My daughter is coming home tomorrow and I think her and I will go to my new found paddling spot one day this week. Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and remember, "this too will pass."

Happy day for Two...

Saturday, July 17, 2010 by Gail Gifford

Thought I would share a happy moment that occurred for me a few months ago. My oldest daughter Amber, graduated from Nursing School the same month I graduated from Granite State College. When she was born, I never would have thought she and I would be getting our Higher Education Certificates / Degrees together, but we did. Hers of course was in Birmingham, Alabama where she lived and mine was here in SC as a distance learner taking online classes for college with Granite State College. She is so much like her mom: gets a goal and does not give up until she completes it.

She has recently moved to Greenville, SC and I am just thrilled to have one of my children close by. Looking back on all her struggles with school and her determination never to give up, is just inspiring for me and many of her friends. She had started school about 6 years ago in Columbia TN and got dismissed a few times from the nursing program, it is a very hard program to get through, and found herself out the door. She kept at it and finally fulfilled her dream. She is a nurse and a wonderful nurse at that. Determination to succeed is inherited gene from her mom. I was so determined to get mine, nothing would have held me back. Not even a move from one state to another. With my schooling at Granite State College, I have found that the professors work with you so well, there is always help if you ask. They don't want you to fail, they want you to succeed and learn the information and how it applies to everyday life.

Amber had no problem getting a job even in these tough times, she is now working for the Greenville Hospital System in Powdersville, SC. I am still at Ford Motor Credit enjoying my job and looking forward to other opportunities that may open, thanks to my Granite State College Adult Degree!!

Friendships formed from a distance....

Wednesday, July 14, 2010 by Gail Gifford

You wouldn't think you could form friendships from fellow students in different states but you can. I completed my associates degree on line from Granite State College as an online learner when my job took me to South Carolina. I then went on to get my BS degree in Business Management with a minor in Finance. I started noticing that some of the same people in one class the semester before where in my new classes that next semester. It was nice to see a familiar name appear on the class roster. I, right away, sent the familiar fellow students a note through blackboard e-mail and started building a relationship with them. Before I knew it, I had a friend in Portland, Oregon, another in San Antonio, Texas, not counting all my friends I had met that lived up in New Hampshire. I soon had a great friendships formed and we would help each other on occasion if need be. Even though we all were miles and miles away, we were close in many ways. There was even a way to set up a chat session on Blackboard if we wanted to study together. The tools for learning and getting a degree from a distance were all attainable though Granite State College and the Online learning classes.

Online classes for adults are great, I can not say enough about them.

Every once in awhile, I get someone at work who will ask me where I got my degree from and when I tell them it was from a New Hampshire College, they are shocked. I soon explain to them about the online adult education degrees that can be obtained through Granite State College, whether they be regular term classes or accelerated five week classes, and that they are quite doable.

...and the learning continues

Sunday, July 11, 2010 by John Ford

Well, another semester has come and gone with yet another group of adult learners moving on....some to other classes......some onto graduation and new adventures.....the rest hoping that their new knowledge and capabilities makes them move valuable to current or future employers.

Everyone one of them has a story but not many stop to think about the role that the "teacher" plays in these stories.

I firmly believe that throughout our lives we encounter friends and acquaintances; co-workers and colleagues; coaches and mentors; instructors and teachers. Some of us aspired to actually become teachers, some of us ended up being instructors. Many of us aspired to be something all-together different yet we ended up "teaching."

The difference to me is that many can be an instructor - you have a knowledge you can share with others and help them make that knowledge their own. There are fewer people who can actually "teach" and by that I mean make a lasting impression on an individual and actually help them learn how to engage knowledge; how to tease it out of text books, and peers in their classes; people they work with; and yes, faculty members.

With this passing semester I have had it brought to my attention by several of my students that I was the first faculty member they encounters several years ago when they started (or restarted) their academic adventures. They said it was appropriate that I was also the last "teacher" they encountered on their journey at Granite State College.

As I stopped to reflect on the number of people who have crossed my path as a faculty member, or even as a "corporate trainer" I started to wonder how many of these people I had actually been able to "reach." Not just had them in my class, but left them with something tangible that will stay with them for their lifetime. It isn't a degree, it isn't a class, it isn't a textbook. It's a desire to not "unlearn" the lessons they have internalized and now see their own worlds as something different than it was last semester, last year or will be next semester or next year.

Adult education services and adult accelerated degree programs are sometimes viewed as simply about coming to evening or weekend intensive classes and getting through them while balancing life, family, work, and the occasional quiet moment for the harried student. We forget simply that we (faculty and students alike) share a brief moment of discovery and either we mark that discovery or we eventually lose it.

I've had students come to me and thank me for helping them gain a new perspective about their careers. They've given me a hard time about making their work environment a terrible place because that can't go back to accepting things as they are, things they know can and should be changed, and in some cases, things THEY can and should change to make their work environment more effective. Some of my students have thanked me for helping me get them re-engaged in their work or careers; some have thanked me for helping them make the choice to pursue something different, something closer to their heart and soul. Some have cursed me for long writing assignments that are akin to holding up a mirror and being asked to tell the truth about what you see. Sometimes knowledge, or the responsibility that comes along with it, can be overwhelming. It is our job, as faculty to work with you, the adult learner, to challenge your thinking...and it is your job as students, to challenge our thinking so together, when you graduate, you and the faculty you leave behind, can continue to make your make in the classroom as others follow in your footsteps.

I'd like to close this piece with two things:

First, a thank-you to the students that have honored me with their presence in my classrooms over the past 6+ years. You have taught me lessons that I will never forget and I will share them with others as long as there are new faces hungry for ideas walking through the doors at the college.

Second, for the students who have yet to walk into my classroom. You have big shoes to fill, ones left behind by other students who one walked into their first class. Bring every part of you to every class in which you enroll and I can guarantee that you will have the time of your life....learning lessons that will never leave you behind!

Open Air and Hot Air Balloons

Wednesday, July 7, 2010 by Leslie Bowering

Quechee Gorge
School's out for Summer! Except that it isn't really out for me! Instead, I have taken a little reprieve by attending the Vermont Balloon Festival with my daughter while I wait for classes to begin again.

This summer my adult college classes will include a very special hybrid course in British Literature which I am very excited to attend. Dr. Imbracsio has graciously agreed to special scheduling for students requiring this particular class in order to graduate in December.

I will also take my Short Fiction course with Professor Benham as an Independent Learning Contract. But the most challenging course I am taking this summer will be Creative Writing with Professor Agran.

It may seem like I am achieving an accelerated adult degree but I am not, although such a degree program is available at Granite State College. I am merely taking three courses this summer to accelerate my own personal progress toward my graduation goal.

Often throughout my Language Arts studies success has seemed like a worthy opponent but I have stoically stayed the course.

Taking breaks is important. Getting out into the wide open spaces clears a well-exercised brain. I enjoyed my day in Vermont even though our Hot Air Balloon ride was cancelled due to an imminent storm coming in from Schenectady, New York.

And now I am ready to continue.

Spring 2010 Term/Alternative Course Delivery Options

Sunday, April 25, 2010 by Wayne Churchill

This spring term is a significant one for me for a couple reasons. I am on track to earn my Associates Degree in June, and I am continuing on with my plan of taking two classes per term (the significance of this can not be overlooked). An explanation will follow...

When I chose to leave Keene State in June 1997, I told myself I would return to school, that I was just leaving for a break. Of course I attempted to keep that pledge true. I took a class with the College Of Lifelong Learning in 2002, but did not continue. Again, I enrolled in the adult education program and took one more class in 2005 but the reality of having a new baby son again had me reconsidering my idea. In the summer of 2008, I returned to Granite State College, this time for good. What was different? I was in the middle of interviewing for a newly created position at my company, and two things were quite clear to me: 1-I was being seriously considered for this position of high visibility and responsibility and 2-my lack of degree completion was a major concern. At this point I decided there was no more room for excuses, and it was time to set my sights and accomplish this goal I had set for myself so long ago. In hindsight, I am thankful for this commitment I made, because my current position is being moved to a new region of the world at the end of the calendar year, and without a degree, I would most likely be moved into a position with a lower pay grade and fewer opportunities to advance up the ranks.

Why is the fact that I am taking two classes this term again a significant milestone? When I found out a year ago in the summer of 2009 that my current position would be leaving our US based office, my leader made it very clear that it would be a tough sell to get me a position with the same level of responsibility and pay without a degree. He encouraged me to double up on classes to ensure the attainment of my Associate's Degree by the end of 2010. Around this same time, a significant change in my life forced me to pick up a part time job. From late August to the end of the winter term in March, I cursed the decision. I had zero time to do things I really WANTED to do, but I recognized the important message I was sending to my leader, as well as the great friends I have made at my part time job. Alas, I seriously considered not taking two classes per term anymore, until I realized the myriad course delivery options available at Granite State College. This term I am taking (along with my normal 12 week class) a 5 week intensive class (delivered through online classes for college). This class will begin later this term so I look forward to blogging about my experience. Now I can finish school sooner and still have time in my life for friends and activities that make me happy and fulfilled.

It is important to begin school at the right time in your life, but consider that there is never a "perfect" time. It is a real commitment, and beginning sooner rather than later can only benefit you. Also, for people concerned about the intrusion in their life that this comittment will engender, realize that you can take 5 week classes or even weekend intensive classes that deliver accelerated studies, yet allow you to minimize the time requirement.

I am the Meat in a Pride Sandwich!

Thursday, February 11, 2010 by Deidre Romeo

Do you remember what it felt like when you were a child and made your parents proud? I remember when I was in the first grade and won the spelling bee which meant I won a five foot tall stuffed Snoopy animal our teacher had brought in as motivation for all of us. My classmate, the runner up, cried hysterically because she had dreamed of winning this prize. I was so moved by her emotion that I gave her the stuffed Snoopy. By the time I had arrived home on the school bus my teacher had phoned my parents and informed them of the events of the day. That is the last time I remember my parents telling me how proud they were of me. I felt great on that day, not because my hard work and studying had paid off but because my parents were truly proud of their daughter.

I became a single parent at the age of 25. I raised and supported two beautiful daughters on my own. I bought a home and gave of myself to community organizations for more than a dozen years. It was not until I began my Adult Accelerated Degree Program at Granite State College that my parents again expressed pride in me. Let me tell you, it feels even better at the age of 40 to make your parents proud than it did at the age of 7.

Do you know what is even more gratifying than hearing your aging parents tell you they are proud of you? It is hearing your child tell you how proud they are of you. I received a flower delivery at work; I had not received flowers since the birth of my children some 18 years ago. I opened the card and read,” I am so proud of you, Love Brittany.” I immediately called my daughter and asked what she was proud of. I thought I may have won the lottery and did not realize it! She simply stated that she was proud of me for pursuing my adult college degree, working fulltime and still supporting her, her sister, the family dog and our home. This is the child that saw me as the Devil incarnate for some 5 + years! How wonderful is that?

Last year I was inducted into the Honor Society. My youngest daughter came to the ceremony out of obligation. She made it clear that she was put out by the fact that she had to get up as early as 10:00am and wear her “Sunday Best.” While at the event she sulked and complained that they did not serve any food that she liked.

Danielle was 18 years old and in her “dark” period. She dyed her hair black wore black clothes and refused to smile or say anything positive during her day. As each of the 30 of us adult college degree students being honored were called upon for pinning we were asked to say a few words. I had prepared a brief 30 second speech so I was comfortable doing so. As I walked back to my seat after speaking my daughter leaned in and said “you just owned this room!” If you need a translation from the “dark side” my daughter had just told me that she was proud of me. What an accomplishment that was.

I am middle aged and have the generation above me and below me both proud of me at the same time. Is there a better place to be in life?

Classmates: Friends or Foes?

Thursday, February 11, 2010 by Deidre Romeo

I was 40 years old when I finally began my Adult Education Courses in pursuit of my Education and Career Advancement by enrolling at Granite State College. I chose GSC for two reasons; it was convenient as they offered Evening College Classes, Online Adult Degrees and Weekend College Classes, as well as the fact that their student demographics at the time showed their enrollment to include a large number of middle aged students. I could not picture myself sitting in a classroom surrounded by 19 and 20 year olds. Much to my surprise and benefit I have found myself sitting in very diverse classrooms. I have learned so much from the 19 and 20 years olds sitting next to me, not to mention what I have learned from the 40, 50 and 60 year olds. My classmates have included recent high school graduates, grandparents, firefighters, police officers, IT professionals, Bank VP’s, Town Managers, career Military personnel, para educators, business owners, nurses and the list goes on. The professional and personal experiences of my classmates have tremendously added to my education.

Aside from the professional and educational insights and advances my classmates have offered me, I have found lifelong friends in the classrooms and offices of Granite State College. I have discovered Professors who have mentored me, staff and faculty who have befriended me and students who have become important to my life, have shared family moments with me and have encouraged and supported me in all of my life pursuits.

There is one classmate in particular who has influenced my life in so many positive ways. Her name is Barbara and she is an amazing woman.

She raised three beautiful daughters, one of whom lives close to me and has become my friend as well. This wonderful woman has attended school events to support my daughter, has welcomed me to her family celebrations, invited me to the VIP section of the Christmas Boston Pops Concert and reads, proofs and edits any school, professional or personal writings I may be struggling with. In my three years as an adult student I have yet to find a classmate I would consider a foe but I have found many who I now call my friend.

Are you looking to change your life?
Are you looking to enhance your life?
Are you looking to start your life?
If so, Granite State College is the place to start!

Accelerated Studies in Snowblower Operations

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by MB Lufkin

It was a cold and blustery snow storm, the kind that makes you want to cuddle up in your fleece pajamas with cocoa and a good book--or with your nine-year-old son to watch Miracle for the hundredth time. Instead I was in the garage, cell-phone propped on my ear trying to follow my husband's instructions to start the snowblower. "Crank the choke, throttle the rabbit, prime the pump then tork the lever." Huh??

Ever feel this way? The person on the other end of the phone knows exactly what they're talking about and launches into a language that you can't even begin to understand. You're frustrated, cold, wet and feeling a little bit dumb that you can't even get past the first command, never mind actually make this machine come to life.

I know that this is how going back to college can feel for adults. I've had students in my classes tell me that this is their first time back in a classroom since high school. It's scary. And overwhelming and there are alot of acronyms. The good news is, they picked Granite State College. Because we're an adult college program, we try to avoid the acronyms and help our students navigate the maze of higher education clearly and with a road map. We have specific resources for adult students including advising, academic support and a virtual library. We also walk our students through the maze of adult financial aid. We'll help you distinquish between a FAFSA and a MPN (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) and (Master Promissory Note).

So if you're feeling overwhelmed with choices, and information, give us a call. We'd love to help you start fulfilling your dream of achieving your degree. (And we'll help you start the snowblower if you need that too!)

My mii says "ouch"

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by MB Lufkin

Like millions of Americans, my new-years resolutions included getting in shape. I think my expectations are pretty realistic. I know I'm not going to be Jillian Michaels within the next 6 months, but perhaps I can at least get rid of this double chin. To get started I decided to jump on the Wii Fit Advanced train. My son eagerly helped me set up my mii (because you know 9-year olds do this stuff about a thousand times faster than us adults!) I have to admit my mii was pretty stunning. Great haircut, nice glasses and the color eyes I've dreamed of having. I was in heaven. Until the board calculated my weight and bmi...at which point it started groaning what sounded like "ouch" each time I stepped on the board. I guess this is supposed to be a motivator...move from "ouch" to "yippee"? "amen!"? or even "phew!" (I'll let you know when I get there!). Unfortunately for me it had exactly the opposite effect. Who wants to be greated with "ouch" when they're jumping on board to get exactly the opposite reaction. How about a "good for you!" or "at least you're trying!"

This experience made me think about our students. Since we offer primarily adult college courses, we appeal to adults looking for affordable continuing education in an environment that is supportive and friendly. Some of our students are interested in accelerating their studies and completing their degree quickly. I believe that the experience we offer is closer to the "good for you!" than the "ouch." Based on our recent student satisfaction survey, our students agree. They give us high marks for academic support, faculty access and online course availability. If you're considering a college with online classes, I hope you'll choose the one without the "ouch"--Granite State College

The Story of Mary: From Traditional to Non-Traditional Student

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Jan Hodges

Mary was discouraged when she first came to see me. She had attended a large university for three semesters and had not been terribly successful. She had gone to college straight from high school, following the "traditional" undergraduate college path. Her peers had encouraged her to go to a big school. "It will be exciting!" She was told. "So many things to do on campus!"

Her first semester she could not understand why she was experiencing so much academic difficulty. She had been a great student in high school, achieving good grades with relative ease. She struggled through her first semester, enjoying the social life and many great activities the large university had to offer. She failed half of her classes.

After 3 semesters, she had only successfully completed half of her classes. She finally realized that is was the size of the classes that did not work for her. She felt small and lost in the large lecture hall courses with 200 other people and dis-empowered to speak up.

Discouraged, Mary dropped out of school and came home to the North Country, feeling like an academic failure.

Then a friend told her about Granite State College. "They have adult programs online!" she was told, "They have a Conway NH College!" Mary saw a local billboard featuring a smiling student and decided to call. She was greeted by friendly office staff. By the time she made it into my office she was beginning to feel more hopeful.

As we talked I told her about Granite State College's small, personal classes. She was excited that the small class size would allow her to get to know her instructor and fellow students. I went on to describe GSC's evening college courses, weekend college courses and online adult degrees. When she found out that two courses is full time at GSC, her smile beamed. "I was overwhelmed in four courses!" She exclaimed. "Juggling work and a four course load was impossible."

I then assured her that I have an open door policy. I want my students to come see me any time they are experiencing any kind of obstacle or if they just want to talk. "I never had anyone help me at my old school." She said.

She left a very happy, soon to be new Granite State College student.

Your learning is yours to apply

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by John Ford

Consider how many people return to college each semester. They are using Adult Education Services, accelerated studies, evening college classes, adult online classes, enrolling in continuing education degree programs and career training education programs. Some take classes from their home or office, some still walk into the classroom with other students and an instructor.

Now, think about all the reasons they are doing this. Some are there to finish something they started before work, family, life took them down other paths. Some are there to start their educational journey now that some other responsibilities have changed or gone away and they have the time. Some are there for the enjoyment of contuning to be a life-long learner. The vast majority however, are there to gain new knowledge in their efforts to become more valuable in their current positions, prepare for a promotion or in some cases, a complete career change. Either way the expectation is that whatever you learn will be something that you will be, and should be, able to apply in your daily set of personal and professional circumstances.

One of the key differences in educational experiences between students who enter college right out of high school and the adult learner seeking education and career advancement hinges on two elements:

Experience - the student coming directly out of high school really is limited
                          in the level of experiences they bring to the classroom. Most of
                          their learning has to be more directed and often includes the use
                          of case studies. Case studies allow all students to share a common
                          set of experiences, usually with a known outcome, where the
                          proverbial "what ifs" can be explored through a guided lecture or
                          or assignment. In the case of the adult learner, often coming to the
                          the class with years of work/life experience, they ARE their own
                          case studies. They bring a unique set of circumstances, good and
                          bad, successful and not so successful, to the classroom. They can
                          and should use these experiences as a tool in their educational
journey.
Focus - while the typical college student just entering college from high school
                   may have desires and aspirations that they firmly believe their pursuit of
                   an education will help them achieve, the adult learner, returning for
                   their education and career advancement desires tend to be very focused
                   and will willingly share their experiences with one another as part of their
                   overall classroom experiences. They are very focused on what they are
                   learning and how they can apply that knowledge immediately, not at
                   some time in the future. There is a sense of immediacy.

Keep in mind that every student, regardless of age or reason for being in class, has their own set of expectations. Some take courses that are required simply because they are required, others zoom in on what are the lessons that will help them achieve very specific career goals. In either case, the student and teach form a relationship that should result in the student knowing exactly how the lessons learned in that particular class can be used in their current situation.

When you participate in adult continuing education programs, for whatever reasons, remember that you have an obligation to apply your learning each and every day. The best way to keep your knowledge current and viable is to use it.

Remember to flex your knowledge muscles each and every day.....they are yours to apply and hone so the next set of learnings have a strong foundation to build upon.