What do I love about GSC? I get the chance to head back to class, at age 49, to pursue a teaching degree. I get to keep my position in an elementary school and work in classes as I can, to FINALLY do what I am meant to do. I thank GSC for this. If it weren't for the PBTC program I wouldn't have been able to pursue my dream!
- Paula
My GSC Story
Thursday, January 17, 2013 by
Granite State College 40th Anniversary
I started taking courses through Granite State College because of their partnership with the Hudson School District. I have never thought that I would go back to school. I just recently made the decision to go for my Teaching Certification. I am in the process of working with the School of Education and they have been such a great help.
I love the fact the GSC has an online program and that they have many opportunities for their students. Each time that I have contacted Granite State College, they have quickly responded to my questions/concerns. I really enjoy working on my degree through GSC.
- Line
My GSC Story
Wednesday, January 16, 2013 by
Granite State College 40th Anniversary
I am only in my 3rd term at Granite State College, but already feel very at home. From the first day that I stepped foot into the offices in Manchester, I was welcomed with friendly faces and had all my questions answered. I was not even planning on enrolling in GSC when I went to speak with someone in Manchester, and when I left that day, I was all enrolled in a B.A. program. Everyone I have been in contact with from financial aid to scheduling classes, has made everything stress-free for me. I love that I can get my entire degree online if I want to also!
The #1 reason why I love GSC, is their affiliation with the school district where I work (Hudson, NH), and my district will pay for some of my classes! I thought I would never see a light at the end of the tunnel, but I plan to graduate from GSC with my bachelor's degree in the Spring of 2014! From there, I hope to get a job teaching Math, and once I am settled, I will continue my education at GSC and someday receive my Master's Degree.
- Rachel
Courses of interest
Tuesday, April 24, 2012 by
Danielle Dodd
In order to get one step closer to my undergraduate psychology degree I recently took the Intro to Ethics course online, and man, what an excellent course! I originally took it because I am a very passionate and opinionated person and thought I would do well in the course. Little did I know I was going to walk away from the class with an even broader span of understanding of humanity. The things I learned throughout the course were not only interesting, but relatable to real life events. To see politics in a different light and to see why other people think the way they do. The instructor was super nice and very effective at teaching. He really took a different approach, and that is what I love most about Granite State College. They do not hire instructors who “preach” to you. That say read chapters so and so and take a test. They really get you to think, to associate your life with the materials. You become more of an educated person intellect and character becomes more three dimensional. I think the most eye opening resource you can look at is the Horace Miner’s “Body Ritual among the Nacirema Tribe” here- http://www.ohio.edu/people/thompsoc/Body.html. While you read the story, keep in the forethought of your mind all of the judgment’s you may be passing on this tribe’s people and their rituals. If you find this interesting, then you should really check out the intro to ethics course! And this course is not just limited to fullfilling requirements for just the Bachelor of Science in Psychology, but also in many other degree programs here as well, both online and in class! Take a look at the most recent course offerings and I promise you, you will not be disappointed!!
Earning your Teaching Certification is a Reality
Monday, March 26, 2012 by
Beth Hoyt-Flewelling
Today I am sitting at an educational conference for paraeducators. I am writing as I await their next break and my next opportunity to help someone learn how teaching certification can be within reach. With Granite State College's new undergraduate teaching certifications, as well as the Post Baccalaureate Teacher Certifications we can now make teaching certification a reality for more individuals. Granite State College can also help Paraeducators achieve Paraeducator II Certification with the State of NH with a five class sequence or an Associate's Degree.
I am excited to be able to tell prospective students that we can now offer teaching certification with a Bachelor of Arts in Individualized Studies in Social Studies, English Language Arts and Math Studies or a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. We are offering the same teaching certifications as at the Post Baccalaureate level:
General Special Education (K-12)
General Special Ed (K-12)/ Elementary Education (K-8)
Early Childhood Special Ed. (0-age 8)/Early Childhood (N-grade 3)
ESOL (K-12)
Mathematics (5-8)
Secondary Mathematics (7-12)
By specializing in the critcal shortage areas for teachers in NH, Granite State College is able to help individuals be more "employable" upon earning teaching certification. Para educators are so excited to hear that they do not have to stop working to take classes and earn certification. Both undergrad and PBTC programs are job embedded and field based, meaning that we want you working in a school or approved program during your time with us. Classes are available online, as field based or occasionally as face to face, so you can live anywhere in NH (and surrounding states) and complete your teaching certification.
Time to go and talk with some future teachers and tell them... how easy it is to get that teaching certification... that allows you to take that teaching position... increases your ability to positively impact the future of our children and schools... and furthers your career!
Being an inspiration to our children...
Wednesday, July 27, 2011 by
Deidre Romeo
I have always believed it important to not only talk the talk, but to walk the walk, when it came to teaching my children. I have tried to accomplish this throughout the past 23 years of motherhood. It is not always what we did do but often, what we did not do, that our children pay attention to.
My daughter was very proud of me when I graduated with my adult college degree last year. It got her thinking of going back to school herself but although she talked about it she never took any action towards this stated goal. The very same week my promotion at work was announced, my 23-year-old-daughter enrolled as a full-time student at a local New Hampshire State College.
As soon as my daughter realized the opportunity offered to me as a direct result of my academic accomplishments she realized there was no reason she had to wait until her mid-life for the same opportunities.
No matter what your age, an adult college degree will open doors, present opportunities and offer new and exciting challenges. I will not be surprised to find myself working for my daughter in 5-10 years!
To my daughter Brittany; you have always been bright, beautiful, ambitious and highly capable. Now that you have decided to begin your adult college program, the world is yours for the taking.
You continue to make me proud of the young woman you are today and will undoubtedly become. I am grateful you have made different life decisions than I, you will thrive in your academic pursuits and enjoy the benefits of your education for a lifetime.
You go girl!
My daughter was very proud of me when I graduated with my adult college degree last year. It got her thinking of going back to school herself but although she talked about it she never took any action towards this stated goal. The very same week my promotion at work was announced, my 23-year-old-daughter enrolled as a full-time student at a local New Hampshire State College.
As soon as my daughter realized the opportunity offered to me as a direct result of my academic accomplishments she realized there was no reason she had to wait until her mid-life for the same opportunities.
No matter what your age, an adult college degree will open doors, present opportunities and offer new and exciting challenges. I will not be surprised to find myself working for my daughter in 5-10 years!
To my daughter Brittany; you have always been bright, beautiful, ambitious and highly capable. Now that you have decided to begin your adult college program, the world is yours for the taking.
You continue to make me proud of the young woman you are today and will undoubtedly become. I am grateful you have made different life decisions than I, you will thrive in your academic pursuits and enjoy the benefits of your education for a lifetime.
You go girl!
Those who paved theway
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 by
Marta Smith
I just realized the other day - I am not the first generation of non-traditional learners.
I know it seems like this midlife, adult education program is brand new, but actually it isn't. I vaguely remember my mother dusting off her books and heading back to school when my youngest sister was about 6. I always thought she did it to get away from my sister, but I may be projecting! Anyway, my mother got her teaching degree beforer she married my father and after they were married they moved around quite a bit. After awhile I was born, then sister number 1 and sister number 2, and my mother became a stay-at-home mom. She may have worked a few part-time jobs over the years, but mostly she stayed home. When my youngest sister went to school, my mother went back to school, taking college evening classes and others, to renew her teaching certificate.
As I was reading the obituary of an older friend who recently passed away, I realized that she had also taken time off to raise her kids and then gone back to school to finish her degree, and then she went on to teach at the local high school. She raised successful children who went on to prestigious colleges and then highly successful careers and then she went back to teach other children how to be successful in life.
So, my point is they are the ones who paved the way for us. It wasn't as easy for them to go back to school and to pursue adult education and training as it is for us. There was less help with tuition and very few places to go and less flexible class schedules. We are so much luckier than those who went before.
I know it seems like this midlife, adult education program is brand new, but actually it isn't. I vaguely remember my mother dusting off her books and heading back to school when my youngest sister was about 6. I always thought she did it to get away from my sister, but I may be projecting! Anyway, my mother got her teaching degree beforer she married my father and after they were married they moved around quite a bit. After awhile I was born, then sister number 1 and sister number 2, and my mother became a stay-at-home mom. She may have worked a few part-time jobs over the years, but mostly she stayed home. When my youngest sister went to school, my mother went back to school, taking college evening classes and others, to renew her teaching certificate.
As I was reading the obituary of an older friend who recently passed away, I realized that she had also taken time off to raise her kids and then gone back to school to finish her degree, and then she went on to teach at the local high school. She raised successful children who went on to prestigious colleges and then highly successful careers and then she went back to teach other children how to be successful in life.
So, my point is they are the ones who paved the way for us. It wasn't as easy for them to go back to school and to pursue adult education and training as it is for us. There was less help with tuition and very few places to go and less flexible class schedules. We are so much luckier than those who went before.
Health Care Management
Tuesday, March 1, 2011 by
John Cook
A recent note from the US Department of Labor finds that employment for medical and health care managers is expected to rise faster than average. Looking around the landscape of New Hampshire and other states, the outlook for jobs is very promising in this area. But what about preparation for those individuals seeking to work in the field of health care management? Good news now that Granite State College, the institution within the University System of New Hampshire that focuses on adult students, has launched our B.S. degree in Health Care Management.
I'm particularly excited for students enrolling in the Health Care Management degree because of the fantastic faculty that will be teaching in the program. For example, Catherine DiPentima who holds both an M.B.A. and a Nursing degree, offers practical and applied knowledge that is so well suited for adult students.
I'm particularly excited for students enrolling in the Health Care Management degree because of the fantastic faculty that will be teaching in the program. For example, Catherine DiPentima who holds both an M.B.A. and a Nursing degree, offers practical and applied knowledge that is so well suited for adult students.
Part Time Classes
Monday, January 31, 2011 by
Beth McKenna
Are you a busy person? Most people would say yes! Are you an ambitious person? Again, most people would say yes! Are you an adult who thinks college is something kids do after high school because they don't want to go to work, or they don't know what they want? To that, I hope you answered no.
What if I were to tell you that many of the people who come to classes at Granite State College are a lot like you? They are adults interested in adult education courses. They may have found a program they are interested in but most are not going to school full time. They are taking part time classes or even online adult education classes to further their education. That is pretty ambitious because they are working during the day and coming to class at night.
But classes only meet one night a week. So, just think, one night a week you could come over after work to a campus in Portsmouth, or Rochester, or Concord, or Manchester, or Berlin or Littleton and take a class instead of crashing in front of TV.
Right now I am teaching a child development course. Two people are taking the course for their Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood, one is taking it for a degree in Behavioral Science, another for an associates degree, and one person is taking it because he thought it would be interesting to know about the theories of child development.
There are so many reasons to come to Granite State College. I hope you will find a reason and I will see you in a class next semester.
What if I were to tell you that many of the people who come to classes at Granite State College are a lot like you? They are adults interested in adult education courses. They may have found a program they are interested in but most are not going to school full time. They are taking part time classes or even online adult education classes to further their education. That is pretty ambitious because they are working during the day and coming to class at night.
But classes only meet one night a week. So, just think, one night a week you could come over after work to a campus in Portsmouth, or Rochester, or Concord, or Manchester, or Berlin or Littleton and take a class instead of crashing in front of TV.
Right now I am teaching a child development course. Two people are taking the course for their Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood, one is taking it for a degree in Behavioral Science, another for an associates degree, and one person is taking it because he thought it would be interesting to know about the theories of child development.
There are so many reasons to come to Granite State College. I hope you will find a reason and I will see you in a class next semester.
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.
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.
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!
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!
The Book List
Tuesday, September 28, 2010 by
Leslie Bowering
Are you interested in exploring the area of teaching literacy? You can begin your learning process by attending Granite State College in Rochester, New Hampshire where you can create your own self-design program so that you can achieve your Language Arts Degree.
Once you complete your general education requirements you will then begin the arduous process of learning to read and write as a college student, a very different experience from the long ago and far away high school years.
Only after the full completion of Multi-cultural Perspectives in Literature, Expository Writing, American Literature, Short Fiction, Creative Writing, and British Literature will you be invited to read much, much more!
My book list for my Capstone is a challenging and interesting one. The titles include Letters to a Young Teacher by Jonathan Kozol, Is There a Text in This Class? By Stanley Fish, The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller, and Breakthroughs in Literacy by Susan E. Israel.
It is such a good thing that I do love to read! Do you? Then why not begin today? Children today need to be gently reminded that books and reading are still important. I can hardly wait to write my paper because I am excited about all I am going to learn from the process!
Career Plans
Saturday, September 4, 2010 by
Beth McKenna
Do you have career plans? Do your plans include college education courses? Have you thought about obtaining an Associate's Degree or a Bachelor's Degree or maybe an Adult Education Certificate or an Adult Education Diploma?
Granite State College may be just what you are looking for. Did you see the September 2010 issue of "U.S. News and World Report?" It compared the best colleges in the country. One of the criteria was class size. Another was availability of the faculty. Affordability and the availability of grants and loans was another criteria. Granite State College has a low student to faculty ratio. Many courses only have 10 to 15 students in them. This allows you to really get to know your professors. The professors have a chance to get to know you as well. And, what you may not know, most Granite State professors are working in the field that they teach in. This means that what you are learning is current and what you need for your career. Granite State also has a wide range of available student financial aid.
As you consider your career plans, whether you are right out of high school, or an adult interested in adult education programs, consider Granite State College.
Granite State College may be just what you are looking for. Did you see the September 2010 issue of "U.S. News and World Report?" It compared the best colleges in the country. One of the criteria was class size. Another was availability of the faculty. Affordability and the availability of grants and loans was another criteria. Granite State College has a low student to faculty ratio. Many courses only have 10 to 15 students in them. This allows you to really get to know your professors. The professors have a chance to get to know you as well. And, what you may not know, most Granite State professors are working in the field that they teach in. This means that what you are learning is current and what you need for your career. Granite State also has a wide range of available student financial aid.
As you consider your career plans, whether you are right out of high school, or an adult interested in adult education programs, consider Granite State College.
Calling All Early Childhood Professionals
Friday, August 20, 2010 by
John Cook
I can't say enough about the classes for Early Childhood Education that we offer at Granite State College. Not only is this Bachelors Degree available in the form of evening college classes or online classes focused on adults, we have such wonderful Faculty as well. I'm thinking for example of Catherine Yeaton, who is currently teaching EDU 553, Creative Arts in Early Childhood Education, which we are offering this Summer at our Rochester NH College. Catherine runs the well-know Building Blocks School - located in southern New Hampshire.
But here is the key detail that might surprise working childcare professionals looking for career advancement programs: Granite State College has a program that will jump start your Early Childhood Degree. If you are employed at least 20 hours a week in a NH licensed or license-exempt child care center or family child care program, GSC will pay for half the costs of your first class, or even the full cost, depending on the class. Click this link for details.
Let me be specific about Fall Term, because registration is open right now. Here are two classes that you can sign up for using the ECE Tuition Assistance Program:
PSY 508, Child Development, 4 credits
(GSC Rochester, Tuesday nights, starting Sept. 14th)
EDU 601, Observation & Assessment in Early Childhood Education, 4 credits
(GSC Rochester, Monday nights, starting Sept. 13th)
You do NOT need to be enrolled in a degree program to take these courses - but if you ARE interested in career advancement education, give us a call (603.332.8335) or register online.
But here is the key detail that might surprise working childcare professionals looking for career advancement programs: Granite State College has a program that will jump start your Early Childhood Degree. If you are employed at least 20 hours a week in a NH licensed or license-exempt child care center or family child care program, GSC will pay for half the costs of your first class, or even the full cost, depending on the class. Click this link for details.
Let me be specific about Fall Term, because registration is open right now. Here are two classes that you can sign up for using the ECE Tuition Assistance Program:
PSY 508, Child Development, 4 credits
(GSC Rochester, Tuesday nights, starting Sept. 14th)
EDU 601, Observation & Assessment in Early Childhood Education, 4 credits
(GSC Rochester, Monday nights, starting Sept. 13th)
You do NOT need to be enrolled in a degree program to take these courses - but if you ARE interested in career advancement education, give us a call (603.332.8335) or register online.
...and the learning continues
Sunday, July 11, 2010 by
John Ford
Well, another semester has come and gone with yet another group of adult learners moving on....some to other classes......some onto graduation and new adventures.....the rest hoping that their new knowledge and capabilities makes them move valuable to current or future employers.
Everyone one of them has a story but not many stop to think about the role that the "teacher" plays in these stories.
I firmly believe that throughout our lives we encounter friends and acquaintances; co-workers and colleagues; coaches and mentors; instructors and teachers. Some of us aspired to actually become teachers, some of us ended up being instructors. Many of us aspired to be something all-together different yet we ended up "teaching."
The difference to me is that many can be an instructor - you have a knowledge you can share with others and help them make that knowledge their own. There are fewer people who can actually "teach" and by that I mean make a lasting impression on an individual and actually help them learn how to engage knowledge; how to tease it out of text books, and peers in their classes; people they work with; and yes, faculty members.
With this passing semester I have had it brought to my attention by several of my students that I was the first faculty member they encounters several years ago when they started (or restarted) their academic adventures. They said it was appropriate that I was also the last "teacher" they encountered on their journey at Granite State College.
As I stopped to reflect on the number of people who have crossed my path as a faculty member, or even as a "corporate trainer" I started to wonder how many of these people I had actually been able to "reach." Not just had them in my class, but left them with something tangible that will stay with them for their lifetime. It isn't a degree, it isn't a class, it isn't a textbook. It's a desire to not "unlearn" the lessons they have internalized and now see their own worlds as something different than it was last semester, last year or will be next semester or next year.
Adult education services and adult accelerated degree programs are sometimes viewed as simply about coming to evening or weekend intensive classes and getting through them while balancing life, family, work, and the occasional quiet moment for the harried student. We forget simply that we (faculty and students alike) share a brief moment of discovery and either we mark that discovery or we eventually lose it.
I've had students come to me and thank me for helping them gain a new perspective about their careers. They've given me a hard time about making their work environment a terrible place because that can't go back to accepting things as they are, things they know can and should be changed, and in some cases, things THEY can and should change to make their work environment more effective. Some of my students have thanked me for helping me get them re-engaged in their work or careers; some have thanked me for helping them make the choice to pursue something different, something closer to their heart and soul. Some have cursed me for long writing assignments that are akin to holding up a mirror and being asked to tell the truth about what you see. Sometimes knowledge, or the responsibility that comes along with it, can be overwhelming. It is our job, as faculty to work with you, the adult learner, to challenge your thinking...and it is your job as students, to challenge our thinking so together, when you graduate, you and the faculty you leave behind, can continue to make your make in the classroom as others follow in your footsteps.
I'd like to close this piece with two things:
First, a thank-you to the students that have honored me with their presence in my classrooms over the past 6+ years. You have taught me lessons that I will never forget and I will share them with others as long as there are new faces hungry for ideas walking through the doors at the college.
Second, for the students who have yet to walk into my classroom. You have big shoes to fill, ones left behind by other students who one walked into their first class. Bring every part of you to every class in which you enroll and I can guarantee that you will have the time of your life....learning lessons that will never leave you behind!
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!
Amber Card, U.S. Army, National Guard, Active Duty and Reserves
Friday, May 14, 2010 by
Leslie Bowering
At Granite State College without exeption we are fortunate to meet many young men and women who have served or are serving in our United States Military. But in their spare time or not they are also finding time to educate themselves within various programs that Granite State college has to offer.
Recently I was fortunate to meet Amber Card who is one of the students in a Survey of American Literature course I attend on Tuesday evenings at the Manchester, New Hampshire branch of Granite State College. Like myself, Amber is taking the course as a core requirement of a Language Arts Degree. She is also intending to achieve teaching certification as part of her education.
One evening before class I took the opportunity to interview her as a military veteran and as a continuing educational student at Granite State. She shared with me some of the daunting facts about her enlistment and her tour of duty. Amber participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom II. She was deployed from December 7, 2003 - March 2, 2005. During this time she worked as a Motor Transportation Specialist where she drove 5 tons, semi-tractor trailers and humvees. She pulled security for convoys, delivered supplies to troops including mail, food, and ammo. She also pulled security for the base and transported troops. Amber was also a Mortuary Affairs Specialist.
She briefly shared with me her thoughts and feelings about her military service. "I wouldn't necessarily change it but it was a very hard experience at 21 to absorb. It made me grow up very quickly and realize what was important in my life. I had to set new priorities."
When I said the word "horrible" and asked her about her immediate thoughts she said, " It was very real and you had to take the good with the bad. Five of my friends died over there and I'll never forget it but there's not a day that goes by that I don't appreciate what I have and realize what my friends gave up for me. That's why I feel I always push myself to go the extra mile.
Lastly, I asked Amber about her most significant experience. To this she replied, "Is when we had just moved into Iraq from Kuwait and within 24 hours our base got attacked and we lost someone and several were injured. It really changes your perspective right off the bat!"
Since my interview with Amber I listen more closely to everything she has to say in class. Immediately I notice the difference in the attention and detail she gives to the learning process. She speaks with such devotion and compassion about the children she will someday soon be teaching upon graduation from Granite State College this June. She is also pregnant with her second child, a boy. And one thing I do know for sure about Amber: She values life. She also values education and children.
Though I am much older than Amber I am humbled by her maturity and all that she has experienced in her very young life. Experience when it does not kill us most certainly makes some of us stronger. I am a better person for having met Amber and learned about her past life and her future goals. As a woman among many she stands tall and proud in my eyes.
Leslie Bowering
Recently I was fortunate to meet Amber Card who is one of the students in a Survey of American Literature course I attend on Tuesday evenings at the Manchester, New Hampshire branch of Granite State College. Like myself, Amber is taking the course as a core requirement of a Language Arts Degree. She is also intending to achieve teaching certification as part of her education.
One evening before class I took the opportunity to interview her as a military veteran and as a continuing educational student at Granite State. She shared with me some of the daunting facts about her enlistment and her tour of duty. Amber participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom II. She was deployed from December 7, 2003 - March 2, 2005. During this time she worked as a Motor Transportation Specialist where she drove 5 tons, semi-tractor trailers and humvees. She pulled security for convoys, delivered supplies to troops including mail, food, and ammo. She also pulled security for the base and transported troops. Amber was also a Mortuary Affairs Specialist.
She briefly shared with me her thoughts and feelings about her military service. "I wouldn't necessarily change it but it was a very hard experience at 21 to absorb. It made me grow up very quickly and realize what was important in my life. I had to set new priorities."
When I said the word "horrible" and asked her about her immediate thoughts she said, " It was very real and you had to take the good with the bad. Five of my friends died over there and I'll never forget it but there's not a day that goes by that I don't appreciate what I have and realize what my friends gave up for me. That's why I feel I always push myself to go the extra mile.
Lastly, I asked Amber about her most significant experience. To this she replied, "Is when we had just moved into Iraq from Kuwait and within 24 hours our base got attacked and we lost someone and several were injured. It really changes your perspective right off the bat!"
Since my interview with Amber I listen more closely to everything she has to say in class. Immediately I notice the difference in the attention and detail she gives to the learning process. She speaks with such devotion and compassion about the children she will someday soon be teaching upon graduation from Granite State College this June. She is also pregnant with her second child, a boy. And one thing I do know for sure about Amber: She values life. She also values education and children.
Though I am much older than Amber I am humbled by her maturity and all that she has experienced in her very young life. Experience when it does not kill us most certainly makes some of us stronger. I am a better person for having met Amber and learned about her past life and her future goals. As a woman among many she stands tall and proud in my eyes.
Leslie Bowering
Great time to go back to school at Granite State College
Wednesday, May 12, 2010 by
Betsy Gemmecke
What a busy and excitng time this spring has been! So much so that I have not taken time to blog. Our Conway NH College has been busy with lots of new inquires about our online programs and affordable bachelor degree programs.
I continued to offer our "Who are You" career opportunities education workshops and many participants have realized it IS time to go back to school! One woman in the North Country who had been looking for a job for a long time took this workshop, then changed the way she wrote a resume and approached her interview and GOT a job in the teaching field! Now she knows she is ready to take the next step to enroll in our Post Baccalaureate Teacher Certificate Program. ( I would love to know if we should do more such workshops for the college...Let me know!)
This weekend, hardy souls attended the Littleton Home Show and a number of people didn't realize that there was a Littleton NH College that offered Bachelor degrees. One woman decided to try out a summer class, after she learned that there were adult college classes in her area.
Yesterday I spoke to about 100 real estate agents and support people about Granite State College. Several told me that when people come to the North Country to explore housing, they ask about lifelong learning college opportunities. It felt great to let them know all about what is right here in the North Country!
A New Term
Friday, April 16, 2010 by
Beth McKenna
Starting a new term is always an exciting time at Granite State College. There are new terms for fall, winter, spring and summer so if you are thinking of taking an evening course or an adult education course there are lots of options. This semester I am teaching Child Development. There are people in the course who are enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program, the Elementary Education program, Behavioral Science and those who are just taking a course but are not enrolled in a degree program at all. That is part of the fun of a new semester, getting to know a new set of students and finding out about their backgrounds, and interests. So, as the new term begins, I am excited by the energy and enthusiasm of a new set of students, and I am also glad to reconnect with my students from past semesters.
A Unique Profile
Friday, March 5, 2010 by
John Cook
I continue to be amazed by the individuals that teach here at Granite State College. I'm pleased that this blog has provided an opportunity to trumpet news about so many of the unique people that contribute to learning at this wonderful New Hampshire State College.
Just the other day, Dr. William "Bill" Cuff popped by my office. To say Bill is interesting would be a true understatement. In addition to teaching behavioral science classes here at Granite State College, Bill teaches at UNH, and is also heavily involved with service projects, through groups like Danny's Team.
Bill was chatting with me about his upcoming class this Spring at our Portsmouth NH College - PSY 602, Theories of Personality. The structure of this class exemplifies the Granite State perspective on adult college education: it is a weekend-intensive that takes place over five Saturdays. Yes, Granite State offers affordable Bachelor degree programs, but weekend college classes also work for students with other obligations.
Bill is off to New Orleans and Mississipi next week for more service. As part of this trip he mentioned an opportunity to visit the hometown of Medgar Evers. His eyes were lit-up and intense, and I thought - right, so this is quite a person to have teaching here in our corner of the New Hampshire University System.
Just the other day, Dr. William "Bill" Cuff popped by my office. To say Bill is interesting would be a true understatement. In addition to teaching behavioral science classes here at Granite State College, Bill teaches at UNH, and is also heavily involved with service projects, through groups like Danny's Team.
Bill was chatting with me about his upcoming class this Spring at our Portsmouth NH College - PSY 602, Theories of Personality. The structure of this class exemplifies the Granite State perspective on adult college education: it is a weekend-intensive that takes place over five Saturdays. Yes, Granite State offers affordable Bachelor degree programs, but weekend college classes also work for students with other obligations.
Bill is off to New Orleans and Mississipi next week for more service. As part of this trip he mentioned an opportunity to visit the hometown of Medgar Evers. His eyes were lit-up and intense, and I thought - right, so this is quite a person to have teaching here in our corner of the New Hampshire University System.
Not Enough Time in the Day
Friday, February 5, 2010 by
Nicole MacMillan
I'm writing this post with my other hat on, that of an online educator. I'm currently teaching Developmental Writing online to students from GSC. Out of the NH Colleges and Universities, Granite State truly has it right in that our instructors are professionals in their fields and our small class sizes make both our online courses and face to face classes a close knit learning community. As a professional, wife, mother and friend, I can tell you that there is not enough time in the day for all of us to accomplish all the things we find of value in our lives. At GSC, instructors get that. We understand that we all have a lot of balls in the air and with many choices of colleges to take Portsmouth NH classes and more and more online schools for adults, you will want to get an education somewhere that understands the challenges you face outside of school.
Adult College Degree programs where you can take classes at night or from the convenience of your own home, that are also affordable, are a rarity in the state. The quality of our programs for the cost is quite good.
Teaching writing online has been interesting. Many students feel they did not get the grammar and sentence structure education in their secondary school experience. Our Developmental Writing course helps students learn the basics to prepare for Accuplacer testing in Sentence Skills. I think my students would tell you that they have learned a great deal from the class so far...more to come!
Adult College Degree programs where you can take classes at night or from the convenience of your own home, that are also affordable, are a rarity in the state. The quality of our programs for the cost is quite good.
Teaching writing online has been interesting. Many students feel they did not get the grammar and sentence structure education in their secondary school experience. Our Developmental Writing course helps students learn the basics to prepare for Accuplacer testing in Sentence Skills. I think my students would tell you that they have learned a great deal from the class so far...more to come!
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