So, here I am writing my first blog post. It's a little intimidating because I've never blogged before. But there's a first time for everything and I'm excited about this new endeavor. Of course the challenge will be finding the time, between working and classes and family responsibilities.
It helps that I am surrounded by other adult college students, many of whom can relate to my balancing act, because they are also working full-time while taking part time classes. In fact, many of my classmates are only able to afford their adult college classes because at GSC taking just one class a term means that they are eligible to apply for financial aid. Another huge incentive is that the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition at GSC is only $15 per credit! Offering the lowest tuition of all four institutions in the University of New Hampshire System, GSC is a NH state college where my classmates and I can earn an affordable bachelor degree, associate degree or even teacher certification.
I suppose I sound like I'm going for a hard-sell. But that's only because I have such a positive impression of Granite State College. One of the best aspects of my job at GSC is being a point-of-contact for prospective and new students because I want so much to help people see their potential become reality. If a student calls our Claremont NH College, needing to know how to post a comment to the discussion board in Blackboard for their online class, I can walk them through it over the phone, because I've been in their shoes.
When a potential student calls or walks into our center for the first time, they are often worried about how they'll handle taking adult college courses on top of their work and family responsibilities, and I can relate. But it really is doable! For me, taking online classes is one way I have been able to manage to keep all the balls in the air, so to speak. Sure, my first online class was a little scary in the beginning, but my classmates were incredibly helpful - explaining where to find resources and how to submit assignments. It was a great feeling to learn some new technology along with the actual course material. That's just one of the perks of taking online classes for college!
Because I really enjoy the occasional human interaction, I also take face-to-face evening college classes, as well as weekend intensive classes. I find that I can fit these into my hectic schedule quite nicely. Currently, I'm taking Managing Diversity as a weekend intensive, and The Emerging U.S. Health Care System online. It's a splendid combination of formats and learning!
Well, I better get back to the books, because I want to make sure I get my assignment in before the deadline tomorrow.
Life happens. And as a young adult recently out of high school, life happened to me fast-- way faster than I expected.
I was an idealistic 18-year-old with grand schemes of living the traditional 4-year college experience, relishing the excitement of living in a dorm with my peers, inspired by the prospect of exploring fascinating subjects accessible only through higher education, and looking forward to a shiny new degree with a shiny new career that was sure to follow.
Well, "best laid plans," right? Life happened. I found myself thrown into the nose-to-the-grindstone working world, taking whatever job or two that I could get so that I could pay the rent on my tiny apartment and keep the electricity on. But I didn't completely tuck away those college schemes. The idea was to keep on keeping on, and "someday" I'd be able to bring the schemes out into the light, unroll them and lovingly lay them back across the drawing board, dust them off, and build the life I had envisioned. Someday.
Out of necessity, "someday" kept being put off. That plateau that would serve as a resting place in life where I could stop, breathe, think for a while, gather my resources, and put my schemes into action just never seemed to come. Months whirled by, then they blurred together and spun into years. Suddenly, I was 24 years old. No degree, no prospects, no direction, no ideas how to get unstuck. I was surviving, not living--and certainly not anywhere close to the life that I'd seen for myself years before.
I was working in retail at the time. One day, a woman who was temporarily working in the store for a few days, idly initiated a conversation with me. For some reason, the topic of college came up and I only happened to mention how much I wished I could go. This woman-- a random, complete stranger to me-- said I should consider the College for Lifelong Learning (the former name of Granite State College), and explained how it's a school that offers affordable college study and continuing education degree programs. My life has never been the same.
Read my new blog post to find out what happened next!
I was an idealistic 18-year-old with grand schemes of living the traditional 4-year college experience, relishing the excitement of living in a dorm with my peers, inspired by the prospect of exploring fascinating subjects accessible only through higher education, and looking forward to a shiny new degree with a shiny new career that was sure to follow.
Well, "best laid plans," right? Life happened. I found myself thrown into the nose-to-the-grindstone working world, taking whatever job or two that I could get so that I could pay the rent on my tiny apartment and keep the electricity on. But I didn't completely tuck away those college schemes. The idea was to keep on keeping on, and "someday" I'd be able to bring the schemes out into the light, unroll them and lovingly lay them back across the drawing board, dust them off, and build the life I had envisioned. Someday.
Out of necessity, "someday" kept being put off. That plateau that would serve as a resting place in life where I could stop, breathe, think for a while, gather my resources, and put my schemes into action just never seemed to come. Months whirled by, then they blurred together and spun into years. Suddenly, I was 24 years old. No degree, no prospects, no direction, no ideas how to get unstuck. I was surviving, not living--and certainly not anywhere close to the life that I'd seen for myself years before.
I was working in retail at the time. One day, a woman who was temporarily working in the store for a few days, idly initiated a conversation with me. For some reason, the topic of college came up and I only happened to mention how much I wished I could go. This woman-- a random, complete stranger to me-- said I should consider the College for Lifelong Learning (the former name of Granite State College), and explained how it's a school that offers affordable college study and continuing education degree programs. My life has never been the same.
Read my new blog post to find out what happened next!
My friend Donna deserves to have fireworks for the rest of her life for she has truly earned them! In June 2010 she graduate from Granite State College with a GPA of 3.93! As important as her grades are, they only give us a sliver of a glimpse into who this woman really is and where she is headed in life.
Donna fits the demographic of the typical Granite State College Adult Learner to a tee. She has lived a life of many years previous to setting and meeting Adult College Courses; she got married, became a mother, then a step-mother, while working at many different jobs along the way. For instance, in 1973 Donna was the first woman hired at the Hampton Toll Booth in New Hampshire. She was eventually "retired" from this position at the age of 25 because she was pregnant and "everybody would know what she had done to be in that condition."
As Donna continued to have children she continued to change jobs for different reasons. In 1993 she began a degree program because the company she worked for planned to downsize. But as her children began to attend college Donna's plan was set aside money in an effort to support the ambitions of her children and to also pay their tuition.
Miracles do happen! In 2009 after Donna's company closed its doors she was free to complete her Bachelor of Science degree at Granite State College in Rochester through the Trade Act. With the help of her dedicated and efficient Advisor, Linda Buttrick, Donna was quickly enrolled into classes in July of 2009.
In order to graduate, Donna's ambitious goal included the completion of nine courses. Through the Trade Act she was required to take two courses per semester which meant she had to take three courses for the last semester.
An example of Donna's Adult College Program palette includes fun courses like Software Tools and Interpersonal Communications, which she took as Online Classes for Adults. In the Fall she took The Principles of Assessments, Introduction to Research in Behavioral Science and Sociology which was a bit more challenging for her. But lets revisit her GPA of 3.93 for a moment, which speaks to the astute characteristics of dedication and determination most adult learners already posses when they arrive at Granite State College.
Self-determined to succeed because "failure was not an option," Donna met with Nicole McMillan in the writing lab to set up a study schedule and to make appointments to proof-read Donna's prolific works. Once she was settled in her daily routine of good consistent study habits, Donna went on to complete every single course required of her to meet the standard qualifications for the degree she ardently pursued.
I had the wonderful honor and enjoyment of meeting Donna while we were enrolled in Professor Sparrow's course, The Principles of Assesments, Introduction to Research in Behavioral Science and Sociology. During that time I learned about Donna's love of fiction writing which added yet another dimension to an amazing multidimensional person I will not soon forget.
Bring your creativity! Bring your diversity! Bring an insatiable appetite for the learning process and you too will fit right in. When Donna arrived she made the learning process her own, until ultimately she reached her own seemingly unobtainable heights!
Good Luck Donna!
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......
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......
I was 49 went I went back to school. I was excited, but a little apprehensive as well. I wanted to take as many writing courses as possible, and I did. Of course I also chose history, astronomy and art classes. In fact, I took a little bit of everything, except math.
I have to admit that I was a bit math phobic. I didn't have any good memories of math class after about 6th grade. Give me addition, subtraction and multiplication and I'm good to go -- even fractions, no worries --but algebra and geometry, not so good, and considering how long ago I had taken those classes I was terrified about passing the math class I would need to take to get my degree. Needless to say, I put it off as long as I could.
I took the Accuplacer and sailed through the reading comprehension part, but I didn't score high enough on the math portion to go directly into the regular college math class. I wasn't too enthused about taking the remedial math as I called it, but it turned out to be the best thing I ever did. I barely made it through my high school math classes and even repeated algebra to try to improve my grade, without success. However, my Granite State College experience was very different.
The Math teacher I had at Granite State College was wonderful; she didn't treat us like we were dense if we didn't get it right away and she explained everything in an a clear, understandable manner. Even though many of my classmates were fresh out of high school and I was a late learner, I discovered that I had one skill that would make up for my years away from school -- I still knew my times tables! Who knew that all of that memorization would stick with me for so long and apparently it applies to all the other forms of math. I not only passed the basic math course, I also went on to the Intro to College Math class and passed it with flying colors.
My fear of math is not unusual in a student returning to school after years away from formal learning. One thing you should know is that even though you may have been out of school, chances are you have still been learning -- at your job, raising your kids, traveling, whatever your life has been will translate into life skills that will be useful in your return to school. There is even a class you can take to help you determine what life skills you have that may translate into credits. Any fear you have about returning to college life is exactly the same fear we have all had; you are not alone.
One of the amazing things about Granite State College is that they really want you to succeed and they provide you with all of the tools you need to do just that. They have supportive teachers and staff, tutors if you need extra help and even students who will help classmates when needed, if you are serious about putting in the work the support system won't let you down. The staff and advisors at the college will help through the process from financial aid to selecting the classes you need to reminding you when it's time to prepare for graduation.
One of the best things about Granite State College is the variety of offerings. I have enjoyed everything from creative writing to Astronomy to Sustainable Gardening, which was my last science class, and more fun than learning in the classroom from a textbook and I learned so much that I can actually use every year when I have a successful garden.
I once spent an amazing four days on the Isles of Shoals taking a creative writing course with a great group of writers. We all just clicked and ended up sharing stories with each other that we would never have shared under any other circumstances-that group, at that time in that place opened up all of the creative flow and it poured out. Even the reluctant writers produced the most amazing work, much to their surprise. But then, how could anyone not be moved to write while sitting in a porch rocker on the deck of an old hotel on an island frozen in time? If you ever get the chance to take a class or participate in a retreat on the Isle of Shoals, Star Island -- go for it. You will never forget it, believe me.
Another non-traditional aspect of the Granite State College experience is the availability of online and Hybrid (half online, half face to face) courses which many people choose because it works around their job and family obligations. Just imagine a class that is available at 3 in the am or 11 pm and anytime in between! I personally prefer face to face or hybrid classes because I like the real time interaction and the instant response aspect, but that may just be my age-I'm more used to the traditional classroom. While I see the benefits of online, I hope the traditional classroom never goes away.
The most important thing I have learned since going back to school is that the learning process never ends. Whether a student is 18 or 80 Granite State has much to offer, they really are the perfect place for the lifelong student.
I have to admit that I was a bit math phobic. I didn't have any good memories of math class after about 6th grade. Give me addition, subtraction and multiplication and I'm good to go -- even fractions, no worries --but algebra and geometry, not so good, and considering how long ago I had taken those classes I was terrified about passing the math class I would need to take to get my degree. Needless to say, I put it off as long as I could.
I took the Accuplacer and sailed through the reading comprehension part, but I didn't score high enough on the math portion to go directly into the regular college math class. I wasn't too enthused about taking the remedial math as I called it, but it turned out to be the best thing I ever did. I barely made it through my high school math classes and even repeated algebra to try to improve my grade, without success. However, my Granite State College experience was very different.
The Math teacher I had at Granite State College was wonderful; she didn't treat us like we were dense if we didn't get it right away and she explained everything in an a clear, understandable manner. Even though many of my classmates were fresh out of high school and I was a late learner, I discovered that I had one skill that would make up for my years away from school -- I still knew my times tables! Who knew that all of that memorization would stick with me for so long and apparently it applies to all the other forms of math. I not only passed the basic math course, I also went on to the Intro to College Math class and passed it with flying colors.
My fear of math is not unusual in a student returning to school after years away from formal learning. One thing you should know is that even though you may have been out of school, chances are you have still been learning -- at your job, raising your kids, traveling, whatever your life has been will translate into life skills that will be useful in your return to school. There is even a class you can take to help you determine what life skills you have that may translate into credits. Any fear you have about returning to college life is exactly the same fear we have all had; you are not alone.
One of the amazing things about Granite State College is that they really want you to succeed and they provide you with all of the tools you need to do just that. They have supportive teachers and staff, tutors if you need extra help and even students who will help classmates when needed, if you are serious about putting in the work the support system won't let you down. The staff and advisors at the college will help through the process from financial aid to selecting the classes you need to reminding you when it's time to prepare for graduation.
One of the best things about Granite State College is the variety of offerings. I have enjoyed everything from creative writing to Astronomy to Sustainable Gardening, which was my last science class, and more fun than learning in the classroom from a textbook and I learned so much that I can actually use every year when I have a successful garden.
I once spent an amazing four days on the Isles of Shoals taking a creative writing course with a great group of writers. We all just clicked and ended up sharing stories with each other that we would never have shared under any other circumstances-that group, at that time in that place opened up all of the creative flow and it poured out. Even the reluctant writers produced the most amazing work, much to their surprise. But then, how could anyone not be moved to write while sitting in a porch rocker on the deck of an old hotel on an island frozen in time? If you ever get the chance to take a class or participate in a retreat on the Isle of Shoals, Star Island -- go for it. You will never forget it, believe me.
Another non-traditional aspect of the Granite State College experience is the availability of online and Hybrid (half online, half face to face) courses which many people choose because it works around their job and family obligations. Just imagine a class that is available at 3 in the am or 11 pm and anytime in between! I personally prefer face to face or hybrid classes because I like the real time interaction and the instant response aspect, but that may just be my age-I'm more used to the traditional classroom. While I see the benefits of online, I hope the traditional classroom never goes away.
The most important thing I have learned since going back to school is that the learning process never ends. Whether a student is 18 or 80 Granite State has much to offer, they really are the perfect place for the lifelong student.
Hi!
I just finished my first week of my first classes at GSC and they are both online. I had a couple of fears about doing online classes. They sounded like a great opportunity to take a class and work at my own pace during the week from my kitchen. It's still great idea, but my attention span, or lack thereof, is what was causing me a bit of concern. But so far I have found that the online instructors really keep us engaged with readings, postings, and discussion boards. It has been interesting to post my discussion topic and to see others replies and also their discussion topics. Most fun was reading everyone's intro and to see how similar we are in our goals and many of our backgrounds. So even though we're separated by distance, the online class (via Blackboard) has helped to bridge that distance with interesting online conversation and assignments.
Talk to you all soon!
mary
I just finished my first week of my first classes at GSC and they are both online. I had a couple of fears about doing online classes. They sounded like a great opportunity to take a class and work at my own pace during the week from my kitchen. It's still great idea, but my attention span, or lack thereof, is what was causing me a bit of concern. But so far I have found that the online instructors really keep us engaged with readings, postings, and discussion boards. It has been interesting to post my discussion topic and to see others replies and also their discussion topics. Most fun was reading everyone's intro and to see how similar we are in our goals and many of our backgrounds. So even though we're separated by distance, the online class (via Blackboard) has helped to bridge that distance with interesting online conversation and assignments.
Talk to you all soon!
mary
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.
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."
Ah, social psychology. Have you heard of it? Maybe not. But you might have heard of social networking. And you might have heard of Isaiah Mustafa.
The Old Spice commercial in which he appears advertising Old Spice's body wash, which originally appeared in the Super Bowl, has gone viral. As of June 29th it had been viewed by 7,166,140 people - a great example of social networking. And the new twist is that the "Old Spice guy" responds to tweets (and nope, I'm not being paid by Old Spice, nor by Typhoo Tea [see an earlier blog], but I love seeing everyday examples of things we learn in social psychology classes, like the ones we have at Granite State College.)
The Old Spice commercial takes advantage of some very clever marketing ideas - and marketing ideas are best understood when you study social psychology. Procter and Gamble figured out that women were most likely to be the ones who would buy Old Spice Body Wash for their men. So the ad begins with a jacked bodybuilder, who coos, "Hello, Ladies...."
But this example doesn't end with how clever the marketers are. It's also an example of social networking. A social network depends on people who have some relationship with other people. So if, for example, you like something you see on youtube.com, like the Old Spice ad, and forward it, you will be most likely to forward it to people whom you like, to whom you're related. Or maybe you're one of those (annoying?) people who forwards it to everyone in your email address book. (If you are, I hope you know to hide those addresses in the "bcc" box, which hides the addresses from others so you don't have to look at pages of email addresses, which can be annoying, but can be a boon to those who are looking for email addresses so they can send spam ads for things like, well, you know...) But even if you are, the people in your email address book are still people with whom you have some kind of relationships.
The also offers the possibility of joining "us" on Facebook and Twitter. So once you click on those links, you start to feel that you are joining others like you. Social connection! Social psychology at its most basic!
Okay, I digress....What I'm getting at is how, as my students often comment, as soon as you learn about what's behind marketing and ads, you look at them with a whole new understanding. It's so cool.
Okay, here's the Old Spice ad, but I hope you'll also check out the exciting things we have to offer you at Granite State College. We'll help you understand how these ads work, what persuasion and marketing are all about, and help you be an educated person.
The Old Spice commercial in which he appears advertising Old Spice's body wash, which originally appeared in the Super Bowl, has gone viral. As of June 29th it had been viewed by 7,166,140 people - a great example of social networking. And the new twist is that the "Old Spice guy" responds to tweets (and nope, I'm not being paid by Old Spice, nor by Typhoo Tea [see an earlier blog], but I love seeing everyday examples of things we learn in social psychology classes, like the ones we have at Granite State College.)
The Old Spice commercial takes advantage of some very clever marketing ideas - and marketing ideas are best understood when you study social psychology. Procter and Gamble figured out that women were most likely to be the ones who would buy Old Spice Body Wash for their men. So the ad begins with a jacked bodybuilder, who coos, "Hello, Ladies...."
But this example doesn't end with how clever the marketers are. It's also an example of social networking. A social network depends on people who have some relationship with other people. So if, for example, you like something you see on youtube.com, like the Old Spice ad, and forward it, you will be most likely to forward it to people whom you like, to whom you're related. Or maybe you're one of those (annoying?) people who forwards it to everyone in your email address book. (If you are, I hope you know to hide those addresses in the "bcc" box, which hides the addresses from others so you don't have to look at pages of email addresses, which can be annoying, but can be a boon to those who are looking for email addresses so they can send spam ads for things like, well, you know...) But even if you are, the people in your email address book are still people with whom you have some kind of relationships.
The also offers the possibility of joining "us" on Facebook and Twitter. So once you click on those links, you start to feel that you are joining others like you. Social connection! Social psychology at its most basic!
Okay, I digress....What I'm getting at is how, as my students often comment, as soon as you learn about what's behind marketing and ads, you look at them with a whole new understanding. It's so cool.
Okay, here's the Old Spice ad, but I hope you'll also check out the exciting things we have to offer you at Granite State College. We'll help you understand how these ads work, what persuasion and marketing are all about, and help you be an educated person.
How exciting for Granite State College - Rick Agran, one of our Creative Writing Faculty, will have a poem featured on the The Writer's Almanac.
It's time to order my textbooks. When I register for my classes, I then go into the Granite State College sponsored retail textbook website and look at which textbook(s) I will need. I then take the ISBN number and see if my library can get a copy of it. (This has only happened 2 times in all 12 classes I have taken, but to me it is worth it and you'll see why in a moment.) If the library has the title I need then I can "rent" it from them. Even though my local library has very generous borrowing terms, it seems I incur a late charge of $0.10/day. So let's say I borrow the book for the first 3 weeks at no charge. Then I renew it, again at no charge. Usually my classes are 8 - 12 weeks, so I still need to "borrow" the book until the end of my class so I will end up incurring a late fee for the duration of the class. The most I will pay is $6.00 for the semester. See what I mean by "renting?"
If my library does not or cannot get the copy I need then I go back to the web and begin my hunt....I mean my search. First, I Google the ISBN. Then I look to the large distributors, like Amazon, or Barnes and Noble. One, if not both, are bound to have the title. This is an intense process and I am prone to being very vocal about it; "Oh My God!," "They want how much for this book?!" "They must be crazy!" "(Insert name of large online distributor here,) has it for half that cost," "Can you believe these guys?", "This is such a racket!" So on and so on. My family has been very good to me during my textbook hunting process. They say supportive things like, "I know," or "You are so good at that, I'm sure you will find something," and "No I don't know what they are thinking," all whilst I furiously type upon my keyboard. Eventually I level my sights on an item and go in for the.....sale.
Now I have been around long enough to know that for every bargain there is usually a trade-off. In this case it is the gamble of the shipping. The big named online bargain centers sometimes cannot guarantee shipment of your textbooks, as they are not responsible for the 3rd party vendors who use their site. That has nipped me more than once. But like I said it is a gamble, you might win big, (like getting a used, good conditioned book with a 60% savings). Or you could suffer the consequences of the gamble and not have a textbook when classes start, (3 weeks was longest I had to suffer).
The name of the game is keeping money in my wallet and out of somebody else's. This semester I am trying out a new method of receiving my textbooks; electronically delivered on to my computer. It's all the rage what with the host of electronic reading devices that are on the market touting the convenience of the portable gadgets. To me it was the convenience of saving 30% off retail and no shipping that gave me pause. I got my textbooks the same day. Now I have no excuse for not being up to date with class readings -- like I said before -- trade-offs.
If my library does not or cannot get the copy I need then I go back to the web and begin my hunt....I mean my search. First, I Google the ISBN. Then I look to the large distributors, like Amazon, or Barnes and Noble. One, if not both, are bound to have the title. This is an intense process and I am prone to being very vocal about it; "Oh My God!," "They want how much for this book?!" "They must be crazy!" "(Insert name of large online distributor here,) has it for half that cost," "Can you believe these guys?", "This is such a racket!" So on and so on. My family has been very good to me during my textbook hunting process. They say supportive things like, "I know," or "You are so good at that, I'm sure you will find something," and "No I don't know what they are thinking," all whilst I furiously type upon my keyboard. Eventually I level my sights on an item and go in for the.....sale.
Now I have been around long enough to know that for every bargain there is usually a trade-off. In this case it is the gamble of the shipping. The big named online bargain centers sometimes cannot guarantee shipment of your textbooks, as they are not responsible for the 3rd party vendors who use their site. That has nipped me more than once. But like I said it is a gamble, you might win big, (like getting a used, good conditioned book with a 60% savings). Or you could suffer the consequences of the gamble and not have a textbook when classes start, (3 weeks was longest I had to suffer).
The name of the game is keeping money in my wallet and out of somebody else's. This semester I am trying out a new method of receiving my textbooks; electronically delivered on to my computer. It's all the rage what with the host of electronic reading devices that are on the market touting the convenience of the portable gadgets. To me it was the convenience of saving 30% off retail and no shipping that gave me pause. I got my textbooks the same day. Now I have no excuse for not being up to date with class readings -- like I said before -- trade-offs.
As I mentioned in my previous posts I do work-study at Granite State College. I am usually in the Portsmouth, NH college or at the Rochester Regional Center. Now, I already have a full-time job, so doing work-study is sort of my second job -- but not really -- it helps support my college habit. It is a means by which I can go to school and still make some money. Regardless of the type duties a work-study candidate may encounter the big pay-off is not the money. I hope that doesn’t hurt when we say it out loud.
Other institutions within the University of New Hampshire System provide work-study opportunities to their students. A student may find themselves in the dining hall, washing dishes for the 2000 students who come in. One of my personal favorites is cleaning the horse barn; a twice daily ritual reserved for the lucky few work-study candidates who desire a truly hands on approach to learning.
When I go online and look-up work-study, I often see lists of benefits that college-aged students reap when they participate in the program; earn money while going to college, develop time management skills, build work ethic, etc. But the funny thing is, those are not the benefits I need to reap as an adult learner. The benefits I need to have must be geared towards my goals, incorporate my experiences and enhance my learning. So as a budding student of teacher training education, I NEED to have a place where I can foster examples of new learning for young people; I NEED to practice the skills of implementing the theory I have encountered during my course work. So I was really curious about how Granite State College work-study could benefit me.
In 2007, when I began looking into utilizing work-study funds as a means of decreasing my reliance on student loans I found that most if not all the jobs listed were in Concord and the surrounding areas. Being from the Seacoast this was a disappointing development. But as I read more I found out I could actually do meaningful work, that would also enhance my studies; utilizing work-study funds I could work in my community where I felt there was a need. This was new information for me. Did you know that work-study funds could be used in the community and not only at the college? A win-win solution.
With the help of Cortney Henry at the Financial Aid office, and the support of my employer, we created an after-school mentoring program (a desperately needed component when working with at-risk youths). Together the students and I created a concrete form for a garden bench and then went on to pour it. After the bench was finished, we then went on and created a garden area for our bench to be displayed in. It was meaningful work which fit in nicely with my degree program and it is a project which continues to grow today. It has created a lasting tribute to the students who participated in the program and they now have a tangible connection in their community. When we make purposeful connections, between people and places in our community, we then share common values which enrich us all.
Now that’s a benefit you can’t put in a pamphlet -- and after all isn’t that what learning should be about?
Other institutions within the University of New Hampshire System provide work-study opportunities to their students. A student may find themselves in the dining hall, washing dishes for the 2000 students who come in. One of my personal favorites is cleaning the horse barn; a twice daily ritual reserved for the lucky few work-study candidates who desire a truly hands on approach to learning.
When I go online and look-up work-study, I often see lists of benefits that college-aged students reap when they participate in the program; earn money while going to college, develop time management skills, build work ethic, etc. But the funny thing is, those are not the benefits I need to reap as an adult learner. The benefits I need to have must be geared towards my goals, incorporate my experiences and enhance my learning. So as a budding student of teacher training education, I NEED to have a place where I can foster examples of new learning for young people; I NEED to practice the skills of implementing the theory I have encountered during my course work. So I was really curious about how Granite State College work-study could benefit me.
In 2007, when I began looking into utilizing work-study funds as a means of decreasing my reliance on student loans I found that most if not all the jobs listed were in Concord and the surrounding areas. Being from the Seacoast this was a disappointing development. But as I read more I found out I could actually do meaningful work, that would also enhance my studies; utilizing work-study funds I could work in my community where I felt there was a need. This was new information for me. Did you know that work-study funds could be used in the community and not only at the college? A win-win solution.
With the help of Cortney Henry at the Financial Aid office, and the support of my employer, we created an after-school mentoring program (a desperately needed component when working with at-risk youths). Together the students and I created a concrete form for a garden bench and then went on to pour it. After the bench was finished, we then went on and created a garden area for our bench to be displayed in. It was meaningful work which fit in nicely with my degree program and it is a project which continues to grow today. It has created a lasting tribute to the students who participated in the program and they now have a tangible connection in their community. When we make purposeful connections, between people and places in our community, we then share common values which enrich us all.
Now that’s a benefit you can’t put in a pamphlet -- and after all isn’t that what learning should be about?
I was a police officer in Dover, NH when I decided to go back to school for my degree, and I chose GSC and never regretted that decision. The instructors were all working professionals who brought the real world into the classroom, which is the ultimate goal for any educational experience. I got my Bachelor's Degree in Management in 1989 and immediately applied to the University of New Hampshire's graduate school, completing my Master's Degree in Public Administration in 1993. The tools and learning experiences I had at GSC held me in good stead in my master's program, and I look back now on my time at GSC as a dynamic transitional period in my professional and personal life. I later transferred to the Portsmouth Police Department and had a wonderful career there, recently retiring as deputy chief of police. I have recommended GSC to individuals seeking to further their education and I shall continue to do so. It was a great experience for me.
Name: Len DiSesa
Graduated: 1989
Location: Seacoast
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Management
Name: Len DiSesa
Graduated: 1989
Location: Seacoast
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Management
This is my first year back to school so I was extremely nervous about how difficult my classes were going to be for me and how I was going to pull off being a mom, an employee AND a student. But to my utter surprise and pleasure the faculty has been "mucho" patient and helpful with me, the classes have been engaging and the teachers wonderful!!! What a wonderful start Granite State has given me on the way to my greatest desire, a career! I couldn't do it without all of the great people at the Claremont branch, I just love all of you. Thanks again Granite State College for a truly rewarding first experience.
Name: Deborah Hulser
Anticipated Graduation: 2012
Location: Claremont
Degree: Associates in Behavioral Science
Name: Deborah Hulser
Anticipated Graduation: 2012
Location: Claremont
Degree: Associates in Behavioral Science
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!
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!
I have lived a whole summer in the first 6 weeks of this one! Typically, when the summer season stretches before me, I make lists of destinations and day trips. Whether it be Whale Watching trips out of Rye Harbor, poking through the shops of Perkins Cove and walking the Marginal Way, or planning a "lake day" right here at Lake Winnipesaukee, much of the list typically remains just that --a list---by the end of the summer.
This year, I am trying to live more deliberately. Because let's face it---while drifting along "life's river"--the current can start to move pretty quickly 'til I find I am further downstream than I thought. Ahem. Dramatic metaphor aside, I'm attempting that old Nike philosophy, "Just Do It." So, instead of making lists and dreaming about great summertime excursions, I have taken more of a 24-hour approach to summer fun. That is, pack the car tonight, for tomorrow we play!
We have been to Ogunquit Beach several times (my new favorite), White Lake State Park, New Durham Town Beach--(ok, that one still counts 'cuz I had to pack the car) and even a trip to Hershey, PA. (For that one, we played one day at the amusement park,
and then one day in Amish country. What a contrast!)
Instead of lists of paper on my counter top, I have great memories of time spent with my husband, kids, friends, and my parents! Best part is, summer is only half over!
Just like with my adult college education. It remained a "to do" until that day I finally called Granite State College and inquired about part time classes. The good feeling I got from taking that off my "list" and "just doing it", was priceless. What will you do with the rest of your summer?
A veil of peacefulness drapes over me whenever I go to the sea at sunset. After long hours of reading "The Awakening" for my Short Fiction class I understand the importance of taking time to process... and what better place to do that than while walking along the sandy shoreline enjoying the balmy seas at dusk?
My Adult College Education has motivated me to accept every challenge put forth even when there have been times when I thought I might not achieve the success I sought. Through countless hours of reading, studying, researching, and writing I have tried very hard to focus on the fruits of my labor.
One of the Summer courses I am taking toward my degree in Language Arts through Granite State College is a hybrid course. A hybrid course is a combination of face to face instruction and integrative interaction consisting of students and instructor communicating intellectually through a virtual classroom called Blackboard.
I will be sitting in front of a computer screen for most of the summer but one thing I know for sure, I will be taking my laptop to the sea at dusk.
My Adult College Education has motivated me to accept every challenge put forth even when there have been times when I thought I might not achieve the success I sought. Through countless hours of reading, studying, researching, and writing I have tried very hard to focus on the fruits of my labor.
One of the Summer courses I am taking toward my degree in Language Arts through Granite State College is a hybrid course. A hybrid course is a combination of face to face instruction and integrative interaction consisting of students and instructor communicating intellectually through a virtual classroom called Blackboard.
I will be sitting in front of a computer screen for most of the summer but one thing I know for sure, I will be taking my laptop to the sea at dusk.
Quechee GorgeSchool'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.
I want to post a thank you to a great class in the teacher training education program at Granite State College in Rochester. It was a great semester filled with lively conversation, great questions and some fun activities.
We started the semester in the Child Development class learning a little about our own learning and thinking styles. We watched some great videos on prenatal and infant development. We learned all about the way kids learn as they grow. But what really made the semester was the conversation. Members of the class shared their experiences with children of all ages. We learned a lot about growth and development from the stories classmates shared with us. And finally, we ended the semester with our own version of Jeopardy. The class members created great questions and a fun competition followed.
It was a great semester and I hope to see many of you again in future classes. Thanks for making it a great semester.
We started the semester in the Child Development class learning a little about our own learning and thinking styles. We watched some great videos on prenatal and infant development. We learned all about the way kids learn as they grow. But what really made the semester was the conversation. Members of the class shared their experiences with children of all ages. We learned a lot about growth and development from the stories classmates shared with us. And finally, we ended the semester with our own version of Jeopardy. The class members created great questions and a fun competition followed.
It was a great semester and I hope to see many of you again in future classes. Thanks for making it a great semester.
First and foremost, my mother is truly proud of me for the first time since I made the honor roll in High School! 
I have raised two amazing daughters on my own since they were 4 and 1 ½ years old, I bought a home and have been a community volunteer and leader for some fifteen plus years; yet it took my mother all these years until she saw the words, “Summa Cum Laude,” printed next to my name for her to at least express her pride in me. I have to admit, it does feel good.
Today the President of my company pulled me into his office and said he wanted to work with me on my career aspirations and asked me to think about what it was I wanted to do at his company. He said he would sit down with me again in a couple of weeks to discuss my options because he recognized my commitment and obvious ambition in the attainment of my degree.
I just graduated a couple of weeks ago and already it has greatly affected my life and how others view my value. Are you presently undervalued by those in your life? If so, think about taking the same path as I, attainment of your adult college degree at Granite State College.
I have raised two amazing daughters on my own since they were 4 and 1 ½ years old, I bought a home and have been a community volunteer and leader for some fifteen plus years; yet it took my mother all these years until she saw the words, “Summa Cum Laude,” printed next to my name for her to at least express her pride in me. I have to admit, it does feel good.Today the President of my company pulled me into his office and said he wanted to work with me on my career aspirations and asked me to think about what it was I wanted to do at his company. He said he would sit down with me again in a couple of weeks to discuss my options because he recognized my commitment and obvious ambition in the attainment of my degree.
I just graduated a couple of weeks ago and already it has greatly affected my life and how others view my value. Are you presently undervalued by those in your life? If so, think about taking the same path as I, attainment of your adult college degree at Granite State College.
Have you ever waited for something? You imagine what it will be like. You weigh the pros and cons of what it might be. You may even form preconceived notions of what this new thing will mean for you.
Well, that is what happened with the new Granite State College campus at Rochester, NH. The new campus opened two weeks ago. We were told from the beginning of the spring semester that Granite State College would be moving to a new location. It was a bit further from the seacoast, but it was a building all of its own. It was the former Cabletron building, if you knew what that was, which I didn't.
So in my head I imagined a college campus in an older building. I imagined the extra travel time. I imagined getting lost the first time I went there.
But I was so amazed! My preconceived images were so wrong. The new campus is only about 8 minutes further from the seacoast than the old campus. (So commuting is still easy for those of you from the Portsmouth area.) The building is large, very new and set out on the top of a hill like a college campus should be. The classrooms are large and have all the latest technology available. There is even a large entry area with computers available for use!
The new Rochester, NH campus is a beautiful site. It gives the feel of a college and it is a place worth visiting!
So, if you are looking for a great college experience, stop by the new Rochester campus of Granite State College.
Well, that is what happened with the new Granite State College campus at Rochester, NH. The new campus opened two weeks ago. We were told from the beginning of the spring semester that Granite State College would be moving to a new location. It was a bit further from the seacoast, but it was a building all of its own. It was the former Cabletron building, if you knew what that was, which I didn't.
So in my head I imagined a college campus in an older building. I imagined the extra travel time. I imagined getting lost the first time I went there.
But I was so amazed! My preconceived images were so wrong. The new campus is only about 8 minutes further from the seacoast than the old campus. (So commuting is still easy for those of you from the Portsmouth area.) The building is large, very new and set out on the top of a hill like a college campus should be. The classrooms are large and have all the latest technology available. There is even a large entry area with computers available for use!
The new Rochester, NH campus is a beautiful site. It gives the feel of a college and it is a place worth visiting!
So, if you are looking for a great college experience, stop by the new Rochester campus of Granite State College.
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