Page 2 - Continuing Education Degrees

It's about you!

Wednesday, January 26, 2011 by Maria Bauer

Hello again!

I realized that any time I end up talking about Granite State College, or any other Adult Education Degree Program, that I always relate it to my life. Granted, I tend to do this to get people excited/motivated through the knowledge that some random person gave herself a chance to change her life. But this one is for you, putting aside my life for comparison.

What got you to the point of reading these blogs? There is obviously something in you that wants to start, or continue with an accelerated undergraduate, or an accelerated degree program. There is something in you that has made you take those steps to search for these. Are you looking to start a program, or finish? Are you looking to improve your current job situation? Personal reasons?

It's very easy for me to say "you won't regret it!" - (and I know you won't), however it's really time that you took that next step to commit! There are so many excuses out there, many that are more than valid, but there are 5 reasons to do it to every 1 excuse. Want to test that theory? :)

I know I'm being very repetitive, but I'm curious: what is fueling your desire to be here? We all have something that inspires us to "take the plunge"; it's time for you to find your inner fire, and embrace it.

A New Semester

Tuesday, January 11, 2011 by Beth McKenna

Every time I begin a new semester, I wonder about the kinds of students that will come through the door at Granite State College. I wonder about ages, past educational experiences, work history, reasons for coming to class and I wonder if I will be able to meet all the various needs for attending Adult Education classes at Granite State College.

This semester was no different except that I was teaching at the Portsmouth NH college campus, where I have always taught at Rochester NH college campus. I entered the Portsmouth NH campus for the first time and was greeted by a work study student. She welcomed me, assuming that I was a student. She asked if I was ready to begin classes. I smiled and thought how much fun it would be to be taking one of the many continuing education classes at Granite State College. For a moment I envied the adults that come to do an Adult Education Certificate or an Adult Accelerated Degree Program. I love teaching the courses, but what fun to take one.

I felt so welcomed at Portsmouth and so excited about the new semester. So thank you for welcoming me to my "new" campus. Come and visit yourself and see all the course options Granite State has to offer.

Skating a tradition

Sunday, December 19, 2010 by Gail Gifford

We have many traditions in our family and one of them is to skate on Christmas Eve. We started it years ago and have done it ever since. We skated in TN, NH, FL and now SC. Well, as close to Christmas Eve as I could since I have moved to South Carolina. They don't seem to have the inside rinks open during Christmas Eve so as long as we do it during the holidays, we can all say "we skated." The four children are scattered all over the US these days so we try to call each other and tell each other when we are hitting the rink.

That event took place yesterday at the Pavilion in Taylor's, which is suburb of Greenville. My daughter and her fiance came as well as a fellow I have been dating and two girls from work. One friend brought her daughter along for the fun. It was the first time her daughter had skated and she took to her skates in no time and was out there enjoying herself just like the rest of us. Learning to skate? Is just like learning anything, it takes time and patience. Patience and determination is all it takes which is similar to learning in school. One has to be determined to do it, patience to keep going, and will to polish off the task at hand.

College is very much the same. Going back to school for me took lots of patience as I took adult college classes. I had wanted to go to school for years. I was busy being a mom to four kids, there was not much time for me. But, once I had made that decision, which was a hard decision to make. Once I had the determination to get my adult education degree, the rest was easy. I had a professor tell me once, "not to look at all the classes you have to take to get your adult college degree, but to take one class at a time, then move on to the next". Those words got me through college, one class at a time. Just like that little girl learning to skate, one slide at a time and before she knew it, she was doing it.

Standing with me is my oldest daughter Amber. Her and I just love to skate. My youngest daughter will get in just before Christmas and we will hit the ice after Christmas this year. It is a family thing we do and one of our traditions. School is another tradition that I am hoping they cherish along life's journey. Learning is such a part of my life and will continue to be so for as long as I live.

On being student-centered

Friday, December 3, 2010 by Todd Leach

Since arriving at Granite State College, I have met with students at our Concord, Claremont, Conway, and Rochester regional campuses and hosted an online chat for our distance learning students. The message has been consistently positive when it comes to the quality of education and services students feel they are receiving from GSC. I have also spent enough time with staff throughout the college to know that there is a very high level of student caring that exists throughout the college. The Granite State College mission of access and opportunity is one staff embrace and students appreciate.

At the same time, colleges and universities must learn to go beyond caring about students and ensure that their practices, systems, and policies are "student-centered." Which means that we anticipate student needs and align our practices, systems and policies in a way that enhances student success and minimizes student frustration.

Over the past several months we have taken steps at Granite State College to better align our practices, systems and policies with student needs and goals. For example, more than half of our students are now enrolled in online courses, so in order to better support our distance learning students we have recently added new online tutoring services. We are also introducing new self-service capabilities that allow students to better plan their programs of study. And we are focusing attention on course scheduling to ensure more rapid tracks to degree obtainment.

This student-centered focus will be core to Granite State College as we engage in a process of continuous improvement moving forward, and find new ways to serve the evolving needs of adult students throughout the state of New Hampshire and the region.

From Advisor to Instructor

Tuesday, November 30, 2010 by Jan Hodges

Have I mentioned that I am a big believer in life-long learning? To that end, I have recently embarked on a new adventure. I am currently teaching Intro to Drawing for the first time at the Conway, NH Granite State College campus. Teaching a college evening class has always been on my "bucket list" and it has been a wonderful experience so far.

Much to my surprise and delight, 15 students registered for my course. As is typical at GSC, the class is a rich and diverse mix of ages, from 18 to 50. I have been so impressed by the warm and supportive atmosphere that has developed in the class. I have always heard about the wonderful atmosphere in GSC courses, but it is exciting to experience it first hand.

When you think of continuing education degree programs, you wouldn't necessarily picture a studio art class like this one, with students of all ages sprawled around the room with drawing boards, the furious sound of quick sketching, the smell of fixative and markers in the air. Every Monday when I teach the class, I am struck by the wonderful diversity that Granite State offers, from online degrees to live college classes.

At Granite State College, adult continuing education includes those of us who are staff and faculty, not only students. We strive to develop new skills, expand our knowledge base and engage in professional development.

I'm excited by this experience because it gives me a new way to connect with my students, as well as allowing me to use a lifetime of accumulated knowledge in a new way.  Even though this course is still in progress, I can't wait to do it again!

Mixed Blessings

Tuesday, November 23, 2010 by Erin Todd

As a full-time Granite State College employee, a part-time GSC student, and a parent of two teenage daughters ... my life has been a blur these last twelve weeks. I can honestly say that I live up to my image on the billboard GSC put up in Newport, NH, in that I could be the poster child for adult and continuing education. As proof, here is a partial list of the parental responsibilities that have occupied my time & energy over the past several months:

Packing up and delivering my daughter, Jess, to college. It was one of those 98 degree days, she had a car FULL of stuff, and she's on the third floor of her dorm (no elevator). Whew!

Assuring, and reassuring, Jess that her financial aid situation WILL work out. Even if her FA package changes a dozen times before the semester is half over! It will all be ok. (and it is!)

Talking Jess through her 'first-year' anxieties ... will she make any friends, will she and her roommate get along, will she be able to keep up with the other students??? (Yes, yes & yes!)

Bringing Jess home for an extended break when she got Mono. Mm-hmm ... Mono. Washing three weeks worth of her laundry & germ-ridden bedding. Nursing her back to health. Returning her to school with a month's supply of provisions - because "the food at school is terrible!"

Cheering Jess on with all the positive encouragement I can muster (You can too write that Psych paper by tomorrow noon! Honey, 'B' is a GOOD grade, not something to lament about! I'm sorry you're tired and your head hurts ... take a nap, drink gallons of water, take an ibuprofen if you need to ... and then study for your Italian exam.)

***

Cell phones & computers have made it possible to stay in CONSTANT communication with each other. Texting, Calling, Emailing, Facebook messaging ... there's no escape! I've barely had a chance to start missing my kid. But I do. Of course I do. There are certain things that cannot be conveyed in a text message.

There's nothing like the spontaneous discussions that spring forth when Jess bounds into my bedroom at midnight to enlighten me of her latest philosophical revelation. I miss my daughter's energy, her joi de vivre, the excitement that emanates from her very pores, when she is following the thread of an idea. I miss her pensive, deep-in-thought facial expression when she's reading a book or writing a paper. I miss Jess' light-up-a-room smile.

Fortunately, my daughter will be home over (aptly enough) Thanksgiving break, and I look forward to spending some face-to-face time with her. I think this is what people mean when they say they are enjoying the rewards of the hard work of parenting. Here's wishing all my classmates and colleagues at GSC's Claremont NH College a Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you each get to take a break from the hectic pace of work and school to count your blessings - mixed though they may be.

Unemployed

Wednesday, November 17, 2010 by Mary Clouter

Ok. There. I said it. Unemployed. But this isn't about the who, what, where, why, or how of this topic. A little over three years ago, I was let go from my job, though I have to admit, I was very ready to move on to something new. I am so happy that when I left that job, I made the decision to go back to college. At 47, I received an associates degree in Paralegal Studies. I had always wanted my degree. I knew I could do more and I really wanted to prove that to myself. I'm now continuing on for my bachelor's in Behavioral Science.

Initially, I was able to pay for college out of my own pocket, but as time went on and the job market became tougher and tougher, I applied for financial aid to help me with the costs of going to school. I have student loans now, but I won't need to start paying them until after I graduate. Other students are able to qualify and receive Pell Grants and other types of grants. These grants are for education and never need to be paid back.

What I am trying to say is that being unemployed is a tough spot to be in, but it doesn't mean that I can't continue my education. With Granite State College's flexible schedules of evening, weekend, and online classes, I can look for a job during the day and accept a job when one comes up, without affecting my continuing education or possible employment. Granite State College also has a Financial Aid office that has helped me with applying for financial aid and any questions that I've had along the way.

Going back to school was the best thing I ever did and being unemployed didn't need to interfere with my ambitions. Perhaps there's an opportunity for you as well. Speaking with someone in financial aid about more information to continue your studies at Granite State College may end up being one of the best decisions you've ever made. You won't know unless you try! I'm so glad I did.

Life Happens

Thursday, November 11, 2010 by Joe Grabowski

Life just happens.

This has not been one of my best terms. I don't say that because my classes are difficult, or because I've been under the weight of heavy coursework. I say that because life threw me a curve ball at the end of summer, a sudden change of direction that I am still processing. Over the past few months, I have found my sense of focus and motivation challenged by these unexpected circumstances, and it has been all I can do to keep myself still moving forward toward my goal of earning my Bachelors Degree in Behavioral Science.

Having said that, I can say that it goes to show the beauty of adult online classes. Had I been constrained to a more traditional approach to continuing education, I might not have made it this far through this term. The ability to adapt my schooling to my ever-changing daily life has been a critical part of my success so far. As adults with busy lives, careers, families, and a thousand other demands put upon us, finding the time and the self-discipline to add school into that mix is challenging.

But it can be done.

Another thing that I can attest to is that the professors at Granite State College are committed to helping you succeed. I've yet to encounter even one teacher who has not been willing to work with me when situations have emerged that I have had to tend to. Communication is important. Don't make excuses, but be real. You'll be pleasantly surprised at the people who rally to your side.

I have four weeks left to go to this term. To date, I've been running a 3.97 GPA, but this term may bring that number down a little bit. One thing I have learned, however, is that it is not so much about how well you run each step of the race, but that you persevere to the finish line. I have four more terms to go, and though I may have stumbled a little during this leg of the race, I am still on my way forward.

True Talent, True Hope

Saturday, October 23, 2010 by Gail Gifford

While browsing the web this morning, I came upon some sad news. A man by the name of Jim Miskelly, born July 4, 1914 died on Oct. 16, 2010. This man was diagnosed with cancer in 1975 and had a dim prognosis of only living five more years. He lived and beat the prediction by 30 years. This man was a former accountant and member of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, married 75 years to his loving wife Carolyn, who had just died one year proceeding him. He had a self-taught art of calligraphy. He would use his talents down in Palm Coast, FL, where he had moved too back in 1975, and also at the local High School. He was asked on many occasions to write for the newspapers, fill in important documents for Palm Coast as well as a New Hampshire high school where his special brand of penmanship was widely known. What a wonderful talent and he shared it freely throughout his life. I am sure Mr. Miskelly learned so much through those 96 years he lived. His knowledge, whether is was through accelerated studies or for his education or career advancement, became part of his legacy.

Today is my mother's birthday, she would have been 87 today. I never forget when my mother's birthday was, it saddens me in ways but also delights me for the women she was. She was a warm loving person who would do and do for others. Not a selfish bone in her body. She never knew I got my Adult College Degree back in September 2009 but I know she would have been so proud of me. My children and my grandchildren may follow my path as it is all part of ones legacy that we pass on. Continuing education degrees or learning how to have wonderful penmanship like Mr. Miskelly did, is life. One should never stop learning, I know I won't, love it!!

Rainy Sunday Morning!!

Sunday, September 26, 2010 by Gail Gifford

It is a rainy morning here in South Carolina. Just sitting watching Sunday Morning on TV and thinking about what I will do today. I have a bit of sewing to do as Christmas is just around the corner. I also want to head out to the stores to look for some hiking boots. I do have the book that my friend wrote to dig more into later on in the day but I think most of the day will be sewing. I learned how to sew from my grandmother. She was from Scotland and was a tailor and sewed all my mothers dresses. At a young age, she sat me in front of the sewing machine and I made my first pair of shorts at the young age of seven. From then on, I was hooked. Learning to sew has been so much part of my life through the years. From making clothes for my grandsons, myself and my children. Learning, is the key word here. From all that sewing, my young son sewed for the Navy, packing and repairing parachutes was his assignment. He learned how to sew from sitting on my lap at a very young age as I made him and his brother and sisters outfits to wear. We pass things onto our children as they grow and mature. Even if we don't think they are picking things up, they are.

I went back to school for many reasons. One of those reasons was to be a good example for my children and my grandchildren. Just like my son learned how to sew from watching me, maybe he will continue his education like I did. Granite State College was a good foundation for my education and gave me the tools and smarts to carry on in today's working society. There are so many adult education services like the accelerated studies as well as online classes for adults; all are valuable recourse's to receive your adult education degree. I hope he goes to college to get his degree someday. It will only help him in his future and his development as a young adult in today society.

Life is all about learning, whether it be learning how to sew or learning that a college education is so valuable, it is all about learning. Studies show we should never let our minds get stagnate even in our senior years, so I will be learning for the rest of my life, at least that is the plan.

The Granite State College Alumni Board Association

Wednesday, September 22, 2010 by Deidre Romeo

Today I was voted into the Granite State College Alumni Board Association (“ALA”). President Todd Leach was kind enough to attend today’s board meeting and bring us all up to speed with the direction he is moving the college towards. He shared his observations, initiatives and strategies to continue the growth of our great institution. His focus is clearly to transform GSC into a “student centered” adult education school.

I was most concerned about the possibility of GSC turning into one of the many distance learning universities; offering only online courses leaving those who require the availability of evening college classes, part time classes and weekend college classes without the flexibility and convenience of an affordable bachelor degree throughout New Hampshire. My concerns were quickly addressed. Growth and innovation are certainly at the top of President Leach’s strategy, but reducing or eliminating the availability of live course schedules throughout New Hampshire is not included in his plan.

I am excited and extremely hopeful at where Dr. Leach will lead GSC in the coming months and years. I am grateful to have the opportunity to come along for the ride.

From left to right: Barbara Grant, Kathy Moulis, Dawn Corriveau, Ruth Tappin, Deidre Romeo, President Leach, Carrie Landry, Dee McClave, Steve Cotter

www.granite.edu/alumni-and-friends/alaboard.aspx

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.

Yard work!

Tuesday, August 31, 2010 by Mary Clouter

Ugh… yard work. Well, I suppose I shouldn’t complain considering I haven’t given it much effort at all this summer. Heat waves or no heat waves… the lawn and weeds just seem to appear out of nowhere and grow exponentially. Perhaps some of you can relate. This past weekend I had a few too many thoughts going on in my head and very little frustrates me more than not being able to see clear solutions. What is a woman to do? I weed-whacked. Ahhhh, weed whacking… right up there with shredding paper in a shredding machine. Something about doing those two things seems to help me relax a bit. …but I digress. Anyhow… I actually got quite a bit done around the patio and walkways. It looks pretty good really. Once I had gotten the patio done, I had such great results, that I moved on to the walkway and then to another. The progress I made and the results that I saw motivated me to continue. I’ll probably finish up the other walkway today, because of the good feelings that I have had so far.

So what does this have to do with my education and Granite State College? How long did I put off continuing my education? Too long. Of course, the reasons were many… not enough time, how much out of my day will this take, how much studying will I need to do. It’s no wonder that I took so long to pursue my degree, but once I started, taking just one step at a time, rather than living too much into the future, I saw the progress unfolding. Originally, when I was pursuing an associate’s degree, I thought “two years?! It will take forever!” No, not forever… two years is two years and and the benefits that I got out of learning from others and pursuing an area that I enjoyed made those two years just fly by. Just a few classes at a time gave me such good feelings to continue. Two years (or four years) are going to pass by no matter what. The question that I had to ask myself was whether after two years, did I want to be talking about my completed degree or did I want to still be talking about how long it would take to do it? Either way, two years was going to pass by. How was I going to choose to spend it? I’m so glad I chose to pursue my degree!

Give Me a 'G' - Give Me an 'S' - Give Me a 'C' ... What's that spell?

Saturday, August 21, 2010 by Erin Todd

A prospective student finished her accuplacer assessment and was anxious to know the results. The scores were not easily interpretable. At a quick glance, however, I noticed that the placement recommendation was for Contemporary College Math -- which is one of the required courses for a degree at Granite State College. I pointed this out to her and we both practically cheered because she was so pleased to discover that she knows more than she thought she knew!

This particular student, let's call her Miranda, works in a local elementary school. While she enjoys her role as a para-educator, she really wants to pursue Teacher Training Education. As a former high school dropout, Miranda didn't think she was equipped to go to college, but once she attained her G.E.D., she realized that she was thirsty for more. She decided to apply to GSC, the New Hampshire State College that offers Affordable College Study, and she's eager to start her Childhood Education Courses this fall.

Miranda wants to work with children that have special needs. At GSC, she will pursue a B.S. in Individualized Studies: English Language Arts -- which will enable her to meet the federal Highly Qualified Teacher requirement, and the Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Certification in General Special Education. The reason Miranda chose GSC, she told me, was because she could continue to work in her chosen field while taking Evening College Classes. I'm willing to bet that she will also find, as I have found, that taking classes with other adults of all ages provides a rich educational experience. GSC is the college in the University of New Hampshire System that specializes in Adult Higher Education.

The excitement Miranda expressed -- when she saw evidence that her abilities are indeed college-level -- is one of the reasons I love working at Granite State College. It's such a great feeling to watch someone's face light up at the realization of their possibilities! Our students are so invested in their education, because many of them already have real-world experience, and they are incredibly motivated to do well in their studies. They want the most out of their education. And we at GSC are here to cheer them on!

Makes me feel proud!

Thursday, August 19, 2010 by Bette Papa

In the summer I volunteer at the Therapeutic Riding Program at the University of New Hampshire system. It is a horseback riding program that serves children and adults with physical, developmental, and emotional challenges. It is a volunteer dependent program as it takes 3-4 handlers per student: one to lead the horse, 2 on each side of the horse, initially holding on to the student as she/he rides, and sometimes one additional spotter. (The program also depends on donations in case you are feeling generous.) As the summer progresses so do the students' abilities and some are allowed to become more and more independent riders. I get a lump in my throat and feel so proud when we are able to let go of them or the lead line comes off and they are in control. Believe me, nothing makes you feel more empowered than knowing that you have control of a 1000 lb animal with just a set of reins and a bit! It is truly a fantastic experience for me to be a part of.

What does this have to do with my role as advisor at Granite State College at the Conway NH college campus, you ask? In June I attended the graduation ceremonies for the college and recently received the conferral list from the registrar. The ceremony is a wonderful day of recognizing completion and independence. As I read the list of names again and again I felt so proud of each student who completed their degree program. I feel like I am letting go of the lead line and watching them go out on their own to pursue other opportunities since they now have completed a continuing education degree program. I know each student is proud of them self as well and feels more in control of their lives, which can be much like a 1000 lb animal at times.

Congratulations to all graduates and I wish you all the best as you continue your life's adventure.

Diversity

Monday, August 16, 2010 by Erin Todd

In my Managing Diversity weekend intensive class, there is a 38-year-old Nigerian-born U.S. citizen, a 50-year-old Korean-American, a 28-year-old veteran of the Iraq War, a 20-year-old recent high school graduate, a 32-year-old state trooper, a 44-year-old executive and a 42-year-old UNH police officer. And me. Six of us are white. There are more men than women in this class -- a fact that is statistically atypical for Granite State College. Gender aside, the age, occupational and racial/ethnic differences of the students that make up this class are typical of GSC. Such diversity is one of my favorite aspects of taking classes at this NH State College.

Our first assignment for this class was to ask ten random people what they think "Diversity" means. The people I asked gave responses using the words "understanding, respecting, accepting, appreciating, embracing, honoring and celebrating" those "different from ourselves." That is how I feel in a GSC class, because my classmates and I come from all walks of life, from all over the state, even from different parts of the world. Some of us are just out of high school, some are stay-at-home parents and some are parents who also work outside the home, some of us are mid-career or mid-life, and some are older adults. And those differences always result in students coming away from any given class with a new understanding of someone else's perspective.

One of the people I asked responded that diversity is an opportunity that helps us grow as human beings. Another declared that there is strength in diversity. Several expressed how boring the world would be if everyone was the same. I agree with all of these statements. As a student, I have witnessed and experienced the really transformative learning that takes place in a GSC classroom. Part of that learning is intellectual, part is social, part is even growth on an emotional level. One of the greatest strengths of adult and continuing education at GSC is the opportunity to glean knowledge from the broad life experiences of our classmates.

How appealing would it be to sit down to a meal of, say, unseasoned white rice and plain boiled potatoes and white bread? Bland and boring are two adjectives that come to mind. On the other hand, partaking of a meal made up of butternut squash and flame-broiled steak and green beans seasoned with fresh herbs is a more vibrant and flavorful culinary experience. It's also more interesting.

My classmates are very interesting people. They come from all age groups, income brackets, occupations and geographic areas. A lot of my classmates are taking part time classes, though some have a full time course load; some prefer evening college classes and many also take college classes online. Many are looking for a career advancement education and some are fulfilling a goal of getting their college degree through GSC's continuing education degree programs.

The students that make up my classes are hard-working folks. They're focused. They're driven. They're probably not getting enough sleep. But. They know how important it is to have a college degree in this work climate. Many employers are expecting their employees to have, or be working on, a four-year college degree. At GSC my classmates and I are getting a truly affordable bachelor degree. No matter our age, our past work experiences, our income levels or our geographic background.

How to obtain your degree with limited financial resources...

Sunday, August 15, 2010 by Deidre Romeo

As an adult college degree recipient, I can tell you firsthand how it is possible to go back to school without the financial resources to do so. I did it, and so can you. My first mistake was to think I was not eligible for financial aid because I had a good job, was able to support myself and my one daughter who was still considered a dependent on my income tax return. Do not make this same mistake. The very first step you need to take in financing your adult education degree is to submit a FAFSA application online. It is not at all intimidating as I believed it to be. Not only did I qualify for more than $1,000 in federal and state grants during my freshman year but by completing the FAFSA I qualified for deferred interest loans and numerous adult scholarships as well. Grants are a gift, they do not need to be repaid. The Subsidized Stafford loans are educational loans which do not start accumulating interest until 6 months after you graduate or stop taking classes. Currently the deferred rate of these loans is only 4.5%. I challenge you to find a loan without collateral at a comparable rate!

Now, how to find adult education scholarships…

Use the internet and search every possible avenue. Here in the State of New Hampshire I found many scholarships I qualified for and applied for every single one of them. Yes, it does take some time and effort but it is certainly worth it. GSC offers the “Osher Re-Entry Scholarship,” as well as the ALA Merit Scholarship. Next I found the Adult Student Aid Program Scholarship available through the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. Through my continued Internet searches I found available scholarships through the numerous NH chapters of the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, the “Take it to the Bank” scholarship offered by NHHEAF and many small local scholarship programs specifically offered to residents of individual counties and communities. Aside from these scholarships available to NH residents there are countless national scholarships also available to the adult college degree student. Many banks, retail stores and businesses offer student scholarship contests. Take the time and put in the effort to apply for and attain the required finances you need to obtain your degree. I did it, so can you. Every scholarship I was awarded was again offered to me for a second and third time in my subsequent years of study.

In my next post I will give you other tips and tricks on obtaining your adult college degree with limited finances. Most scholarships have deadlines so do not procrastinate and get started right away on your scholarship search. Once you have completed this you will be ready for the next phase of financing your education....

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!

Connections, Lost and Found

Monday, August 9, 2010 by Mary Gaetz

It's all about making connections. This is one thing I have learned in the two weeks I have been here at Granite State College. Making connections can be scary, because what if it gets screwed up? What if my interpretation of connected isn't the same as others' interpretation? OK, Mary--get out of anxiety mode and into action mode! If a connection is somehow lost it can inevitably be found again. How many times in my life (I don't want to count) have I lost a connection only to have it come back to me, often at a much better time and place? Re-connected is just as good as connected, and sometimes better.

I imagine a lot of our current students have the same philosophy. I would love to know the statistic of how long our students researched and pondered going back for a degree before taking the first step and contacting someone for more information. How many times did they dismiss the information and go back to life as they know it? Making the connection to return to school as an adult learner is challenging, make no mistake. There are so many things to consider: what degree program, online classes v. face-to-face classes, scheduling classes around dinner, baby sitters, car pools, finding affordable continuing education and career advancement programs. It's enough to make smoke come out of your ears, and very difficult to find a place to get connected and focus one's energy. But even if you don't make the connection right away, it's OK. You never know when the connection will hit. And sometimes the connection comes along and hits you, which is perhaps the best way to know that time is right. I have always found it beneficial to pay attention when the universe is trying to get my attention.

It can be so hard to know if you are doing the right thing at the right time for the right reasons. Be assured that the universe (not to mention family and friends) is looking out for you. If you miss the connection this time, there is always another one that will be coming your way. The question is--will you be looking for it?

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!