Compared to the traditional college setting, Thomas Edison State University distance learning programs offer significant flexibility for the adult student balancing work and family obligations. No classrooms, rolling semesters, and a variety of degree programs present the prospective student many choices. In order to be successful and graduate from Thomas Edison State College, here are some keys to achieving your desired collegiate goals.
1.) Talk to an advisor about the degree programs
Thomas Edison offers over 30 different online Associate, Bachelor, and Graduate degree programs. With so many options, finding the best one for your goals can be difficult. Do you want to complete the easiest program or the quickest? What degree would support your future occupation or further your current career?
Thomas Edison’s advisors understand the different programs and can help guide you toward the best program. They can explain what programs match your background, occupation, or future career. They know the benefits of each program. Ultimately, they can help you figure out what you really want to accomplish from college.
2.) Get all the credit you can
One of the great benefits of Thomas Edison is their transfer credit policy. Unlike some colleges, Thomas Edison is open to granting adult learners “life credits”. Whether obtained from another college, the military, or by completing a Prior Learning Assessment, these credits will help lessen your degree requirements.
Again, contact the Thomas Edison advisors about transfer credits and a learning assessment. The staff is well-versed at identifying which programs are best suited for the prospective student based upon their educational background. They can help identify which courses you can receive credit for, and which ones you can “test out”(such as passing a CLEP exam), then narrow down the field of programs to a few which offer the best degree in the shortest period of time.
Talking to an advisor helped me reduce my degree requirements in half. I was able to “test out” of three different classes and receive credit for my military background. As a result, I completed my Bachelor’s degree in less than 2 years. By comparison, one traditional university “offered” me one elective credit for the same background and no ability to “test out” of similar courses.
3.) Reach out for help when struggling
As much as you try to be part of a class, distance learning can be isolated. Without the classroom, it is much harder to get a sense of class with the other students in the class. When challenging issues occur, do not be afraid to ask for help. Contact the professor and/or other students if you are having problems with a subject.
Also, independently research the issue online. For me, I found a number of wonderful videos about math subjects on YouTube. Sometimes, a different perspective can help, but do not solely rely on this information. Be sure to check back with your professor to make sure you have a grasp on the subject.
4.) Select interesting courses
Each degree program offers the student the chance to select electives that are outside of your degree requirements. Talk to advisors about popular courses. Choosing subjects that interest you make studying more enjoyable.
For me, courses on Middle East history and Religious Studies were both intriguing and refreshing. Another course, “American Cinema”, was amongst the most popular courses offered. College is a lot of work; learning something interesting will make studying more enjoyable.
5.) Graduate
Graduation is one of the few “traditional” college activities that Thomas Edison offers. Thomas Edison provides up to 10 tickets for the graduate’s family and friends at no charge, discounted rates for local hotels, and other events for graduating students. Take full advantage and come to Trenton, New Jersey for the weekend.
During my graduation, I met students from all walks of life: prior military members, single parents, career changers. Each graduate was beaming; proud of his and her accomplishment. The families were just as excited, as cameras flashed for nearly every graduate. It is a powerful moment; one that everyone who completes his or her degree should partake in.
Robert Morgan is a freelance author and engineer. He received his Bachelor’s Degree in Nuclear Engineering Technologies from Thomas Edison State College in 2012. Robert also served nearly ten years in the U.S. Navy on submarines. Originally from East Berlin, Pennsylvania, Robert now resides in Rhode Island.