Trials and triumphs of a middle aged student

I just finished my capstone course last semester and needed only one more elective credit to complete my adult education degree in Business Management from Granite State College (GSC).  Because GSC is part of the University of New Hampshire System we are eligible to attend classes at Keene State College, Plymouth State University or the Univerity of New Hampshire for direct credit.  These are not treated as transfer credits but instead the grades are calculated into our GPA’s just as if they were earned from a GSC course.  In this particular situation not only does the credit and grade from this PSU course count towards my affordable Bachelor degree at GSC but it also satisfies one required elective course in the MBA program at PSU which I am pursuing after graduation.  I took a graduate course through PSU in the fall as well.  I will graduate from GSC with my Bachelors degree and already have two required graduate courses for my MBA accomplished.  This is referred to as double dipping.  I get the credit for having taken four courses at the investment cost and time of only two classes!  

The course at PSU which I chose to take was “Women as Leaders.”  The class met for a long weekend at a charming Inn in Waterville Valley.  The class utilized four seasoned educators who possessed incredible synergy with one another.  My classmates were a diverse group of strong, accomplished and enthusiastic women who empowered one another through the bonding experience.   I gained valuable knowledge, insight and networking contacts from this weekend.  I also gained some weight as the owner of the Inn is an accomplished chef who presented us unbelievable meals three times a day!  Did I forget to mention that this course included a room and board fee?  I had a room to myself and ate better than I ever could have at home.

This was my second experience with the weekend college classes format which includes room and board and incorporates a 24 hour learning experience.  I cannot adequately express everything that is gained from such an arrangement.  If flexibility and opportunities are what you are looking for, stop right here; you have found them.