UC Connections

Graduation Day and Dreams Fulfilled

2010-05-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

When I first started going to college, friends and family thought it was just a "phase" I was going through. Well, that “phase” is about to culminate in a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University. I will soon be starting a new career as a mentor to people who decide to continue their education. As a Career Services Representative with a local college, I will help people succeed in their educational and professional lives, the same way I have. What a great opportunity higher education has given me! I am so grateful for this remarkable journey, and look forward to using all the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired as a part-time adult student.

I began my journey by taking two college classes offered at a local high school. I wanted to get a taste of what it would be like to do homework and be away from home for one evening a week. Those two classes transferred into a degree program offered through University College, so I only had forty more classes to go! But somehow, I knew I could do it. That is the first step in going to college as an adult – believing in yourself. It's not about worrying how you are going to pay for college or find the time to do the work. Anything you do to improve your life and the life of those around you is never a waste of time or money.

Going to school almost felt like a second job to me, only it was the professor who was my supervisor. But unlike my real boss at work, she encouraged me to take risks and express my ideas. School fit easily into my life. Instead of watching television I found myself reading "Thinking about Social Problems" or "Understanding Nutrition." When I wrote papers, I found that they helped me organize my thoughts. I met new people and learned how to use the computer, which helped me communicate better. I started to look at the world as a place of opportunity and adventure. I had new goals, and I began to realize that anything is possible!

I took online classes and science classes with labs that were nothing like the biology and chemistry I remember from high school. I found myself wanting to learn. I discovered classes that met on the weekends for one month, and a summer session called MAYmester that allowed me to earn three credits in one short week. Before I knew it, I was a junior in college!

To make it this far I had to pay a lot of attention to myself – something I wasn't used to doing. As a wife and mother I had always put others first. But now I found myself participating in clubs and lectures on campus. I applied for scholarships, and next thing I knew I was standing at a podium thanking people who believed in me enough to provide funds toward continuing my education. Thanks to college, I have experienced things some people only dream about – like being in a television commercial!

This is my last blog post for University College. I have enjoyed blogging for UC and sharing my thoughts about being a part-time student at Syracuse University. If any of you would like to continue this blog by posting about your own college experiences each week, please e-mail parttime@uc.syr.edu. I promise to be your biggest fan and leave encouraging comments. I also encourage you to pay regular visits to UC’s Facebook page!

Good luck to all of you as you continue your own educational journey!
Roxanne

Career Plans + College = New Opportunities

2010-04-22T08:09:00.000-07:00

Usually when adults return to school it is about a career change. But a layoff can also open the door to new opportunities and a new career. If you have been out of the job market for a while it can be a good idea to take advantage of new job search resources. The way we conduct job searches and interviews has changed. Networking, social media, and salary negotiation are all important when looking for new employment. It’s not unusual to go through three interviews before being offered a position. A salary negotiation interview might be followed by the adjustment period where you try out your new job. Gone are the days of filling out paper applications and being offered a job on the spot.

One of the best ways to prepare for a new career in today's competitive market is by attending workshops that specialize in preparing people for a job search. On Saturday, May 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. there will be a Job Preparation Seminar open to the public at the Family Worship Center, 8480 Morgan Road, Clay. This seminar will offer the resources needed to find a job in today's economy, including networking and social media networking. There will be workshops on resume and cover letter writing, along with salary negotiation and resources for entrepreneurs.

One of seminar coordinators is Me´Shae Brooks-Rolling, president of Rolling Enterprises Inc. in Fayetteville. The goal is to have participants walk away with the valuable information needed to conduct a successful job search. Brooks-Rolling has contributed tips for landing a job and offered career advice to the MoneyWise section of the Post-Standard. She is also a certified FDIC Money Smart Trainer and is a financial literacy instructor at Syracuse University.

I encourage you to take advantage of this free event to prepare yourself for a new career. Registration is required and can be made by calling 315-652-3491, or by e-mail: RSVP@lifeatfwc.org. Remember, career plans can lead you to new opportunities! I have often attended events such as this and now I am interviewing for a new job. What I have learned has helped me become one of the final candidates for a new and exciting career! I will keep you posted.

Roxanne

Flexing Your Intellectual Muscle

2010-04-14T05:49:00.000-07:00

One of the best ways to flex your intellectual muscles is to go hear people speak on campus. Often, their perspective on a topic can help us to see ourselves differently. These new thoughts spill over into our daily lives, and what seemed insignificant at one time is important to our success.

Last night I went to hear Nadege Charles, vice president and talent development manager at JP Morgan Chase & Co. She reinforced the notion that there is no direct path in life and we should always keep an open mind. Originally she went to college to become a clinical psychologist. She never imagined herself working in the corporate financial world, but a paid internship at JP Morgan Chase & Co. changed all of that.

Charles reminded us there are no limits when you have a college degree – only opportunities. When we continue our education in the liberal arts it enables us to analyze and organize ideas, think critically, and communicate better with others. We become well-rounded and learn to be flexible. A liberal arts student sees the big picture yet focuses on the details.

She also offered some practical tips to help us learn how to sell ourselves as college graduates who are entering a new career path:

Keep current with the news happening globally
Take a minor or at least take classes that are part of a minor
Understand your field
Volunteer and get involved in extra-curricular activities on campus
Don't be afraid to ask questions

Charles also stressed to attend things you wouldn't normally attend, like a business presentation if you are a psychology major. You never know what may come from it. And one last thing to remember: don't limit yourself! You always have options.

Hope to see you on campus!
Roxanne

An Invitation for You

2010-04-06T07:50:00.000-07:00

As someone who is currently pursuing a college degree part-time, I have learned that one of the best things I can do for myself is to attend events offered on campus. The same is true even if you are not currently in a college degree program. There is something for everyone here at SU.

Please join me on Tuesday evening, April 13, at University College to hear Nadege Charles, vice president and talent development manager with JP Morgan Chase & Co, talk about how life skills can fit nicely into a liberal arts education. Charles has more than 15 years’ experience at JP Morgan Chase in human resources. She knows firsthand what employers are looking for in an employee when it comes to hiring or promoting in the workplace. Charles finds many of these skills in a liberal arts education.

Many people think going to college means knowing exactly what it is you want to do. Although many degree programs are designed to focus on one area of expertise, a liberal arts education can be worth exploring. All employers need people who can communicate effectively, analyze information, and think not only critically, but creatively. A degree in liberal arts offers these skills and much more. It can give you a competitive edge in today's job market.

I will be graduating in May with my Liberal Arts Degree. I am confident this educational path can take me in many different directions. I recently applied for three jobs that require a bachelor's degree and I have an interview later this week! I am excited about telling the employer how much this degree fits their qualifications.

So whether you are considering returning to school to start a college degree, or complete one you never finished, a degree in liberal arts might be worth considering. I encourage you to bring a friend to UC and learn together what each of you can do to leverage your career choices. Go to http://suce.syr.edu/blsemail/to R.S.V.P. and learn more about this informative presentation.

I look forward to seeing you there!
Roxanne

Reflecting on the Value of Education

2010-03-29T12:09:00.000-07:00

When taking classes, you will be around a diverse group of people. I often envy the younger students in my classes, because even though they might go to school, go to work, or be involved in student activities, they still usually have only one person to focus on - themselves. On the other hand, older students like myself have the added responsibilities of taking care of others. This can make it difficult to finish a degree. But it is good to know it is not impossible to finish once we start.

Because of the demands on my time, including wanting to spend time with my family, it seems I need to be "in the mood" to complete my homework. So I try to pick times with little interruption. I might get up earlier on the weekend, or there were times I went to the public library while my daughter was at her evening marching band practice. But there's nothing like when an assignment is due tomorrow to put me "in the mood."

In the five years it has taken me to complete my bachelor's degree I have learned more about myself than I did in the previous 44 years. I graduated from high school, started a family, worked jobs to help support my family, and had a few setbacks along the way, but I always felt there was something more. Continuing my education helped to teach me what was missing. For the first time in a long time I feel in control of my future and have the confidence to handle whatever uncertainty life gives me.

Thanks to my own desire to pursue a college degree, combined with my previous life experiences, a passion has surfaced. Now I am looking forward to starting a new career where I can help others achieve their personal and professional goals. My newfound self confidence and success has influenced everyone around me, especially my family. It feels good to understand and reflect the value of education.

Roxanne

Top Ten Places for Adult Learners On Campus

2010-03-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

Over Spring Break I was thinking about places on campus that I have discovered over the years. Today I would like to share them with you. In no particular order, they are:

Advising Office: When deciding to continue your education you will need all of the support you can get. Advisors can help you finish what you started. They are familiar with classes being offered and want to help you to succeed with goals and objectives you can accomplish. Advisors understand and encourage you to keep going.

Financial Aid: When deciding to return to school, this is the place that can help make it happen. They have information about how to pay for school, including student loans, grants, and scholarships.

Marshall Square Mall: Offers everything your local mall might offer plus a few extras. Not only is there a bookstore, places to eat, and a gym, you will find a Post Office, Copy Center, and a place to study or meet up with others. If you need some cash, there is an ATM. I enjoy reading about upcoming events on the two large bulletin boards, and there are free community newspapers available.

Marshall Street: Not far from Marshall Square Mall is Marshall Street. More shopping, restaurants, and places to people watch await you. One of my favorite places to stop for a cup of coffee is Starbucks. It has free Wi-Fi, and I always seem to run into someone I know from class. Across from Starbucks is the Whitman School of Management. I like to sit and watch the Whitman students coming and going or go inside the building and admire the architecture.

Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center: This hotel, owned by SU, offers two restaurants, conference facilities, and a friendly tailgate party before the football games. Season's Bar and Grill often has live music during the week and it can be a relaxing place to bring a friend or spouse for conversation about how much school has influenced your life.

Schine Student Center: The hub of SU, the Schine Student Center boasts SU Bookstore, computer labs, and even offers a quiet place to study. Go upstairs to find comfortable chairs and a fireplace! There is a food court on the main level with a variety of hot and cold food items along with plenty of seating. Schine is the home of Career Services, Goldstein Auditorium, Office of Student Activities and Multicultural Affairs. Next time you walk by, go inside and explore this three-level cultural space.

E. S. Bird Library: Located next to the Schine Student Center, Bird Library has much to offer not only students, but the public too. Whether you want to find a book, do research for a class, or learn how to cite a paper, this is the place to be. If I were to list all of the educational services this library and the others on campus offer it would take a while. Bird Library has a new intimate coffee café called Pages, complete with a sandwich menu and snacks. Behind a partition there are vending machines and even a microwave. Stop by and visit today!

Quad: Up the hill behind the Hall of Languages there is a community space where you can sit on a bench and watch students play Frisbee, or just relax and take it all in. You will notice all the places you can visit, including the beautiful Hendricks Chapel, which has a student-run coffee bar downstairs called Peoples Place. There’s also Writing Center, where you can get help with writing papers, and the famous Carrier Dome. The Quad is the happening place to be on campus, especially during a warm, sunny day.

Life Science Building: Also known as the Life Sciences Complex, this is one of SU's newer facilities and it is located across from the main bus stop on College Place. Here you will find a stunning atrium complete with a dining facility. Located just off the atrium is the home of SU's Information & Technology Services (ITS). They are happy to help you with solutions to technological problems you may be having with your own computer or an online class.

Any college on campus: There are more than ten schools and colleges on campus. When walking on campus, don't be afraid to go inside and explore. You will find places to eat or have coffee. There are libraries and career centers, and many colleges have a "Wall of Fame" where you can read about people who took their education to another level. You will be inspired as you walk the halls and take in all this campus has to offer you.

Remember, this is your University and your education. Make the most of every moment. Join a club or organization, because you never know where that next step will lead you!

First Impressions Count

2010-03-08T07:16:00.000-08:00

Syracuse University is both a college and a city within itself. There are people to meet, things to see, places to go. Recently I attended an event on campus called "Dress for Success - First Impressions Count" put on by SU's Career Center. This fashion show was about what not to wear, and what you need to wear, when going on a job interview. Most of the students in the audience were much younger than I am but we were all there for the same reason: To look our best when going on a job interview.

As non-traditional students we may be part-time, but we have full access to this University. This is an exciting time to be an adult learner. I feel fortunate to be experiencing the latest trends and discovering my new abilities. Education offers us improved communication skills, both written and verbal, enabling us to get what we want out of life. When I am on campus at an event, I feel proud to be representing University College. I find many young students are shocked when they learn I am an undergrad. They often assume I am a graduate student or staff member, but then a smile always comes across their face, followed by a comment like, "Good for you!"

Sitting in the audience, being a part of this University, I admire all of these young people who have their whole lives ahead of them. What a great beginning these young graduates will have in the working world. Years ago, my introduction to the working world was something like, "just tell me what you need me to do so I can make money." In contrast, these young graduates can introduce themselves by saying "this is what I want to do to earn a living." Although it might have taken me 20 years after high school to realize the importance of a college degree, I feel just as confident as this younger generation to take this educational opportunity and make a difference.

Another thing we learned at the Career Center event is that when you go to an interview, you have just 30 seconds to make a good impression. As an adult who decides to continue your education, you now have an impression that lasts a lifetime. Good for you!

Roxanne

Support is Important for Adult Learners

2010-03-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Whether we are going to school or not, it is not easy to make time to do the things we want to do. As adults who return to school, sustainability is something we really need to complete our goal along with believing in our own abilities. What if there was a way we could help each other succeed?

Just like the traditional students on campus, many of us here as non-traditional students are on different schedules. The difference is we come to campus, go to class, and then go home to our "other" life. But as mature learners we are all alumni; we have a common bond. I want to make that connection stronger. Wouldn't it be great to talk with each other about classes we have taken? Maybe we could loan each other our textbooks or tutor one another. We could share what we have learned on campus – good places to study, the best place to get a cup of coffee or a snack before or after class. What college resources have we used to help us along the way?

I think deciding to return to school as an adult who has a family to care for or a full-time job is a gamble. You give up something from one thing to gain another, but taking this risk is part of the educational reward. For some time now, I have wanted to start a support group on campus for adult students who juggle the many responsibilities of life while trying to earn a degree. Wouldn't it be nice to talk with others who really understand what it means to put schoolwork ahead of housework? But how could I start such a group, and where could we meet? Why would people make time to come and what's in it for them? Support!

I would like to call our group A.C.E.S. (Adult Continuing Education Students) because as non-traditional students we all have a winning hand. Classes can sometimes be the luck of the draw. We make a personal bet with ourselves that we can do this and the payoff is our college degree. Just like deciding to continue our education, there is much to think about when starting something like this, such as what days and times would work best for our non-traditional student club? I thought about starting with a family event, because after all, many of us wouldn't be here learning without the support of our families and significant others. I don't want to limit our club to just UC students, so why not open it up to others we know who are working toward their degree at other colleges?

I would love to hear your thoughts about beginning a Central New York non-traditional student organization. Any suggestions or ideas would be much appreciated. Please email me at rmbocyck@syr.edu or leave a comment. Hope you are having a good semester!
Roxanne

Connecting College to a New Career

2010-02-16T07:06:00.001-08:00

When I entered the workforce after graduating from high school. a person could walk into a company, fill out an application, have an interview, and be hired on the spot. Those days are long gone. Today, getting a job means applying online, posting your resume, and hoping the company contacts you for an interview. Even if you are fortunate enough to get an interview, there is no guarantee of a job offer. Although today's job market has changed, there is something you can always count on: the value of a college education.

It is not unusual for employers to receive fifty or more applications for one job. Having a college degree can prevent your application from going into the "no" pile. Employers value the integrity a college graduate brings to their business. Recently I attended a local chamber workshop teaching job search skills and we were told one of the most frequently asked questions is, "I have 10 years of experience in management but I don't have a degree, why don't employers account for my experience as much as a degree?" The answer by our job coach was, "Because they can." Does that seem fair? No, of course not, but that is just the way it is. If you want to get ahead in life you need to further your education.

That is the reason many of us as adults return to school. Whether we want a promotion at work or want to change careers, obtaining a degree gets us where we want to go. Employers want college graduates who have a variety of skills, including communication, teamwork, strong work ethic and analytical skills. At SU there are always people taking time to talk with students about career choices. Whether it's a panel of experienced professionals taking questions, a human resource representative from a global company sharing interview tips, or a leader in the community giving advice about the value of networking, they all say the same thing: a college degree can help you achieve your goals. Taking time to learn from others is never a waste of time. In fact, it can inspire and motivate us.

Although I take every opportunity to get advice on how to put together a good resume, understanding the importance of excellent interviewing skills, and making the most of career fairs, I am still an adult who has many years of work experience. Sometimes this is a pro and other times it seems like a con. As an experienced player in the game of life it is important to have a positive attitude but at the same time keep things in perspective.

Young or mature, the job market can be a tough place. But if you treat your job search like a class assignment, you will not fail. College has taught us how to plan, research, organize, and reach goals. Before you apply for a position or attend a job fair, do your homework. Visit the company’s web site and gather all the information about it you can find. Look at the company's job openings and clarify what skills they are seeking. What makes you a good fit? Your Career Services Center can help you contact companies that have alumni working there. College alumni are one of your best resources when it comes to learning about companies or considering a career change.

Remember – the purpose of a resume is to get an interview. Once you have done your homework, you can tailor your resume and cover letter. Highlight your job skills that relate to the position you are applying for. When going to a job or business fair prepare your "elevator speech." This is a short commercial where you talk about yourself and your qualifications: Name, major, opportunities you are seeking, experience, skills, what you know about the company, etc. Remember, this is still a professional interview; dress your best, smile, and have questions to ask the employer. Always get the name of the person you spoke with and send them a thank-you note.

Connecting college to new career can be an exciting time of life. Take what you are learning in school and apply it to your future job search. Education and employment is a win-win situation.

Roxanne B

Online classes help you finish what you started

2010-02-08T07:34:00.000-08:00

These days, there are many different ways to start or finish a college degree. If you work during the day and think that making the time to travel to campus in the evening is your only option, think again. All you really need is a computer and the desire to try something new. Studying from home is nothing new – there are still "study-at-home" programs available where an individual can complete their coursework through the mail. Just like a correspondence class, an online class is a great way to make going to college fit your schedule.

Many people are skeptical of online classes. They have only learned in a traditional classroom and cannot imagine how a class taken via the internet can work for them. The only difference between online and physically sitting in a classroom is face-to-face interaction. Any class can have its challenges, but online classes are more a matter of convenience. Even if you prefer to be around people, online classes offer a great deal of interaction with other students – albeit online interaction. There is a lot of discussion going on, and I think online classes offer a great opportunity to become a better communicator.

Taking a class online requires the same things as a traditional classroom setting with desks and a blackboard. On the first day of class you are given a syllabus outlining required readings and assignments. You introduce yourself to others with a short bio, and some professors even encourage students to include a picture. Sometimes an online class can be more interactive than the usual classroom because it seems easier to participate. No need to worry about running out of class time when you want to contribute to the conversation. Everyone gets a turn to have input. These classes use a standardized web site such as Blackboard, making it easy to navigate around the classroom.

I am currently taking an online class, and I like the fact that if I have a question about an assignment or reading the professor is just an email away. Unlike a traditional day or night class where I might wait until class meets during the week, my online class gives me the ability to enjoy instant communication. It can be a challenge to make time to complete a class online, but it can also be very convenient. I can contribute to class discussion anytime day or night. Sure, there are times when I miss interacting with others in person, but the flexibility I have with online classes helps me to move closer to completing my degree without spending more money on gas.

If you have any other questions about online classes or would like to share your experiences, we would love to hear from you! Please leave a comment.

Here is another blog from a returning 'Adult Learner' in Chicago who writes about her experiences with online classes: http://tinyurl.com/yg4glon. As adult learners we need support not only from our family but from each other. Together we can achieve our goals!
Roxanne

Super Semester

2010-02-01T10:52:00.001-08:00

Just as the teams that have made it to this year's Super Bowl, adult learners are gearing up for the day when they achieve their own Super Semester. That final semester and all-star game where the participants have one goal in mind: Graduation. Just like the football teams, adults who continue their education need a purpose, enthusiasm, discipline, and sometimes a little luck to come out on top.

Some of us are still in the first quarter. We feel the excitement of learning and the possibilities seem endless. The whistle blows and it's our first kick-off. Our friends and family cheer us on as we eagerly run with the ball. For some of us, we have waited a long time for this moment.

As classes begin and we get our assignments, the work begins to pile up. We get out our student planners and fill in the squares. Time is precious and every second counts in this game. Sometimes we will throw our hands in the air, wanting a time-out. It's not unusual to take a moment and look at our playbook and figure out our next move.

Our semester half-time is in March, except we call it spring break. This is a scheduled week with no classes. While many younger students take this time to party and have fun, we spend our time catching up on assignments or studying for a test. As adult learners, the only break we get is fewer demands on our time.

Before we know it, another semester comes down to one more play, and another chance to score three credits or maybe more. Sometimes we look back and wonder how we ever made it through. We are tired but we are determined. Between our jobs, family, and other responsibilities we can see the goal line. Maybe we should just kick a field goal and not go for the touchdown. It is at this moment I find myself thinking of people who never make it this far. For whatever reason, continuing their education wasn't on their scoreboard. As adults who return to school we have taken a risk, we are that player who runs towards the goal line, turns around, and catches that football to score a touchdown. What a feeling!

Yes, all of that hard work and dedication you put toward getting a degree will come down to one final semester. Remember, when it's time for your Super Semester, we all come out winners. Hope you have a great season!

Roxanne B

Five Myths About Returning to School

2010-01-25T07:16:00.000-08:00

During my years here on campus I have spoken with many people who are thinking about continuing their education. Many of them have shared their fears with me and now I would like to share them with you. Do any of these sound familiar?

Myth 1: College is too expensive

Many people think they can't afford college, but the truth is you can't afford not to go. Today’s workplace requires employees who are innovative, flexible, and open to change. Expanding your mind and increasing your education makes you a more valuable employee. There are many ways to pay for college. Sometimes your current employer offers tuition reimbursement. The possibilities are endless! And you won't know until you begin the process. We all worry about money. But if you don't further your education, how can you ever make more money than you do now?

Myth 2: College is for young people

When I was in high school I wanted to be a teacher, but I didn't think I could go to college. Somehow I had convinced myself that my only option was to graduate and get a job. If only I had taken the initiative to talk with my high school guidance counselor about my goals, maybe I would have been one of those "young" people on campus. Instead, it took me 20 years to realize there is nothing holding you back but yourself. College is for anyone who wants to learn! As a nontraditional student you will be surprised by what this younger generation can teach you, just as they'll be impressed with your motivation and knowledge about life. Every generation has its own thoughts, feelings, and ideas based on their life experiences, and being in a classroom where generations learn together can be inspiring.

Myth 3: I don't have time

Correction: you have nothing but time! Today's college student is pro-active and the classroom can be on or off campus. When it comes to taking classes there are so many options. Online classes are a great way to earn college credit at home or at the office. Here at SU there are weekend classes and accelerated classes; these options shorten the amount of time it takes to complete a class. There are summer sessions and MAYmester opportunities. Time is something we all share equally. Think about this: 42 hours in front of the television is equal to the amount of time you would spend in a classroom earning three credits toward a degree!

Myth 4: You need to be good in math and science

Some of us decide to attend college after we have been out of school for many years. We may think back to high school math and science classes - like algebra or chemistry- and we try to forget. But somehow we still managed to receive our high school diploma - and that's good! If for some reason you didn't finish high school, there are still ways for you to attend college. Some of us may already have college credits that can transfer into a degree program, lessening the time it takes to graduate. Math and science classes can be a challenging but you are not alone. Professors are very understanding and will do all they can to make sure you succeed. Who knows, you might find these classes enjoyable, leading you down a path you never even considered until now.

Myth 5: You will need to write papers

So what happens if you start taking classes and one of your first assignments is to write a five page paper? That would be good! Learning how to better organize your thoughts and support a viewpoint with facts is a great social skill. Every professor wants you to succeed, and don't be surprised when you learn the person sitting next to you has never written one either! Just like any college student you will discover new strengths and weaknesses about yourself. You don't have to be a rocket scientist to write a paper, you just need an idea. One great thing about SU is they have this wonderful place called the Writing Center. The students and faculty who work here are glad to help. No, they won't write your paper but they will give you the tools you need to succeed and show you how to use them. Before you know it you will have a solid foundation of knowledge that will support you for the rest of your life.

If you have any other concerns about returning to school or if you have any myths of your own to share, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you!

Roxanne Bocyck

Here We Go Again!

2010-01-19T07:26:00.001-08:00

This week many of us begin a new semester – some of us for the first time. I remember beginning my college journey and not thinking about the 114 credits I needed to complete my bachelor's degree. I was more excited about just getting started. During my quest there have been times when my goal seemed impossible and so far off. But in just five short years I have done it, and now I have just one semester left!

Attending college as an adult means going to school while other people are enjoying leisure time. We convince ourselves to wait until the end of the semester to have our free time. You would think this would make us appreciate it even more, but sometimes it can be hard to adjust. During the recent holiday break I kept busy planning family gatherings, shopping, and wrapping gifts, but after New Year's I found myself with too much time on my hands. However, starting today I will have no problem deciding what to do with my leisure time – I will once again be involved with reading assignments, group projects, and writing papers. I will once again have a purpose. When you become a college student as an adult it can be difficult to relax and enjoy time off.

Last week my husband and I went to Florida to visit my in-laws, who have had many years to fine tune their leisure time. These two are from the generation of gold watches and pension plans. They didn't need a college degree to have a well-paying job – just 45 years of commitment to one employer. As I sat in silence having coffee one morning I heard the clock on the wall: tick, tick, tick, and realized how time is always passing us by, no matter where we are or how old we are. I thought about the five years it has taken me to complete my college degree and I realized not once did I waste any of my time. During my time in Florida it was hard for me to adjust to the leisure life of my in-laws. Being with them made me realize how motivated I am to begin a new semester and complete my degree.

I enjoy spending time preparing for life with college. There is a place in my home for doing homework and keeping my school books. For each class I purchase a spiral notebook for taking notes and a pocket folder to keep important papers. My organizational skills shine as I plan meals for the week and shop for healthy snacks to bring to campus with me. It is important to have a book bag that zips at the top to protect textbooks and papers from the winter weather, along with a warm coat, gloves, hat, and waterproof shoes for my walks on campus. But most of all, I have a positive attitude about what I am doing with my life.

Five years ago I had no idea how going to college would change who I am. As a college graduate I am facing a slow economy and a tough job market, but I'm not worried. I am excited about sharing with my future employer all I have learned these past five years. I have turned my leisure time into an education and now have so much to offer. I hope college life does the same for you. Have a great semester!

Roxanne

Warming Up with Education

2010-01-08T13:17:00.000-08:00

Right now in Central New York it looks as if winter will be around for a while. This can mean a lot of time spent inside. One of the best ways to beat the winter blues is to occupy your time with something that makes you feel good. For some this means getting involved with outdoor activities; for others it means staying inside and watching the snow fall. Going to college part time can be as exhilarating as a day on the slopes or as comforting as sitting in front of a glowing fireplace while sipping a cup of hot tea.

This time of year, when it comes to self-improvement, many people choose to join a fitness center. Committing to a college class is the furthest thing from their mind. They believe the magic of the machines will change their lives for the better. This new resolution is going to transform them into someone who is more confident and better looking. Some people never learn that confidence comes from how we feel on the inside, not from how we look on the outside.

There was a time when my confidence was out of shape and holding me back from opportunity. I wanted to change and feel better about myself, so just like the people who join the gym; I started on the outside with diet and exercise. I would lose weight and felt confident -- so confident I would start eating the way I used to. I had convinced myself I would never be fat again. Boy was I wrong. Over time my confidence would begin to fade and I would find myself right back where I started. At the end of 2004 I resolved to change my life with a college degree instead.

It is now 2010 and because I have gained my confidence through education it has never left. Now looking back at me in the mirror is a woman who knows the importance of discipline and self-worth. Because my confidence has grown from the inside, it now shows on the outside. I feel proud of myself and it is the commitment of college that has enabled me to take better care of myself.

When you decide to change your life with education, magic begins to happen. Even if you already have a college degree you can start a new one. Most likely a lot has changed since you first graduated. Why not upgrade your skills or learn some new ones? If you have never attended college before, now is a great time of year to take some classes. Just like the thrill of being in a gym for the first time, there is nothing like the feeling of being in a classroom surrounded by people who want to improve. Nowadays you can even take online classes and learn in the comfort of your own home. Before you know it, spring will arrive and you will have gained a confidence that never leaves. And even if you decide to take a break from learning you will still benefit from what you have accomplished. Education stays with you for a lifetime.

If you're already enrolled in classes for this semester I hope you enjoy the warmth of learning. If not, classes begin here at SU on January 19th. Why not beat those winter blues and get started on a goal to complete a degree? You will continue to grow and feel great long after the snow melts.

Roxanne

A New Start

2010-01-04T09:33:00.000-08:00

A New Year often gives us a new perspective. Those of us who decide to return to school are doing something to change our future. Learning something new expands our horizons. Starting a degree or finishing one tells others we are disciplined and committed. It speaks highly of our ability to set goals and achieve them. Education is a resolution that you can keep.

Some of us are lifelong learners. We have a question and are not afraid to find the answer. We want to make our life better so we learn something new. Not everything we learn has to have a college credit attached to it. For example, this week I will be attending an 8 hour training class about how to create and maintain a web site. I always want to learn more! I am preparing myself for a career after I graduate. I don't want it to be the day of graduation and find myself thinking, "What am I going to do now?"

People of all ages go to college and become so focused on finishing they don't take time to think about the end result. The time to think about what you are going to do after graduation is not the day after but the time before; while you are still in school. Good planning helps you to choose the right electives and courses. You may find yourself changing your major or adding a minor. You may decide to do some volunteer work or try an internship in something that interests you. That is what is great about college – it’s a time to explore your options.

There are some great places on campus to discover your choices. Do you make use of the College Career Center? At SU, even after you graduate, you have access to this career resource. College Career Centers have connections with employers. They can help you update your resume, arrange a mock interview, and offer all types of career exploration workshops. Orangelink is SU's own web-accessible database system. It is a great tool that can help you plan for future employment. But don't wait until after graduation to use it. Orangelink can help you now!

Another thing to keep in mind is to go and talk with people who are doing what it is you want to do. You never know where those conversations might lead you. That is how I ended up being in a commercial for University College. I have always been interested in public relations work. One of my class assignments was to write a paper about someone who works in a career I was interested in. My first choice was the PR department at UC. It was there I interviewed Mary Beth. As we talked she inquired about my desire to go back to school later in life. Before I knew it she was interviewing me! A few months later she contacted me about being in UC's fall ad campaign. You can watch my commercial on the UC web site.

Just like a New Year, college can be a fresh start. A person is never too old to learn. I hope your New Year's resolution brings you one step closer to starting a degree or finishing the one you have. Plan to succeed and you can achieve anything, especially with education! Happy New Year!

Roxanne B

Frequently Asked Questions

2009-12-15T08:38:00.001-08:00

As an adult deciding to go back to school and start a degree – or finish one you started – you you will probably have some questions. Not only do you need to decide what you want to study, you need to think about how you are going to pay for it. Then you may wonder if it is worth it. After all, how can we put a price on education? So your first question may be:

Is it worth it?
College is a value you place on yourself. I have met people who spend more money than I would spend on a car or a home. I have also met young students who will owe much more than I would consider spending on a college degree. But when it comes to spending money on an education, there is no right or wrong answer. A college education is definitely an investment that will never lose value.

Will going to school take too much time?
Time you spend on improving yourself is time well spent. Going back to school will place demands on you that can be difficult to handle. Remember when you were in high school and it seemed more important to go out with your friends and have fun than to stay home and write a paper or study for a test? Remember how you didn't want to go to school on Monday because you knew the teacher would be collecting those papers? Going back to school as an adult gives you a second chance to get it right. You will be amazed how good you feel when you are prepared and organized for class. Time management will be your friend, not your enemy.

What about filling out forms like FASFA or for financial aid? I might make a mistake!
We are human and it is natural to have fears about things we don't understand. The good news is there are people who can help us with things that may intimidate us. People who work in college admissions and bursar offices are trained to help you succeed. Sometimes it's the idea of filling out a form that scares us more than actually doing it. You don't need to be a rocket scientist to answer the questions. Many forms have instructions you can refer to and if you still have doubts, there is always someone who can help you.

I am afraid of change. How do I know this will work for me?
Whether we like it or not, the world is constantly changing. What better way to be prepared for these changes than to learn that change is good? I have never met anyone on campus who regrets going to school – in fact, I 'm always getting their support. Not every class you take is going to be easy, but nothing worthwhile ever is. I remember in one of my first classes we had to write a paper and use MLA citations. I was nervous because I didn't know what that was and I was not alone. Several of us – even students who had just graduated from high school – approached the professor after class and expressed our confusion. She took some time in our next class to give us some handouts and went over how to cite our work properly. I was already changing.

I don't have any extra money. How will I pay for college?
This is probably the most frequently asked question, and with good reason. This is the one question that keeps people from starting or finishing their degree. When I wanted to attend college I didn't know how I was going to pay for it. But when I met with my advisor, I was given choices, not ultimatums. Our federal government offers financial aid, the state offers incentives like grants, and even the college offers programs and scholarships I didn't know existed. Many of the costs associated with higher education are affordable, no matter what your income level. Even your employer may support your effort to learn and if you are currently unemployed, school is a great way to motivate yourself toward a career by doing internships. If you have the desire you will find a way to get started and keep going.

Thank you for reading this blog. If you have any other questions I would be happy to offer you some advice or help you to find an answer. As adults who return to school, we often learn best from each other. Please leave your question or comment below. Thanks!

Roxanne B

Addicted to Education

2009-12-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

Another semester is coming to a close and this is the time I like to reflect on what I have learned about myself these past four months. This was the first semester I took all of my classes during the day and although most of the people in my classes were much younger than I am. I didn't have any problems fitting in. I enjoy being around the diversity of students on this campus.

I like being part of college life because there is always something to do. This semester I was on campus every day and soon it became clear to me how easy it is to spend time here. Even when I came home I would want to immerse myself in school work. Sometimes I would put too much pressure on myself to do my best work every time. I convinced myself that each paper or project had to be the best it could be, no matter what the cost to my personal life. I became addicted to school.

I had to do a lot of group work in my classes this semester. This can be a challenge with people you don't know and with people of different ages. I like to think group work makes me a better person. Sometimes it tests my patience and other times I discover my leadership skills. One thing is for sure, group work is good experience to use in a job interview. You can talk about how you took charge when nobody else wanted to or how you helped to make the project successful. Either way, working with others whose values are different from your own helps you to understand yourself even more.

Early in the semester, I had to drop a class after three weeks. Luckily there was an accelerated online course I could enroll in so I didn't lose out on the three credits. Sometimes during a semester you may need to drop or change classes because of things beyond your control. Maybe the class wasn't what you expected or you just felt uncomfortable. Either way, it is good to know there is room for flexibility when it comes to doing what is best for you.

Looking back on my semester I learned more than what any book could have taught me. I realized how an email can mean one thing to a sender and a totally different thing to a receiver. Some things are just better said in person. I value the importance of balancing school and family obligations. Putting too much effort into your personal relationships is never a bad thing. Also, getting a grade of a B or a C is okay. At the end of the semester you still have 3 credits and once you have enough credits you will have a degree. College is not about being on the Dean’s List or graduating with honors; it's about the fact that you did it. Nobody can put a grade on the reward of an education.

I would love to hear about what you learned this past semester. Leave a comment and enjoy your winter break!

Thank you,
Roxanne Bocyck

The Letter

2009-12-08T06:36:00.001-08:00

For two months my life has been turned upside down, but at the same time I was on cloud nine. After three interviews, I was waiting to hear if I got the job that seemed so perfect for me. I would put my cell phone in my pocket during class just in case I got the call. In November when it was time to register for spring semester I chose classes that wouldn't interfere with my new job hours. I felt confident I was making all of the right choices.

In the summer of 2008 I left my job as a school bus driver to take a position with a company as an assistant writer for an organization that creates training materials for the school transportation industry. Six months later I was laid off due to budget challenges in the company. But I wasn't worried because I had someone in my corner – college. So I focused on school and did an internship with University College. That internship opened up more opportunities, such as this blog. I continued on with summer classes and a full schedule in the fall. Now I am only one semester away from my degree.

Because I am a writing major I look forward to a career as a paid writer. One day in September I learned of a job where I could be a public information officer. Because of my background in safety as a school bus driver, my experience with writing for all types of media, and my college degree, I felt confident enough to apply. My first interview was with a panel of six people, and the second was a little less formal. The third was with the Chief himself. Part of me felt relieved the process was taking so long because the closer I was to the end of the semester before starting a new job, the better. My last interview was a week ago. Yesterday I still hadn't heard anything until I went home and saw the mail on the table. I could tell from the look on my husband's face the news wasn't in my favor.

But for me this is not the end of the world, it's just the beginning. At the same time I was waiting to hear about that job I was offered the chance to write for another organization's web site. I also learned of a fellowship opportunity for graduating seniors at SU which helps a student explore paid internships after graduation that can lead to a full-time career in the Syracuse area. The program provides students the opportunity to take graduate-level classes at SU related to their chosen field. I also know SU has a great career center, career fairs, and a large alumni network to help students succeed. Even though I didn't get the job I was so sure was my destiny, I know there is something better waiting for me.

Sometimes it feels strange to be so uncertain about my future and at the same time understand that I am in a good position. But this is what education does – it puts you in a good place despite life's adversities. It gives you choices and opportunities. But opportunity is not always going to find us; sometimes we need to find it. That is another thing college has taught me: if you want something better for yourself, then don't be afraid to go find it. Nothing is stopping you except your self-doubts.
Roxanne B

Exciting News

2009-12-01T08:24:00.000-08:00

If you are already in college, or have just decided to start, you will begin to experience exciting news. Whether it's getting an A on a test you studied for or finding out you will be starting college classes next semester, college is the beginning of an exciting time in your life.

Some people in my family do not understand my reason for going to school. If I could give them a concrete answer, maybe they would be satisfied. Sometimes I don't know what my actual job will be, but I know going to college will help me decide. This uncertainty scares them but excites me. I enjoy writing, researching, and public relations. I like to create newsletters, press releases, and blog posts. I want a career that helps communicate the goals of an organization. It feels good to know what I want instead of having to take whatever I can get. Going to college and completing a degree has given me a reason to believe I can do anything I want to do.

Each of us has a unique story to tell while we are going back to school as adults. I started in 2005 and after this semester I only need to take a few more classes and I will have my bachelor's degree. It feels good knowing all of my hard work and sacrifice has brought me to this point. About a month ago I applied for a position that would allow me to write, be creative, and relate to the public. I eagerly submitted my cover letter and resume, with help from the career center. Out of 50 applicants I was chosen to be interviewed. Then the field was narrowed down to four and I was interviewed again. I was anticipating good news when the employer called and told me I was now one of the final two. Wow! I felt so excited knowing I was being considered for employment with an organization that appreciated communication, creativity, and education.

Yesterday I had my third interview with the highest person on the organizational chart. It felt good to relate my life experiences with my educational background. Unlike past interviews where I would be one of the final candidates with lots of experience, but no college degree, this time I had both. As I proudly showed examples of my writing and talked about what I have learned in college as an adult, I realized how much my education has helped me both personally and professionally.

It has taken me many years to appreciate the opportunities life can offer. Many times I have felt there were no choices, only demands to please others, and once they were happy, then I would be happy. But that's not the way it works, first you have to please yourself. I try to convey this message to my grown children so they won't live their lives thinking they cannot do what they really want to do. But they look at me like I am from another world. Sometimes they believe the choices they have made up to this point cannot be changed. In certain circumstances they are right, especially when it comes to family. But being a Mom or Dad is something to be proud of. Being a Mom or Dad who goes back to school is definitely something to be proud of. Being a parent takes discipline and responsibility, just like becoming a college student later in life.

I left that third interview feeling I had much to offer my potential employer. Hopefully they will call and say, "You're hired!" My next post will give the answer. Until then I hope the college light of exciting news shines on you.

Roxanne Bocyck

A Thankful Adventure

2009-11-25T06:56:00.001-08:00

Ever since feasting on my bounty of college learning I have much to be thankful for. Just like the pilgrims who came to America and started a new life, I have started mine. When you decide to become a college pilgrim, people may doubt your desire to go to this new land. They might think you're wasting your time. What's wrong with staying where you are now? They don't want to untie you from the dock. What if you don't come back? Oh, you'll be back, but you won't be the same person who left.
Sometimes I think that the hardest part of going to college is the fear of change. Yes, things will be different. There may be dishes in the sink, dust on the shelves, or the garden may have a few more weeds than usual; going to college definitely changes your priorities. It also helps your family realize they may have to do some extra things around the house so that you have time to do your homework. But when a semester ends, and you do have more time, you begin to notice how others have changed too. They may cook dinner, clean up the dishes or ask you to take a look at the garden they weeded while you were at school. Just like you, it's growing.
My family has grown since I started going to college. Not only do I have new relatives to love, I now have an extended family of advisors, professors, staff, and college friends. I am thankful to have all of these people in my life. One thing you need while going to school is a support system of people you can rely on. You will find yourself making some big decisions along the way, and knowing that these people are there for you can help you make better choices.
I used to sit around waiting for my ship to come in. I spent years hoping for the right time to go back to school. But then one day I realized if I wanted to set sail on a new adventure, I had to swim out and climb aboard. Once I got there people said to me, "Where have you been? We've been waiting for you!" I couldn't believe how things began to fall into place once I made that first move. Now I am not afraid to open my sails and let the winds of change push me over the next wave. What a feeling!
As you take a little break from school to enjoy the holiday, don't forget to thank those who have helped you the most along the way: your family. Even though they might complain at times, deep down they are proud of what you are doing. You are becoming something they never expected and they are becoming your number one fan. I know it can be hard to focus on family when you have a paper to write or a test to study for, but going to school isn't forever. There will be a graduation day when they can have you all to themselves again, but this time they will be more thankful and appreciative.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Roxanne Bocyck

I Was Thinking About My Future

2009-11-20T07:25:00.000-08:00

In my last post I told you about my desire to attend college but I was having a difficult time finding a degree program that fit around my schedule. I thought I had explored all of my options, but little did I know there was one choice I hadn’t considered: Syracuse University.

I had convinced myself the dream of a college education had faded away. I told myself I should just be happy being a school bus driver. One day at my work there was a new job posting for an Assistant Transportation Supervisor. I had many of the qualifications listed, so maybe I didn’t need to go to college after all. Perhaps I could get this job and work my way up to Transportation Supervisor and then…well, who knows? It seemed fate had intervened. It had, but not in the way I was thinking.

I wanted to make sure I left no stone unturned in becoming a candidate for this newly posted position. In the past, I have always created my own resume, but this time I wanted to have a professional do it. Every day on my bus route I passed a small cottage-type house with a crafted wooden sign prominently displayed in the front yard that read, “Resumes, Etc.” So I phoned the number and arranged to meet with a woman named Terry.

As she looked over my past resumes and the description of the job I was applying for, she offered me a cup of tea. Terry told me getting to know her clients helps her to personalize their resume. I told her about my interest in going to college but that I hadn’t found a degree program that fit my schedule. She asked what I was interested in doing and I told her writing. Terry said, “I have a niece that attends Syracuse University for writing.” I told her, “That’s nice, but I could never afford Syracuse University.”

Despite my denial she invited me to ride to the campus with her. She had placed an advertisement in The Daily Orange and wanted to get a copy. I agreed and the next morning after my bus run we rode to SU. It was a beautiful, sunny, late-spring morning. The campus was buzzing with students and the bare trees were getting their first hint of green. We crossed a street where students were waiting with backpacks and wearing small headphones at a large glass-enclosed bus stop. As we walked across the Quad I remember seeing Hendricks Chapel for the first time and noticing how majestic its pillars and tall steps seemed. She took me in a building where a stack of newspapers called The Daily Orange were in a wooden bin. “Let’s go upstairs. I’ll show you where my niece attends classes.”

We walked the halls and read the bulletin boards. Blue office doors with frosty glass windows had flyers and newspaper articles taped to them with each professor’s name. We walked by classrooms with empty desks and Terry pointed out a wall full of writing classes offered that semester. Somehow going to college here felt possible. She encouraged me to check into it. I told her, “Well, if I don’t get my new job, maybe I will.”

About two weeks later I picked-up my new resume and Terry invited me back to SU to hear an author speak about how they became a paid writer. Afterward, we had a slice of pizza at the Schine Student Center. I looked out the large windows at the Hall of Languages. I wondered if it was really possible for me to attend college here.

Over the summer I was offered an interview for the job. A few weeks after my interview I was informed they had hired someone else. I was disappointed, but it wasn’t the end of the world. In fact, it was just the beginning. Not getting that job was the best thing that ever happened to me. In the fall, I went back to school bus driving. I also called University College about part-time study at SU. Through the catalog they sent me I learned they offered a degree program in communications with a focus on writing. Best of all, I could complete this degree program with a combination of evening, online, and weekend college classes. UC offered financial aid, grants, and other incentives to help me get started. Before I knew it I was meeting with an advisor, filling out the application, and writing an essay on why I wanted to attend college at Syracuse University.

Now it was a new year and I was starting my new life as a part-time college student at SU! Five short years later I am looking at graduating with my bachelor’s degree with a major in writing. I have learned that anything is possible if you really want it. So many good things have happened to me since I started going to college. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming!
Roxanne B
Class of 2010

What Was I Thinking?

2009-11-16T08:41:00.000-08:00

I started going to college as a part-time student when I turned 44. Before attending college I had taken classes at a local BOCES to learn computer skills and attended training workshops relevant to my past jobs. But this was the first time since high school that I was enrolled in a degree program that required me to write papers and do homework. What was I thinking? How would I make time for school, work, and family? I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I also knew it was something I had to do if I was going to take my life in a different direction.

Before starting college, I used to think working a job for a paycheck and health insurance was my only choice. Never mind if I wanted to do something else for a living, I should just be thankful to have a job. I used to dread Sunday because the next day was Monday and I would have to get up and go to “work.” Every week I lived for payday, Friday, or a vacation day. Life was passing me by and I felt trapped. There seemed to be no way out.

Then one day I heard someone say on a radio talk show, “If you keep doing the same things, nothing will ever change.” My body ached, food was my escape and the good feeling of having new furniture or a new car didn’t last as long as the time it took for me to pay for them. I needed something more. Something that would be there for me even when the couch faded or the car lost its shine. So I began to think, if I could do anything I wanted to do, and look forward to Monday, what would it be?

I have always enjoyed writing. Everyone needs to communicate, so I volunteered to write for my employer’s newsletter. I volunteered to be the secretary at meetings I would attend for my children’s school or in my neighborhood. I wrote articles about my community in two weekly newspapers. I kept writing and created a portfolio for myself. I felt confident this was going to get me a new career. But the newspapers I was writing for didn’t have any full time openings. Many of the jobs I wanted to apply for required a college degree. Even when I would become one of the final candidates for a job that interested me, the tiebreaker would be the candidate with a college degree. That’s when I decided if I was going to be the one who gets the job, I would have to go to college.

So I started looking at schools in the Syracuse area where I could earn a degree in writing and communication. Because I couldn’t afford to quit my job and go to school full time, I looked for a college that offered night classes. But unless I wanted to be a nurse, psychologist, or business major there weren’t very many choices at that time for adults who wanted to go back to school in the evenings. There were online degrees, but because this was my first time going back to school as an adult I wanted the social aspect of being in a classroom. I wanted to be able to talk with my teacher and make new friends in my class. What was I going to do? It seemed my goal of going to school at night was fading away, just like my living room couch.

To be continued…
Roxanne Bocyck

Why go to college?

2009-11-10T10:34:00.000-08:00

If you are considering going back to school part time, University College offers information sessions to help you get started toward a Syracuse University degree. But you don’t have to attend one of these sessions to consider pursuing a college degree. You can call UC and talk with an advisor any time you like! If you decide to register for classes, they can give you the paperwork needed and answer questions you may have when deciding to further your education. Questions such as: Do you currently have any college credits? Does SU offer classes that you are interested in? Do they fit your schedule? What are ways you can fund your education?

I have met many adult learners during my time here at SU. When I ask them why they are taking classes, some of them say, “Because my employer makes me.” When I hear that answer it makes me sad because I feel they are missing out on a great opportunity. They tell me, “I just have to pass so my classes get paid for.” Wow, I couldn’t imagine putting all the time and effort it takes to go to college as an adult and feeling that it is “no big deal.” If I had an employer who was helping me to pay for my education I would want to do more than just get a passing grade. Otherwise, aren’t I wasting my time and their money? But that’s just my opinion. I think going back to school should be something to be proud of. If you’re only here to get a passing grade then that is like being at a job where your only motivation is a paycheck.

Did you know going back to school as an adult just might change your attitude about things, including yourself? Making time to attend a class means making time for you. In turn, making time for you can mean taking time away from others. Taking time away from others sometimes makes them say things to you that can make you feel guilty. This can lead to an adult learner reconsidering going to school. Some of us can’t stand the pressure and stop attending classes. But some of us learn to tell the others that finishing a degree is important to us and this motivates us to balance our time better.

Because going to school part time can take longer than the traditional route, family members in our lives can get impatient. But as students we learn to communicate better with them and make it over the next hurdle. I have met people who have taken many years to finish their degree. But they are just as proud as anyone who was able to do it in less time. Their smile is a mile wide as they walk the stage to accept their diploma. In life we have nothing but time.

We have all heard anything worthwhile is never easy. As I sit here and look back on my college journey it has been one of determination, fear of failure, pride, forgiveness, excitement, and thankfulness. Sometimes it can be lonely and other times I appreciate time alone. Not everyone wants or needs a college education but if it is something you really want to do, know there are ways to make it happen. Nothing is holding you back but your own doubts. Why not make an appointment today to speak with an advisor or attend an information session? You never know where that first step might take you.

College Offers a New Perspective

2009-11-06T08:38:00.000-08:00

College Offers a New Perspective

This has been a busy semester for me. Normally I would take six credits, but this time I am taking 10. Usually all of my classes would be in the evening, but this semester I have late afternoon, morning, and online courses. This schedule puts me on campus at different times of the day and I like it. Being on campus during the day gives me a whole new perspective on college. It helps me to appreciate more the time I am spending here as a student. I get to interact more with staff and understand the important role they play in our education. Whether it’s the janitor that cleans the classrooms, plumbers who keep the water flowing, or the cashier at the dining hall, SU employees are people we should take time to appreciate.

I always take a moment to say hello to our staff or at least ask them how they are doing today. I like to see people smile. I thank the person who just finished cleaning the bathroom and when I see an employee pushing their big cleaning cart in the halls I take a moment to say hello. Imagine my surprise when one of my class projects included writing a play about the people who work here at SU. The professor gave us transcripts of union staff who were interviewed about their working lives at SU. The goal of the short play SU employees will perform is to help people better understand what it’s like to work in a unionized job.

Because I was in a union job for twelve years as a school bus driver, I bring an understanding perspective to the assignment. When our group met with the employees in class I already knew two of the three people through my conversations with them in the hallway at Schine or when they would come into the office to empty the trash while I was interning at UC. The other students in our group admitted that, until they were assigned this project, they didn’t pay much attention to the fact that somebody actually cleaned the bathrooms and classrooms they use each day.

Life has an amazing way of putting us in circumstances we never thought possible, especially when you’re an adult going back to school. Not only am I helping to write a play, I am meeting new people every day who offer me the chance to see the world differently. I used to see the glass as half empty and now I see it as half full. You can be focused on all of the bad or you can start going to college and appreciate all of the good. My education has opened doors for me and now I hold the door open for others, like the person pushing the cleaning cart.

There are other employees here who contribute to the success of SU who are not in a union. People behind the window at the registration office, advisors, or people you talk with on the phone when you have a question about starting or finishing a degree. I hope you take the time to thank them whenever you can. You never know when you will have the opportunity to work with them for a class project.
Roxanne B

Feeling the Pressure

2009-11-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

If you’re an adult going to school with family and job responsibilities, you know what it’s like to “feel the pressure.” I just want you to know that you are not alone. There are times when I am pulled in many different directions: school, work, family, friends, etc. My attention is stretched to the limit. But when I am at college, learning and discovering new things about myself, I feel alive and happy. For example, in a television class I am taking I just finished writing, filming, and video editing my first commentary about SU that will be televised on Syracuse University’s Public Affairs Television Show CONNECT. I stayed after class and worked with another student on this until 10 p.m. and by the time I got home, it was hard to unwind. Sometimes I find myself always putting college at the top of my priority list. Trying to balance school work with my “home” work is not easy. Many times I feel guilty spending so much time on myself. So what is an adult learner to do?

The first thing we need to do is let our families know how much we appreciate them. If they kept dinner warm for you until you got home from class, thank them. If your child found a ride to soccer practice so you could finish an important project or your boss let you leave early so you could study for a test, don’t forget to let them know how much you appreciate it. When people in your family start to feel neglected because you are busy, give them a hug and tell them how much you value their support. Sometimes it seems we are being selfish when we put ourselves first. Friends and family can get frustrated because they’re use to having us all to themselves.
Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States said, “When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on.” When the pressure of college and life is getting to me, I have learned to take things one day at a time. I somehow manage to complete another semester despite the adversity it causes. There are moments when I want to give up. But then I realize how fortunate I am to have this opportunity I have created for myself to complete a college education. After this semester I will only have 11 credits to go!
I have read that when people do things like home improvement, plan a vacation, or purchase a house they can go through very stressful times. Well, those things sound easy to me compared to having the stress of going to school and finishing an education!
Roxanne

Planning for Spring 2010

2009-10-29T05:44:00.000-07:00

The semester is half over, Halloween is this weekend and now it’s time to think about spring. Spring? Spring semester, that is. Starting on November 11th we can sign up for our next semester of classes. There is much to think about before the fall semester ends. Below are some tips to help you plan for the upcoming semester. If you have some others, please leave a comment and share your tips with us.

Check with Financial Aid or the Bursar’s Office to make sure you are ready to sign up for classes. There is nothing more frustrating than going to the window, giving them your paperwork and having the person tell you there is a hold on your account or you don’t have enough aid to register. You can also check your financial aid online in your MySlice account.

Create a timeline for yourself. Look at your transcript (this is also available on MySlice). How many credits do you already have? Know whether you will be at freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior status. Some classes are only for sophomores or juniors. How many more credits do you need before you graduate? What classes do you need to take? Which ones are electives? If you see a class being offered in the spring that you need for your degree, consider taking it before choosing an elective. Remember, some classes are only offered every other year or when the fall semester occurs in an even year (e.g. 2010-11). Visit the Syracuse University Online Course Catalog. Click on Guide to Reading Course Descriptions at the top of the web page to see how often courses are offered.

Although University College offers classes in the evenings, online, or during the weekend you are not limited to just the UC catalog when considering classes. Look at the main campus catalog too. Maybe there is a class you can attend during the day that works with your schedule. MySlice is another way to look for classes. To search for a class, it is not necessary to log into the MySlice portal – just click on the "Search for Classes" link on the right side of the portal screen.

Now is a good time to make an appointment with your advisor if you have any questions or concerns. As the spring semester gets closer the advisors’ calendars get fuller. Avoid the stress associated with waiting until the last minute. Tension and anxiety can affect your decision making. Every choice we make when going to college needs to be taken seriously. College is something we cannot take for granted.

Have you declared your major yet or considered a minor? A minor is a great way to add a specialty to your resume. Declaring your major or a minor will help you to choose the classes you need or want. Take the time to explore your options. I have found that department representatives and professors in the different colleges are more than happy to answer your questions. Having a minor or dual degree can also be helpful if graduate school is in your future plans.

Remember, the only person who can achieve your educational goals is YOU. Take time to plan and think about where you are going and how soon you can get there. Obtaining a college degree as an adult is one of the most difficult things you will do, but it is also one of the most important. Whether you are here to change direction or to further your career, take time to plan . . . and then plan to succeed!

Roxanne Bocyck
Class of 2010

The Best of Both Worlds

2009-10-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

In my last post I talked about the different reasons adults go back to school. Whatever the reason, it can change your life for the better. I decided to attend college because I wanted a career and not just a job. I want to work with people and not for people. Choosing a career that lets me do this is not easy. In fact, at times it can be confusing.

“So, what are you going to college for?” This is a question I get asked by nearly everyone I meet. Because I am constantly exposed to different paths, I am not sure where my education will lead me. I often feel reluctant to answer. I felt weird telling others I wasn’t sure. As if what I was saying was wrong, but it isn’t. It’s okay to be undecided about your future because life is full of uncertainty. College has taught me the benefits of not knowing what is around the next corner. That is what makes life exciting! Predictability is not something we can count on.

When you attend college, don’t just go to class and then go home - take time to visit and spend a moment doing things on campus that interest you. Look at your college web site and plan to attend events or listen to guest speakers. At SU we are fortunate to have twelve different colleges ranging from Architecture to Visual and Performing Arts. Each college has its own web site; each has opportunities to explore careers and interests. You are spending time and money to be here, so reward yourself!

Speaking of careers, another great resource is a college career center. At SU this department is located in the Schine Student Center. The Center for Career Services has everything you need to explore, experience, or begin a new career. This department has books and trade magazines, career fairs, and advisors to help you focus and succeed.

As adults going to college we have the best of both worlds. We have the experience of life and appreciation for education. Add these two together and we have the ability to become anything we choose to be. Age is not a hindrance to our success, it is a blessing. I encourage you to spend time on the campus web site, but most of all, take the time to attend events and network. Try something new. You never know where it might lead to!

Roxanne Bocyck

Once Upon a Time . . .

2009-10-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

What made you decide to attend college as an adult? Was it to finish a degree or begin a new one? Did you get downsized from your job or is your employer paying for you to further your education? Whatever the reason, you’re doing it. Is it what you expected? Are you ready to throw in the towel or are you looking forward to the next round of classes? These are questions I have asked my classmates over the years. Each person has a different answer – every person I meet has a different reason for going to school. Some of these stories are featured on the University College web site under UC Stories .

For some of us, the hardest part is getting started. For others, it is finishing what we started. As an adult returning to school it can be difficult to put yourself first. Your family and friends may feel neglected because now you have another priority. In the beginning, we try to maintain our original schedules. We tell ourselves what we are doing won’t change our time spent with family, but it does. Going to college as an adult with a house, children, job, etc. forces you to change. It shapes you into a more organized and confident person. College helps you to appreciate your family more as they learn to value what you are trying to do.

Of all the conversations I have had with adult learners, I have never heard of college making them feel powerless. Sure, there are times we wonder how to get over the next hill, or when will we find time to read three chapters of Environmental Science, but somehow we do. When you feel good about yourself you will be a better person to others. I guarantee you’ll never hear an adult learner say, “Sure, I went to college and it was the worst thing I ever did.”

Still don’t believe me? I suggest you visit UC Stories web page and read about hopes and dreams … but never failure.

Roxanne B

The Rollercoaster

2009-10-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Just like every year, my semester has me on a rollercoaster ride. Before it begins there is the anticipation of experiencing something new and exciting. I have a positive attitude and a new spiral notebook. I have saved money by purchasing a used textbook and this time I have a parking pass. I have cleared my schedule and figure I will have plenty of time on the weekend to study. It’s nothing but blue skies and sunshine. I can do this!

As the semester continues I am climbing my way to the top, doing whatever it takes to get there. My daily schedule fills up with obligations, but not to worry! I have the weekend. No challenge is too difficult – look out world, here I come!

Then the weekend is here and I wake up scared. I think about all I have to do, including homework. The anxiety creeps in but I tell myself everything will be fine. I start the laundry and pay some bills. I then sit down with my books and the phone rings. It's my husband, and his truck broke down … could I come and get him? No problem! It’s only 9 a.m. and I have the rest of the day to study. Well, as long as I’m going out I may as well do some grocery shopping.

I get back home, ready to tackle my homework. But then my daughter stops by with my two grandchildren, ages two and four. Of course I am happy to see them. Would I mind watching them for a few hours while she does some errands? I put away my books and tell myself not to worry. I can work on my homework later.

Later, my daughter ends up staying for dinner. That’s okay, I have tonight to study. Later still, while my husband watches television, I manage to make time for some homework. I think about the days when a Saturday night meant time to forget about the week. I smile and sit at the kitchen table with my laptop and books. I feel better and am glad tomorrow is only Sunday, and not Monday.

Sunday comes and goes and the responsibilities of family and home rest on my shoulders. Trying to prioritize homework over family obligations is not easy, and I hold on tight as my day spirals away. Sometimes I wonder, “What did I get myself into?”

Monday is here and the weekend ride is over. I manage to finish my paper that is due by Wednesday and complete a 50 page reading assignment for Thursday. As the semester continues, I ride the rollercoaster again and again. Somehow all of this anxiety is worth the thrill of knowing I am completing a college degree that can take me on to an even bigger rollercoaster.

All I can say is, remember to enjoy the ride!
Roxanne B

Orange Pride

2009-10-07T12:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I began a new class. UC offers accelerated classes that meet for one weekend and the rest of the class is conducted online. The class from start to finish is six weeks. It is a great way to earn credits and complete a class when you have a tight schedule.
Many of the students in this class have taken an online class before and understand the effort it requires to complete it. It is not easy. Other than the time we meet in person for a few hours on the weekend, the only interaction you have with your professor and classmates is through Blackboard or e-mail. Online classes can also demand more participation. In a traditional classroom setting you might go to class, sit in the back row and choose not to participate in class discussion. But an online class requires participation. Many people like online classes for the convenience of working from home. I like it because I get to talk with all of my classmates and hear their thoughts about class material.
Because we are taking a 300 level class, many of the students are in their senior year, like me. Although there are a few traditional students, most of my classmates are part-time students. As we sat together waiting for class to begin, someone said they were confused as to why they were getting information about class rings and senior pictures. Doesn’t SU know they are not traditional students who came here after high school? I told them it doesn’t matter if you are a part time or full-time student – you are a Syracuse University student. SU does not separate us by age or credits taken. We are all a part of this campus.
Personally, I bought myself a class ring last year and I wear it every day with pride. It is a symbol of my academic achievement and how far I have come on my college journey. Because I plan to graduate in May 2010 I am having my picture taken for the 2010 Onondagan Yearbook. I also plan to purchase a yearbook as a memory of my years here at SU. The company taking the pictures will sell professional photos either individually or in a packet. Included is a picture of a graduating student in a cap and gown provided at the sitting. Yes, it’s just like when you graduated from high school, only better. You are graduating from college!
SU provides each student with the opportunity to make the most of their time spent here working toward a degree. I don’t have to tell you that going to college can be one of the most challenging things we do. I hope you take every opportunity to recognize your achievement. Be proud of who you are – you deserve it!
Roxanne Bocyck

UCEA Conference comes to Syracuse

2009-10-02T10:58:00.000-07:00

The University Continuing Education Association (UCEA) Annual Mid-Atlantic Regional Conference was held at Syracuse University this week. There were lively discussions about the important role continuing education for the non-traditional student plays in our colleges and communities. UCEA represents private and public universities and colleges. It is the international professional association for those working in higher continuing education and lifelong learning. Members of UCEA are the “movers and shakers” of continuing education, outreach, and/or distance learning.

According to InsideTrack, an organization that coaches higher education institutions, in 2006 more than 40 percent of students enrolled in post-secondary institutions were age 25 and older. This is expected to increase by 27 percent over the next ten years. It is important that colleges and universities take this into consideration when planning future programs for students.

During the conference I sat in on a panel of college presidents from area institutions, including Raymond Cross of SUNY Morrisville, Nancy Kleniewski of SUNY Oneonta, and Fred Pestello of Le Moyne College. They shared their thoughts about continuing education and pressing issues in higher education. All three agreed the face of education is changing and it is important for colleges to be a resource for non-traditional students. Colleges need to structure themselves so all students can benefit from higher education, no matter what their age or financial circumstance.

SUNY Oneonta President Nancy Kleniewski stressed the importance for college leaders to understand the needs of their communities. It’s also important that faculty cooperate and support the needs of non-traditional students. Le Moyne College President Fred Pestello agreed that it’s important to make students feel comfortable and welcome.

Although the cost of education can stretch a family’s budget to the limit, all three college presidents stressed the lifetime benefits of higher education. College is an investment that can pay for itself over the years. There are state subsidies and Federal grants available for students that can help many afford college. But according to SUNY Oneonta President Nancy Kleniewski, many of these incentives have stayed the same or even decreased over the years. After hearing this, I think as voters in the community and adult students we need to remind politicians to do more to help everyone afford college.

At the end of the session panelists were asked a few questions by the audience. One audience member asked, “As leaders in education, what do you recommend colleges do to help older students?” Dr. Pestello admitted colleges need to set priorities, but unfortunately, continuing education is not at the top of everyone’s list. He is not trying to minimize the importance of adults returning to school, but there are distractions. Dr. Kleniewski agreed that colleges need to focus more on continuing education, including everything from operations to faculty. SUNY Morrisville President Ray Cross, whose college doesn’t have a separate continuing education department, told the audience it’s all about choice. “If you feel like a second class citizen and that’s what you project, then that’s your choice.”

What about you, as a non-traditional student who commutes to campus do you ever feel like a second class citizen? What can colleges do to help you succeed? How can we come together and let our government leaders know the importance of post-secondary education for all?

~Roxanne Bocyck

Making Time for Homework

2009-09-30T05:57:00.000-07:00

One month of school behind me and only two months and two weeks to go. I lie in bed and wonder how I will manage to fit everything in. Somehow I always do. I have my “to do” list and my syllabus, my notebook paper and my notes, my books and my bag. But sometimes I lose my ability to plan for the unexpected. My husband is laid off, the dog needs to go to the vet, and my daughter needs a babysitter for a few hours. Meanwhile, my books are in my bag waiting for me. I convince myself somehow I will make it all work.

When I first began going to college it seemed easier to balance my time. It was something fresh and new. But now I know the time it takes to keep up with my classes and sometimes I wake up anxious and afraid of failure. Now more than ever I need my husband’s support, a tail wag from the dog, and a visit from my grandchildren to remind me what’s really important.

Sometimes I don’t want college to end and other times I count the credits and semesters until I finish. I don’t regret making the choice to have a degree; it has helped me to see myself differently. Last week I read that college doesn’t create new qualities in you – it brings out the ones you already had. When I was in high school, homework was something I put at the bottom of my “to do” list. Now it is at the top of my priority list but it still seems like there is something more important to do. The difference is, now I want to do my homework, and that is what motivates me to get it done.

This weekend I start an accelerated class that meets for two days and finishes online. Online classes are a whole new ball game and this is not my first one. Online classes take discipline and the ability to make time for class work, but what college class doesn’t? I hope your classes are going well. See you around campus!
~Roxanne Bocyck
Planning to be the Class of 2010, provided life goes as planned.

Learning to Communicate Professionally

2009-09-24T10:49:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons I started this blog is because I feel passionate about adults returning to school. I want to help people succeed and let them know, “If I can do it, you can do it!” Returning to the classroom after many years out of high school is not easy, but it is not impossible.

I have been a part-time student at SU since 2005. Because I am an adult who has been shaped by my life experiences, I occasionally question what I am being taught. Sometimes I want to speak my mind and usually I find a way to communicate my thoughts with others respectfully. In fact, after being in college a few years I like to think I have gained more confidence to express my thoughts respectfully with others.

Many of us take online classes where we post our responses on discussion boards. University College encourages you to join Facebook and post on this blog. It is important to remember that when you post something on the Internet, it stays on the Internet. Never write something that might offend others, such as racial slurs or comments, even in jest. Facebook can be a great way to keep in touch with family and friends but it can also be used to show the world what we do in our personal lives. Think carefully about what you communicate on the web at Facebook and other social networking sites. There is little privacy on the Internet. I learned in a career workshop that some employers are beginning to look at current and prospective employees’ social networking websites to find out who they are outside of work. Be sure that the web reflects a person you would be proud of.

I also want to remind everyone something about E-mail – it is not the same as face-to-face conversation. Sometimes the less said in an E-mail, the better, when it comes to asking questions. Don’t assume your reader can tell the difference between seriousness and satire. Words can say one thing, and body language can say another, but unfortunately with E-mail there is no body language or facial expression. There is no tone of voice to help get your message across.

As adult students, college can give us confidence and rewarding experiences, but it can also introduce us to things we are not familiar with, like the internet. College brings us out of our comfort zones and into a world of diversity. When using online communication, take the time to present your message professionally and be sure to consider the culture and values of your cyberspace audience.
~Roxanne B

Looking for Feedback

2009-09-18T11:30:00.000-07:00

Hello all! I have good news and bad news. I am happy to report we have had over 115 visitors to this blog. Thank you! For some reason, only a few of you have left comments. I enjoy sharing my thoughts about going to college, and I want to hear more from you. What inspired you to return to college? How has it affected your life? How do you balance the demands of making a living with school? Has the recession affected your decision to go to college, or did it force you to stop? As adult students we need to know we are not alone. Undergrad or grad, the demands of pursuing an education can stretch us to the limit and I would like to hear about how you manage to bounce back.

This blog is for your thoughts, opinions, and ideas about going to college as an adult. Some of us believe the reward will be worth the time spent away from whatever we used to do with our spare time. Do you? Others do it because we want to advance in our careers or try a new one. Which one are you? I know many of you have something to say about what it means to return to a classroom with people half your age. Did you ever walk into a classroom and have a professor who changed your view of the world, or did you somehow change theirs? Should more be done to help adults continue their education? Why or why not?

Maybe you have a suggestion for a topic or have a question about going back to school. I would be happy to respond. Please email me at parttime@uc.syr.edu or leave a comment by clicking on the link below. If you have tried to leave a comment but it didn’t post to the blog, please send me an email and let me know. I want this blog to be successful, but I can’t do it alone. Thanks for your help!

~Roxanne Bocyck

Fulfilling College Dreams - at ANY age

2009-09-15T10:57:00.000-07:00

During his visit on September 9 Vice President Joe Biden told a crowd of over 1,000 people on the SU campus, “There is no better ticket to the middle class than a college education.”

Last week SU Chancellor Nancy Cantor invited our vice president and his Middle Class Task Force to be part of Syracuse University’s initiative, Scholarship in Action. During her introduction of the televised event she talked about the “spirit of perseverance.” She praised those of us who are motivated to continue on to higher education. As part-time students who not only pursue our education, but raise our families, work full-time, and care for elderly parents, we know it is not easy to start or finish a college degree as an adult.

SU is involved with a program known as Say Yes to Education. Through this nationwide agenda, K-12 students from middle- and low-income families are told they can attend college despite their parents’ financial difficulties. As long as these students have the academic ability and desire to stay in school, institutions like SU will give them free tuition. I believe people at any age should have the resources available to attend college, either public or private.

It is obvious Vice President Joe Biden is proud of his Orange heritage. I hope those of you who attend this wonderful university feel the same way – I know I do. There is assistance out there for people who really want to attend college. It doesn’t have to be a dream, it can be a reality. I am living proof of that. Because of grants, scholarships, and other incentives, my SU education has cost me more in time than money.

During his visit to SU focusing on higher education, Vice President Biden talked about his administration’s Middle Class Task Force. This task force tells us without a college degree many of us struggle to have a career that puts is in the hierarchy of the “middle class.” Although the focus seems to be on children, I think the focus also needs to be on the adult student; the person who has the maturity to do good things in the community. We have raised or are raising our families, and now are ready to raise our own standards. Just because we are past the age of high school doesn’t mean we are past the age where we can benefit from a college education.

Vice President Biden said in his speech last week, “anyone who is academically able should have the opportunity to attend college.” I agree. The ability to succeed in life should not be based on our bank accounts. Maybe I can’t afford a Lexus, but I should be able to afford an education. As non-traditional students we need to make our voices heard. “Hey Joe, don’t forget about us!”
~Roxanne Bocyck

It Starts Now

2009-09-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

More than 48,000 SU football fans filled the Carrier Dome for this season’s home opener, and I was one of them! Syracuse University has thousands of students who fill the campus each day and I am one of those too. While I was at the game, it occurred to me how much the sport of football is similar to an adult learner wanting to score a college degree.

As older college students, we need our Pep Rally. People in our corner cheering, “You can do this!” We begin each semester excited to score 3, 6, or even 9 credits. We use our daily planners as a coach’s playbook, strategizing every step of the way to make time for homework, family, and ourselves. Time can be tight and the clock shows no mercy. As students, we fall-trip-miss the ball-get tackled-out of bounds-but then we score! As the game of college progresses each score represents another semester behind you.

To keep you a fan, your advisors are the ushers, showing you to your seat and pointing you in the right direction. You sit with a diverse cheering section of family, friends, co-workers, professors, and college staff. As the wave comes around and you stand up, hands high in the air, you smile and realize we are all in this together.

Halftime is time for recognition. The student Marching Band music is positive and upbeat. You made the dean’s list, received a scholarship, or got a hug from your biggest fan. People want you to succeed.

The second half of the semester is much like the first. You throw out your ideas in class and someone catches them. You huddle with others on a group project or you take a time out to have a cup of coffee with a friend. The refs can either help you score or hold you back, but it’s fourth down and you decide to kick a field goal – three more credits put you one step closer to your degree.

The announcer is the voice in your head, helping you to make sense of it all. College is your decision to make. You are surrounded by coaches, cheerleaders, and classmates. Everyone is part of your team and even if you are intercepted by life you will have another chance to make a play and score.

Yes, it’s a new college season full of possibilities and dreams of a better future. I hope you make time to tailgate and enjoy the time you are spending on your college degree. Go Orange!

~Roxanne

Knowledge Crowns Those Who Seek Her

2009-09-04T12:12:00.000-07:00

When I share with some people that I go to Syracuse University part time, they immediately think I must have money. The look on their face says, “Must be nice!” and the words from their mouth say, “Oh…wow…good for you.” I used to find the need to defend my economic status and explain that I’m not going to SU because I am wealthy. I let the thoughts of others influence my own. But I have learned to be proud of my accomplishments. I realize more and more every day that I am where I am because I wanted to go to college and have a career where I could write and be creative – and I did the work to make it happen.

As humans we have the innate ability to judge others. I have had professors who refer to the younger students as those “rich kids.” Syracuse University’s logo reads Suos Cultores Scientia Coronat or “Knowledge crowns those who seek her.” Rich or poor, mature or young, those of us who are going to college are being rewarded in many ways. We are learning to think with an open mind and plan for our futures. We appreciate diversity and understand the importance of thinking for ourselves.

Last week I had some family members visiting from Montana. My cousin Casey, who went to college straight from high school, seemed impressed with my passion to get a college degree as a non-traditional student. For twenty years he was a camera operator for a local television station in Great Falls until he was laid off in January of 2009. This layoff has left him uncertain about his future. He always assumed his job would be there, but due to changes in the field of television and journalism over the past twenty years, he now feels his degree in Broadcast Journalism is not up-to-date enough to get him a new job.

Some of his coworkers at the television station where he worked in Montana graduated from SU. So when I invited him to tour the campus with me, he was happy to do so. He had heard so many good things about SU’s Journalism program, and I wanted to show him the “Wall of Fame” at the Newhouse School — graduates who went on to become well known in the field of journalism and television sportscasting. I feel my cousin is one of the few who doesn’t judge me because I go to SU. In fact, the more we talk, the more impressed he is with my accomplishments.

So on Sunday afternoon I brought him to the campus. SU is much larger than the university he attended, and as we walked inside buildings like the Whitman School of Management, his eyes widened. He was impressed by the architecture, the décor, all of the places to study, and the brand new classrooms and lecture halls. As we walked onto the Quad, I could sense that he wanted to be a part of my educational world. I even suggested that he go back to school. At first he could come up with every excuse not to. “Oh, it has been too long since I’ve been in a classroom,” or “My math skills are so weak, I could never get over that hurdle.” But when I told him I couldn’t remember how to multiply a fraction or do algebra before I started my probability & statistics class – but I got an A – his outlook about school changed.

I took him into the Newhouse School of Public Communications. When he looked at the new technologies and computer labs available to students, he told me the college near his house where his brother works has similar labs and equipment. He even stopped and spoke with a professor whose office door was open. I was secretly hoping Casey might be getting the college bug.

Sharing our college experiences with others helps us to appreciate what we are doing. The next time your family or friends are looking for something to do, why not take them to your college and show them around. Who knows, maybe they’ll be inspired to return to school or sincerely say, “You go to this wonderful University? Good for you!”

Welcome Back!

2009-08-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone and welcome back to college! Whether you are a returning student or new to SU, change is in the air! Things in your life are about to become more challenging, making your weaknesses and your strengths more apparent. Whether you are a graduate or undergraduate student, every semester brings new experiences and a chance to learn something new about yourself.

The first week of school can be filled with excitement and anxiety. Who will be in your class? What will your teacher be like? I began my college career here at Syracuse in the spring of 2005. During my first week of classes I remember feeling nervous about being away from my family for two nights a week. Because of work hours I came directly to campus from my job and arrived home when everyone else at my house was ready for bed.

I keep a journal about my experiences to reflect on my feelings about what it means to attend school after 25 years of life experience. I would like to share with you what I wrote in my journal during my first week of college in January 2005:

“The hustle and bustle of college life … this campus is full of life. I expected more adults in my class but it seems I am the only one! I am even older than the teacher! Cell phones everywhere, guess I need to walk around campus with a cell phone up to my ear to fit in. I look around at this young adult generation and part of me wants to be young again. Right now it seems like there won’t be enough time in the day to do what I want to do. So I will need to prioritize and focus.”

“Here I am at the college in Slocum Hall, waiting to go to class. It has a café where I can get a cup of coffee, something to eat, or just eat my brown bag dinner. There is much diversity here and I wonder where I will fit in. I wish there were some older people in my CRS class, someone I could meet for coffee. But the only person close to my age is the teacher! I wonder what class will be like tonight… I wonder a lot, don’t I? It is kind of neat to be in this wonderland; a land of dreams – opportunities -- new beginnings. It’s as if life has given me a second chance.”

“Another snowy college class night. I hope I do well in college – in these classes I am taking. I sit here in my car, eating my peanut butter and jelly sandwich, watching the students walk by. I can only imagine what it is like to live on campus. Imagine being in total control of your life and the only person to worry about is yourself!”

I encourage you write about your first week of class, your first semester at college, and beyond. I guarantee you will enjoy looking back and reading about your experiences. I realize what a “scaredy cat” I was and how I have transformed into someone who now walks proudly among the students. Every semester I look forward to meeting new people and I admire the diversity of those both young and old who teach or take classes. I now understand that I am in control of my life. Since I am focused – and have learned to prioritize – my goal of a new career is coming true; all because I decided to start going to college for myself four years ago.

~Roxanne Bocyck

Creating a Road Map to My Destination

2009-08-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

The other day I was looking over my class schedule and comparing it to my personal calendar when I realized something I never thought about before – for the first time in a long time I am making decisions based on what I want out of life. Wow, what a feeling!

You see, most of my life I have been living by someone else’s rules. When I began my family at a young age, everything was about my children – where we lived, what we had for meals, and how I spent my time. It seemed natural to put others first. When I entered the “working world,” everyday decisions were made for me by someone else. Because I didn’t think college was important, I ended up working in very structured environments with limited choices. When I became a school bus driver I had a little more freedom to make my own decisions because I had time to myself between bus runs, and I had eight weeks off during the summer. It was during those free moments that I decided to attend college so I could have more freedom of choice.

Now, here I am again, deciding which way I want my life to go. But this time it isn’t because of my family or my job. My decisions are based on what I want, and sometimes this is difficult to get used to. My children are grown and I choose which classes to take based on my interests and what is convenient for me. But not everything we want is within our control. Eight months ago I was laid off from my full-time job as a writer and communicator for a non-profit school bus safety training company. Fortunately, this gave me the opportunity to do an internship. Now I have input into how the internship hours fit into my class schedule and responsibilities. I am creating a road map to my own personal destination.

Making your own decisions takes confidence, personal discipline, and a willingness to accept change. Three qualities I have because of my personal determination to attend college and get a degree. I still may fret over which route to take, but it is good to know I play a big part in how I will get there. What about you? I hope college has helped you to make personal decisions based on what you want from life.

~Roxanne Bocyck

Ready . . . Set . . . Classes Begin One Week from Today!

2009-08-24T10:29:00.000-07:00

Only one week until fall 09 classes begin; are you ready? If not, don’t despair, there is still time for some last minute things you may want to consider and make sure your first day of class will go smoothly.

For those of you who still might need to register for classes, and can’t get to campus during the week, UC will have additional weekend registration hours on Saturday, August 29th and Sunday August 30th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For new students there will be a New Student Orientation and Tour on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to noon.

This is also the week to check the SU Bookstore web site and see what textbooks you will need. Another good web site to visit is My Slice. Here you can access your class schedule to see where your classes meet on campus. There is also the Blackboard web page, which is accessible through the My Slice web site. Blackboard will list the classes you are enrolled in along with information posted from your professor, like the class syllabus. If you’re not familiar with My Slice or Blackboard, now would be a good time to get acquainted with these useful resources.

Back-to-school shopping isn’t just for kids anymore! Stock up on your own school supplies and make sure you have comfortable clothing and shoes for your seasonal walks around campus. A backpack can be a great asset when carrying books, folders, and snacks to class. Plus, it helps to have all of your school stuff in one place.

Parking is another thing some of us forget to consider when starting classes. Do not think it will be easy to find a parking spot somewhere on campus. The parking police will be in full force and a $20 - $50 ticket can put a strain on any student’s budget. This week, visit the SU Parking web site through My Slice and get your permit. Parking at Manley and taking the shuttle is easy and convenient. The buses run every 7-10 minutes and while you are waiting you can reflect on where you are and why you are here. You might even meet someone from one of your classes to talk with!

One more thing. Even though we are considered part time because we are limited by the number of credit hours we can take during a semester, you are as much a part of this campus as anyone. Take full advantage of all SU has to offer. Visit the main SU web site and UC web site often to learn about current SU events, news, and people. Together UC and SU are your ticket to a successful college experience. Hope to see you around campus this fall!
~Roxanne

Making Sense of It All

2009-08-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

Anything worthwhile takes time and energy. The commitment of going to college can conflict with what we originally thought was a priority. As adults returning to school, we sometimes question what we are doing and may wonder if it is all worth it. Sometimes classes can be frustrating. Other times we truly enjoy learning. We value time alone to reflect on who we are becoming and where we are going. It wasn’t until I began going to school part time as an adult with family and work responsibilities that I realized how important choices are. I used to think I didn’t have any more choices, they were already decided. Boy was I wrong. Welcome to the world of college!

Usually when driving my car I listen to news or music on the radio. One day I started listening to success stories and advice from people like Anthony Robbins or Zig Ziglar on a CD I borrowed from my local library. These authors enjoyed sharing their passion for lifelong learning. They talked about how to embrace change and uncertainty. They understood the possibility of becoming someone you want to be, not someone you have to be. We have the ability to be a better parent or to have a career we enjoy. One piece of advice I heard was, “You need to spend time with people you want to be like.” This statement helped reassure me I was making a good choice when it came to bettering my life with education. I wanted a college degree, and for two nights a week I was with other people who wanted the same thing.

I was used to being around people who complained about their lives and believed there was nothing they could do about it. I had relatives and friends who thought I was wasting my time going to college at my age. What was I trying to accomplish? One of my professors referred to these people as crabs in a crab bucket. As college students, we are bettering ourselves. We do things other people find odd, like spending time on a Friday night doing homework, when we could be out having fun. As we struggle to change, we make our way up the side of the bucket and get out of the company of crabs to a new life of opportunity. The other crabs grab hold of us and do everything they can to pull us back down into the bucket. It’s as if they are saying, “No! You can’t change! You belong down here with us!” We may feel resentment from others for even thinking we can escape the crab bucket.

Today I am proud to say I have made my way out of the crab bucket. I don’t let the negative thoughts or actions of others get me down. I understand better the importance of making choices that benefit me. Having goals makes me a person I am proud of. Sure, there are times when a crab grabs hold of me and tries to pull me down, but thanks to college I am a stronger person. I have the confidence to climb higher and farther than I ever dreamed. I'm no longer afraid of what is outside of the bucket!
~Roxanne B

Seven Habits of Highly Successful Part-time College Students

2009-08-17T08:46:00.000-07:00

I would like to share with you some tips that have helped me to succeed as a part-time college student. If you have something to add, feel free to leave a comment. Thanks!

1. Think Ahead
Carry schoolwork with you wherever you go. Do you have a chapter to read or flashcards to study? You never know when you will have extra time on your hands. You may get a few extra minutes to squeeze in some study times while waiting at the doctor’s office or for your children at a school function.

2. Keep Yourself Organized
One of the best ways to keep organized is to utilize your UC Student Planner. You can keep track of important college deadlines, family commitments, and personal time. Having everything in one planner helps you avoid missing an important deadline or making last-minute changes. Being informed will help you to make better decisions.

3. Expect the Unexpected
When you are a part-time college student balancing work, family, and schoolwork, things can happen when you least expect it. As soon as you get the syllabus for each class, write important deadlines in your student planner. If there are any conflicts with prior work or family situations, now is the time to let your professor know. Try to avoid working on a final paper the weekend before it is due. Instead, have it ready to be typed or reviewed so that if a family member suddenly becomes ill or the power goes out because of a storm you won’t be frantically trying to decide how to cope. Know how to contact your professor if you are going to be late to class or need to leave early. Professors will often work with you when it comes to unexpected work and/or family commitments.

4. Involve Others in your Goal
Bring your family or friends to campus events or just to have a slice of pizza on Marshall Street. Being on campus for something other than a class can help you to appreciate going to college. Many activities are free of charge and open to the public. Check SU’s online Calendar of Events to be informed about what is happening on or off campus. You might also want to share your college planner with your family. If they know you have an important paper due or an exam to study for, they will be more supportive of you having to spend a Saturday or Sunday at the library or studying for the test.

5. Become Familiar with your College Web Site
Visit your college web site daily. It is full of facts you can use. Information about parking, financial aid, and scholarships for part-time students can help you succeed. Social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter, Linked-In and our own UC Blog are a great way for students and colleges to communicate. These sites help you to keep current with the latest news about UC and help students share guidance and support. Also, don’t forget to visit other SU web sites to see what they have to offer that might help you succeed as a student.

6. Fill out Important Forms on Time
FASFA, class registration, and financial aid forms need to be filled out on time to keep your college degree plan on track. Know your deadlines and remember – the earlier the better. That way, if you have any questions or concerns, you will have time to find out the answers.

7. Remember to Enjoy the Moment
While attending college, it seems we always have to think about the future. What am I taking next semester? When is my paper due? It can be difficult to “live in the moment.” Take time to reflect on your day. Write your thoughts in a journal. Keep a list of the good things that happen in your life on a daily basis. This will help you to appreciate your efforts. Balancing school and life at any age is not easy, but if you remind yourself why you are doing it and appreciate how it is making you a better person, the path to a college degree can be a pleasant journey.

~Roxanne B

Advisors Help Us Decide

2009-08-12T11:33:00.000-07:00

Advisors are an important part of a college degree plan. Their job is not to tell us what we should do, but to give us advice on what our options are. Ultimately, when it comes to how and when we are going to finish our degree, the choice is ours. Advisors give us the information we need to help us make the decisions that affect our outcome.

As part-time students, we may be limited in the amount of credits we can take during a semester. At Syracuse University, anything above 11 credits qualifies us as full time, and this means a tuition increase. We part timers may be limited by how many classes we can take, but we are not limited in deciding which classes we should take.

When you schedule a meeting with an advisor, it is important cthat you come prepared to discuss your options. For example, when you achieve 84 credit hours, you reach senior status. By this time you have completed ¾ of your degree requirements. The classes you have already taken will limit what you can take going forward to complete your degree. Your decision can be limited to what is offered in the upcoming semesters, and you need to know which classes are required for your degree program. I have heard of situations where a student only needs one or two more classes to graduate, but they had to put off completing their degree until the class they needed became available. Some courses are offered every other year, once every two years, or only offered upon sufficient student interest. An advisor might not tell you this if you don’t ask.

When you begin an undergraduate or graduate degree program, you are given a degree requirement sheet that tells you what courses you have completed and how many more credits you need. Depending on your major, or if you have decided to enroll in a minor, this can affect what classes you need to complete your degree. I know from personal experience that majors and minors can change based on personal goals or new career choices. When this happens, it is important to understand how newly-required classes will fit into your degree program. Also, financial aid eligibility can change based on a decision to switch your major during the junior year of a bachelor’s degree. Don’t assume everything is fine unless you hear otherwise. Get all the facts before deciding to make changes.

When meeting with an advisor, don’t be afraid to ask questions. They are here to help you find the answers. Advisors don’t choose the path you will take to your goal of a college degree, but they can offer advice that will help you decide. Many of us like to be told what to do, but college teaches us we have a choice, and sometimes this can be difficult to get used to.
~Roxanne B

Mrs. Washington Goes to Smith

2009-08-11T06:17:00.000-07:00

This is the title of a movie about a middle-aged woman who goes back to college to finish her degree. It recently aired on The Hallmark Channel. I felt this 2009 movie did a good job showing how going back to school as an adult can change your life for the better. You will watch Alice Washington (Cybill Shepherd) go from a person with no true direction in her life to a confident woman, inside and out.

The movie is written by Susan Rice, who has written plays, scripted soap operas, and worked on movie roles with actors like Robert Redford, Clint Eastwood, and Sylvester Stallone. She wanted to develop a story line about the opportunities college can provide and the possibility of redeeming oneself in middle age. Rice is also a 1963 graduate of Smith College, located in Northampton, Massachusetts. She knew of a program at Smith which encourages women beyond traditional college age to study in their chosen field. As one of the nation’s largest liberal arts colleges for women, Smith College’s Ada Comstock Scholars program enables women of non-traditional college age to complete a bachelor of arts degree at a realistic pace, either part time or full time.

Rice created Alice as a character from Massachusetts with a son in college and a daughter in her 30s. Mrs. Washington quit college as a junior and now returns to become a high school English teacher. Like many adults returning to school, Mrs. Washington rediscovers her dormant qualities.

Watching Alice interact with the younger students is something many of us can relate to. At first she seems awkward and shy but as time goes on she gains confidence and realizes she is as much a part of college life as any of her “younger” classmates. Encouraging her along the way are other non-traditional students, along with her younger roommate Zoe Burkis (Corrie English).

Overall, I found the movie entertaining and realistic. It helps us to realize no matter what our age, college can be an experience that changes our lives forever. I would love to hear what you think.

~Roxanne

Checklist for Fall Semester

2009-08-07T12:30:00.001-07:00

August is here, so that means fall is just around the corner. Whether this is your first semester or your last, now is the time to begin thinking about back-to-school preparation. I would like to share with you some of the things I do that help me have a successful semester.

The first thing I do is make sure I have a calendar to carry with me wherever I go. Write in it your class schedule, important deadlines, and personal commitments. University College puts out a monthly student planner at the end of August which helps to show you how much or how little time you may have. Remember to share this calendar with your family so they can understand your goals and provide support.

Take time to explore both the UC and SU websites. The SU Bookstore link can inform you what textbooks you will need for classes. The My Slice link can direct you to your class schedule, which also informs you where your classes are held. It also links you to Parking and Transit Services so you can purchase a campus parking pass. Another link on My Slice is Blackboard @ SU. Blackboard is used for faculty members to communicate with students. Many times it will have the syllabus and other relevant information about a class, especially an online class.

Make sure your SU Mail account is working. There is a way to forward messages from your SU mail to another email box. Again, this service is used by faculty and staff to get important information to you. Some faculty members will only open email from syr.edu E-mail accounts and you wouldn’t want to risk a professor not getting an assignment or not being able to contact you about a classroom change.

Just like children who go back to school you will want to stock up on your school supplies. Three-ring binder notebooks are great way to organize class notes and assignments. Get yourself a backpack or some type of waterproof bag to carry textbooks and other essentials. If you will be coming to class after work, be sure to pack yourself a snack in case you don’t have time to stop at a campus dining facility for something to eat. There are many places in or around campus to grab a cup of coffee or a hot meal if you want one. Each building usually has some type of café or vending machine. Plus it’s a great way to meet other students.

Beginning a new semester can be stressful and exciting. Being prepared helps to remove some of the anxiety and being excited can help to motivate us to succeed. If you have any tips, please leave a comment and share with us how you prepare for a successful semester.

~Roxanne Bocyck

The Big Picture

2009-08-05T09:36:00.000-07:00

As a lifelong learner sometimes my mind feels like a jigsaw puzzle. Imagine a pile of puzzle pieces, each with a different shape and color, but somehow they need to fit together. Each represents something going on in my life: spouse, daughters, granddaughters, homework, classes, grocery shopping and endless other commitments. How am I going to find time to fit these pieces of my life together?

Going to school and putting myself first can be overwhelming. It takes away from the things I would normally do, such as cook a hearty dinner when I got home from work, or just relax. I still try to be who I was before college became a part of my life. Except now I take time to plan out a schedule, and my husband fixes dinner for himself. Sometimes, just when I think I have time to put it all together, there are interruptions. The phone rings, a family matter needs my attention, or the dog needs to go out. My piles of puzzle pieces just sit there, waiting for me to put them in order. It can take a lot of time and discipline to finish what we start. There are times when I want to put all my college pieces back into the box and put them away. I’ll get back to this part of my life when I have more time.

But, just like a real jigsaw puzzle, sometimes I need to stop focusing on all of those little pieces and look at the big picture instead. When putting a puzzle together, the first thing people do is separate the outside pieces from the inside ones. They begin to frame the picture by noticing a pattern, or colors that are similar, and sections start to come together. As part-time college students with full-time responsibilities, we need to prioritize and figure out what we need that will help frame our picture of getting a college degree.

There are always going to be pieces that just don’t seem to fit. But be patient and set them aside. Just like me, as you progress through your life puzzle, eventually all the pieces will come together.

~Roxanne

Lights, Camera, Action!

2009-08-01T07:29:00.001-07:00

Most of us have heard the saying “don’t burn your bridges” but do you respect what it says? When I was laid-off from my previous job last December I did. Although some people who lose employment lose their temper, I chose to shake hands and move on. This choice led to my previous employer contacting me a few weeks ago and asking, “Would you like to represent a school bus driver promoting safety on the school bus in our new video?”

For twelve years I was a school bus driver for a large school district in Central New York. It was a job that served me well when my children were still in school, and it was a flexible job that gave me time to pursue my college studies. Over the years I liked to write about my experiences and this led me to a new position as a writer for a school transportation safety and training company here in Syracuse. This company opened my eyes to the large world of school transportation. During the short time I worked for this organization I was fortunate to attend National school transportation conferences, write articles for various publications, and create new school transportation safety training materials. Because I was now working full-time I had to slow down on my degree progress, but at least I was doing something I enjoyed.

After only six-months at this company I was laid-off but I looked at it this way: now I could focus on my college studies and have my degree sooner! I was surprised when they contacted me recently and asked if I would be interested in playing the part of a school bus driver in one of their nationally distributed safety videos. I also felt honored and this past Friday was the photo shoot. As the children on the bus sat eagerly to play their parts and I talked with my former “workmates” I was glad I hadn’t burned this bridge. I might have missed out on this wonderful opportunity to participate in a video that will help school bus drivers with their important job of transporting children to and from school safely.

I can speak from experience about how college will open more doors that it closes. I know no matter what happens during my career path I can depend on my college resources to create opportunity. Right now I am doing an internship at University College and who knows where this decision will lead me. I do know I am enjoying what I am doing and that is because I have learned to always keep the door open and to be on the look-out for the next bridge to cross.

I hope you are enjoying your summer!

~Roxanne B

Fear of Failure

2009-07-29T08:26:00.001-07:00

These past few weeks I have been spending afternoons in a class that prepares students to take a standardized test they need in order to go onto graduate. I have no problem learning vocabulary words or reading a passage and locating the main ideas, but what I am having a difficult time with is the math. Although I took a statistics class and did fine it has been awhile since I have studied algebra and geometry; a long while. Whereas most of my classmates have only been out of high school a short while.

In this short six-week class I am taking the teacher doesn’t explain how to do the math problems as much as he just gives us examples of what is on the exam. Even if he does show a short-cut on how to solve a problem, if you don’t understand the regular way to find the answer, it can be frustrating. Although we have the opportunity to visit a web site and take a practice test, many times I find myself looking at the problem, not understanding what it is, and guessing. This can also be worrisome and to self-teach myself something from a textbook that I don’t understand the basics of frustrates me even more. All of this anxiety creates for me a fear of failure.

I am at a crossroad, this class ends next week and all it has done is reminded me of what I don’t know. So what should I do? Give up? Throw in the towel? Convince myself an undergraduate degree is enough? But then I think back to times in my life when I did give up because something was just too difficult or inconvenient. Looking back I think about what if I had persevered? Maybe I would have prevailed.

Challenging yourself isn’t always comfortable. We have to do things we wouldn’t normally do. I have been fretting over trying to come up with a solution to my math problem. Today I am going to explore some options; I am not going to let this setback prevent me from applying to graduate school. It’s fight or flight, and this time throwing up my arms and running is not an option!

~Roxanne B

SU in the Movies

2009-07-27T12:47:00.000-07:00

On Friday night July 24, University College sponsored Movie Night on the Quad. As is the norm this summer, rain prevailed and the movie was moved inside. No problem, everyone still had a great time! The movie chosen was The Express, a story about Syracuse University football player Ernie Davis, who from a young age knew he wanted to be somebody. I have heard of him but never realized the impact he made on college football until I watched this emotional film. There is much more to this story than football; it is about passion, desire, and adversity. It is a movie that will leave you stunned, and if you have walked the campus of SU, the scenes of Davis on campus during the late 1950s and early 1960s will create for you a sense of how much SU is a part of history. You will realize the impact certain alumni can have and you may have shared a classroom with a famous alum.

As a young black man growing up in the 1950s, Davis faced challenges in society that made me feel uncomfortable as an American. To watch someone being treated harshly because of the color of their skin made me question the values of this country during a time before I was born. How could this even happen? But it did.

Ernie Davis, who became known as the Elmira Express, due to his athletic abilities as a high school football player in Elmira, NY, was a legend in his own time. The storyline gives us the impression Davis didn’t grow up wanting to go to college as much as he grew up wanting to play football. His talent seemed natural, almost as if he was born to play the game.

Like Davis, I have always had a strong desire to be somebody. I wanted to become a writer. At first I tried to do this without going to college. I wrote a newsletter for my employer. I volunteered to write articles for several local newspapers. I helped edit my children’s school PTA news bulletin. I did everything I could to have the opportunity to write, just like Davis took every opportunity to play football. But like Davis, it wasn’t until I started going to college here at Syracuse University that my dreams became a reality.

Davis gave SU his all and in return SU gave him success. We all know that what you put into something is what you get back. Davis didn’t come to SU because his family could afford to send him here; he came because SU offered him something he desired. I didn’t attend SU through University College because I could afford it. I came because SU offered a degree program I could pursue while fulfilling my obligations as an employee, wife, and mother. If going to a college like SU was all about money, it wouldn’t be the University it is today. Syracuse University cares about education, the community, and the world.

There are many of us here at SU who are able to attend college because we have a passion about being the best that we can be, just like Ernie Davis.

~Roxanne B

Time is on Our Side

2009-07-24T12:35:00.000-07:00

Some people start their degree but never finish it. This can happen to a student at any age. Many times the reasons are similar: Financial burdens, family emergency, or people getting frustrated about having to choose between homework and other obligations. Whatever the reason, it happens.

Recently I attended the UC Start to Finish Reception held at Syracuse University’s Martin J. Whitman School of Management. This event was an opportunity for prospective students interested in part-time studies at SU to get information about how they could finish a degree they started or begin a new one. At this reception I had the privilege to speak with both types of people. I didn’t tell them what they wanted to hear, that going to college is easy. But I did encourage them to follow their dreams and realize anything is possible.

Going to college part time to obtain a degree may take longer but ironically we have an advantage over someone who goes full time. Time is on our side. We can attend classes when it is convenient for us. We get to be a college student longer and have more time to take advantage of campus resources such as career centers, student and professional organizations, or computer labs with the latest technologies.

I began attending college part time in 2005 and at times it seemed like a long, uphill battle. Something would happen to make me wonder if I should just give up. But then something would happen that encouraged me to keep going, such as an unexpected scholarship reward or a class project that changed my outlook on life for the better. Or maybe my daughter would tell me how proud she is of me. Now that I am in my senior year and realizing I have less than 25 credits until I complete my Bachelor’s degree, I am so glad I didn’t give up. I know it is still possible for life to throw me a curve ball but right now I am feeling good about my accomplishments.

So if you start to get discouraged about college because of the time involved know that you are not alone. Living a healthy lifestyle takes discipline and time for exercise. Raising a family can be challenging and it changes the way we spend our time. College is a commitment that tests what we value in life. It helps us to realize how valuable we are to ourselves and how time well spent is a lifetime investment that keeps giving.

~Roxanne

Getting Lucky

2009-07-22T14:02:00.000-07:00

As an adult going to school who remembers when the typewriter was used to create a word document and changing the channel meant turning a knob, I can appreciate how things can change over time.

As you pursue your college education and things start to change for you that never seemed possible, you can start to feel lucky. But in reality you know going back to school isn’t about luck, it is about discipline, hard work, and the willingness to learn new things. In fact, the more time you put into college studies, the luckier you get. All of the sudden you are eligible for a scholarship because of your high GPA. A professor recommends you for something that could take your career or personal goals to the next level. A classmate becomes a new friend who encourages you to keep going.

Since going to college I have received scholarships from generous people and organizations who appreciate the challenges of completing a college degree. I have been in a television commercial for UC and had my picture on the front cover of their fall catalog. I shared my poems with a professor who thought they were good enough to publish in a book he was working on. Did all of this happen because I am lucky? No, it happened because I challenged myself every semester to meet new people on campus. It happened because I went out of my comfort zone and asked questions. It all happened because I wanted to go to college and get my degree.

I hope going to college is bringing you as much luck as it has brought me.

~Roxanne Bocyck

Summer College: Hot Studies and Cool Rewards

2009-07-20T08:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who did not take summer classes, I hope you are enjoying your time off from homework and the anxiety of choosing between studying and a day at the beach. For those of us taking summertime classes, we are looking forward to our two-week summer during the middle of August. Summertime can be a difficult time to schedule homework, but if we get a little creative, it can be done.

This past weekend as my husband and I walked around The Syracuse Nationals, looking at hot rods and muscle cars, I couldn’t help but think about my schoolwork. In fact, as he talked with someone about our 1965 LeMans he is restoring, I stood there, with small flashcards in my hand, admiring a car and studying vocabulary words I need to know for the GRE test I will be taking this fall. Sometimes I wonder… is there something wrong with me?

One thing I learned while going to school is how creative we can get when it comes to mixing schoolwork with pleasure. Whether it’s being at our friends’ camp on Lake Ontario and getting up before dawn to do Spanish homework, because I know I won’t have time later, and telling people, “Yeah, I just wanted to watch the sun come up,” or when I review a science chapter with my two-year-old granddaughter as she points to a picture of a nuclear plant, making time for school can be a challenge. But it is the rewards from attending college that keeps us going.

What about you? In what ways have you combined studying with pleasure? Leave a comment, maybe you have a tip we could use.

~Roxanne

Social Networking and Twitter

2009-07-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

Since I have been blogging I have discovered new social networks that keep us in touch with others. One of them is Twitter. Many of you may have heard of Twitter but have never actually used it. I was one of those people. Now I enjoy learning how to “tweet” and apply this form of social media to my advantage.

Twitter is a kind of update about what is happening with someone or something. It is a free service that lets you keep in touch with people through the exchange of quick, frequent answers to one simple question: What are you doing? University College now belongs to Twitter. UC sends out reminders such as, “Fall classes begin Aug 31. New UC Student Orientation and Tour 9:30 a.m. – noon Aug 29.” Twitter can also be a way to keep in touch with classmates, “Been studying for my Soc 102 test. Also planning to attend lecture at Hendricks later this week.” Each Twitter message is limited to 140 characters. I find it to be a fun and simple communication tool.

Twitter can be done through the internet or your cell phone. Right now UC only Tweets on the internet. This means in order to read messages you need to go online. Messages are not sent directly to your e-mail, so there is no need to be concerned about an overload of e-mail messages. Twitter will, however, e-mail you when someone new wants to follow you, and it gives you the option of blocking people you don’t want to communicate with. When someone follows you they can read what you post on Twitter, but you won’t automatically get what they post, unless you decide to follow them.

I encourage you to try out Twitter for yourself. Go to the UC home page, click-on Social Networking and then the Twitter link. This will take you to the UC Twitter page, where you can read the latest updates. Click on the Join Today box and create an account. Take time to fill out the Profile information so people can know a little bit about you. Now when you go back to the UC Twitter page you can see who UC is following (that is who they get updates from) and you can click on followers and see their profile and read their tweets. This may lead you to their blog, personal web page, or to a link about a job or event that interests you. If you like what you find, click on their follow button, and their twitter updates will appear when you sign onto your Twitter account.

Since joining Twitter I have been following Dan, who works in the Career Center at SU and Gina, who will be going to Newhouse to pursue her Ph.D. Both of them have a blog and give great tips about career choices and the latest trends in their fields. I have also invited friends and family to follow me on Twitter by taking advantage of Twitter’s invite by e-mail button under Find People on my homepage.

As with any social network, it is easy to become overwhelmed with information. But just like anything new, the more you use it, the more you learn to ignore what doesn’t benefit you and the more comfortable it becomes. I think you will enjoy this new form of communication. If you have any questions about Twitter, leave a comment and I’ll be happy to help you become a tweeter on Twitter!

~Roxanne

A New Look

2009-07-13T13:28:00.000-07:00

When a person goes to college, everything changes. You become more aware of your strengths and weaknesses. The free time you once took for granted becomes more important. Your familiar college web site suddenly changes. Yes, the UC web site has changed, but the information you need to succeed is still there.
The best way to try out anything new is hands-on experience. Just like when you sit inside a new car, there are buttons and switches you may be hesitant to touch, but, how else will you know what they do? Same thing goes for the new UC web site: Click on the links and see what happens; scroll through the web pages and learn more about how University College can help you be a successful Syracuse University student. You will find one web page leads to another one you never knew existed. It is easy to feel like an explorer discovering new worlds.
We all know that the more you use something the more comfortable it becomes. After looking over the new UC web site, leave a comment and let us know what you think. Did you sign-up for Twitter or visit a new place you never knew existed? Did you look over a new degree program? Maybe you decided to tell a friend about an enrichment course. The possibilities just got bigger.
Change is good, and not being afraid of it is even better.
~Roxanne

What's Your Story?

2009-07-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

What’s Your Story?

If you are a visitor to the UC web site you may have noticed a link on the left side of the page titled UC Stories. Click on it to read profiles about some of Syracuse University’s part-time students. You’ll discover that you are not alone when facing the challenges of earning a college degree. You’ll also learn how the rewards can outweigh these feelings of adversity.
You can read about people like James Meade, who began attending college in spring 2006 as an HEOP student. The Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP) at University College is a special admission program for individuals whose financial and educational backgrounds prohibit them from regular admission to Syracuse University. HEOP assists students with financial aid and provides support services to guide students toward successful completion of their college degree.
Or John Cuyler, who graduated from Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management in spring 2009, where he earned a degree in Entrepreneurship and Emerging Enterprises (EEE). In the summer of 2008, Cuyler was part of EEE’s Entrepreneurial Empowerment Program in South Africa. John learned firsthand that the value of what you create is based on the effort you put in.
You can learn about remarkable people like Casey Cecile, whose perseverance in getting an education changed her life. She went from working three minimum-wage jobs to owning her own business. Before coming to Syracuse University she didn’t even have a high school diploma and had no idea how she would succeed as a college student. But her internal drive created opportunities and gave her success beyond her wildest dreams.
One story that is guaranteed to inspire you is the tale of Eyal Sherman, who has achieved amazing things despite the fact he cannot walk, talk, or even breathe on his own. Eyal is a quadriplegic who at age 28 graduated from Syracuse University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts. Eyal’s story of determination and artistic talent – he paints while gripping a paintbrush between his teeth – confirms the power of the human spirit.
I encourage you to visit the UC Stories web page and read more about those I have mentioned and the others whose stories will inspire you to keep going, no matter how challenging college can get. Then come back here and post your own story. I would love to learn more about your journey through the academic world.
~Roxanne

Decisions, Decisions . . .

2009-07-06T11:50:00.000-07:00

It seems there is always something for me to decide when it comes to attending college: What classes should I take next semester? How many classes? When do I plan to graduate? Let’s face it - college is something only I can decide to make happen, and sometimes that is reason enough to procrastinate.

I have found that the sheet your advisor fills out with you when you begin to plan your college career path is a good tool for tracking your progress. Look at how many classes you still have to take in order to graduate. Get out the main SU undergrad or graduate catalog and review your degree requirements, and compare that to the course catalog of the upcoming semester’s offerings. In the early stages, there are usually many blank spots on your form so there can be many choices. But as you begin to fill in your progress, the decision about what classes to take next is limited to what is offered the next semester.

If you haven’t yet registered for fall 2009 classes, now is a good time to get out the fall course schedule and your advising paper to check your progress. The longer you wait to register, the greater the risk that the class you want will be full. Some classes are offered every semester, while others may only be offered every other academic year. This information can be found in the Syracuse University Bulletin Course Catalog Table of Contents under Guide to Reading Course Descriptions.

Many good decisions are based on good planning. Ironically, when fall semester begins it is time to think about spring. The spring 2010 course schedule is usually available sometime around the end of October. Keep filling in those spaces and before you know it you will be graduating with a degree from SU!

~Roxanne

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

Summer is in full swing and I hope you are taking time to enjoy the holiday. If you are a new visitor to this Blog – welcome! It is my personal goal to get students commenting online about their college experiences.

No matter what age we are when we go to college, it can be a journey like no other. There is the balance of work, family, and making time to study. There is the importance of taking time to enjoy what we are accomplishing and remembering to thank those who are helping us to succeed. There is the fear of not knowing how it will all come together and the excitement of change.

I began my bachelor’s degree program in 2005, and I am hoping to graduate in May 2010. This is officially my senior year! But after that a new chapter begins, I am applying to graduate school. For me, college is like a craving that satisfies my appetite for learning.

I encourage you to leave a comment or just post your own thoughts on this Blog. Share with us how your journey began. Tell us about the mountains you have climbed and the turbulent waters that forced you to hold onto your dreams. Maybe you had to put your education on hold and now you’re finishing what you started. Whatever the reason you are here – welcome – and I wish you all the best on your college journey.

~Roxanne

From Worker Bee to College Graduate

2009-07-01T11:20:00.000-07:00

When I graduated from high school, I did not go to college. Instead, I became a “worker bee.” I figured anything I wanted to do to advance myself in the workplace would come from the sweat of my brow. For some people this can happen – but it didn’t happen to me. Experience doesn’t always lead to a new or better career – sometimes it takes the sweat from earning a college degree.

Going to college is not easy. It takes time away from family and friends. It means giving something up to gain a new opportunity. There are times when I wonder if it is all worth it and then there are times when I can’t wait for the new semester to begin.

Throughout my life I have tried to create a career for myself without a college degree. For 12 years I worked in a warehouse – packing orders, stacking cases, and driving a forklift. I came to work every day on time and I worked overtime when asked. I trained new employees and I volunteered at company events. I thought all of this would gain me a management position or at least a higher paying job in the warehouse, but instead I ended up leaving because what I wanted just wasn’t happening.

Unlike that warehouse, what I put into college comes back to me in rewarding ways. There are so many opportunities for me to advance at college. Completing classwork on time earns me three more credits. Putting extra time into my studies gives me a new perspective on what I am capable of. Volunteering to help a classmate with homework or for an event on campus earns me a new friend or contact, which may help me reach my career goals.

When I leave college with my degree, it will be with a proud smile. It will be with the satisfaction of knowing that what I wanted came to pass, because I made it happen.

~Roxanne

You are invited!

2009-06-29T12:02:00.000-07:00

Because of my internship here at UC I get to learn about upcoming events available to both current and prospective students. And I get to write about them!

During the month of July, there is Movie Night on the Quad and a reception called “Start to Finish.” Movie Night is a great opportunity for UC students and their families to take a break, while the reception is a way for prospective students to learn more about the resources available to help them start or finish their college degrees through part-time studies at SU. This year’s movie is The Express and it will be shown on Friday, July 24 at dusk.

Two summers ago, I attended Movie Night on the Quad with my husband, our teenage daughter and her friend. As we walked up the hill carrying our lawn chairs and blankets, I pointed out the buildings where I went to classes and the popular places students gather when school is in session. At the top to the stairs in front of the Hall of Languages I showed them the Lockerbie Memorial devoted to the 35 SU students who perished when a terrorist bomb exploded aboard Pan Am Flight 103 on December 21, 1988. We then made our way toward the Quad, where UC staff members were giving away frisbees and tickets for popcorn. It was a beautiful night. I never thought I would see my husband and daughter playing frisbee on the Quad, but I was glad to see they were enjoying the campus as much as I do.

I enjoy sharing my college experiences with people, so I will be attending the “Start to Finish” reception on Wednesday, July 22 beginning at 5:30 p.m. There is a lot to think about when deciding to begin – or complete – a college degree, and talking to people who have done it, or are doing it (like me), can help you find answers to your questions. It’s a great way to discover that it is possible – and personally rewarding – to accomplish something for yourself.

Hope to see you there!

~Roxanne

You're Never Too Old!

2009-06-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

I am amazed by some of the people I meet here at SU.

Recently on a sunny afternoon before my class I met a woman who is pursuing her degree part-time. Not only is she a mother of three grown children – she is a grandmother of four! How many grandmothers do you know who can talk about their homework with their grandchildren?

As we talked in the Pages Cafe at E.S. Bird Library, she told me how she came to live in Syracuse after graduating from high school in 1958. I smiled when she told me, “I get to be young again by going to school.” In the fall she will be taking three classes: math, writing, and philosophy. “As long as there is a breath in you there is the possibility to learn and grow,” she confided as we talked about our educational adventures as part-time students.

I felt inspired after talking with her. To be a senior citizen and feel as if you still have your whole life in front of you! To challenge yourself to learn more, and to have the ambition to actually make it happen! That is one of the wonderful qualities found in part-time students at any age.

~Roxanne

Summer Session Classes

2009-06-23T11:23:00.000-07:00

This is the first week of summer and the last week of my Summer Session I class. And that means 3 more credits! Another Summer Session class begins for me after the Fourth of July. In the meantime, it will feel good to have a much-needed break between the two sessions. Many graduate students will also be starting their semesters during the month of July. Summertime is a busy time at SU!

Sometimes it’s hard to believe I am in my senior year. I remember starting as a freshman in the spring of 2005, just wanting to get to my sophomore year. So much has happened since then. I feel proud of my accomplishments and I know the best is yet to come.

This past weekend at our annual Father’s Day Clambake, someone in my family asked me what I was going to do after I graduate. It took me a moment to answer them as I thought of all the possibilities. I just said, “You know, I don’t know yet, but whatever I do I know it will be great.”

“Wow,” they replied, “Good for you!”

And then I thought, that’s right! Good for me!

Experience + Education = Success

2009-06-17T12:05:00.000-07:00

As non-traditional students we bring something to the classroom when it comes to education: experience. A professor can mold and shape students by teaching, but as mature learners we have already been shaped by life. When the professor makes a statement we don’t agree with, we are often the first to raise our hands and offer our own perspective. This is not to say we know more than anyone else, but we do know more about how life can teach us things the classroom never will.

If success in life was all about experience we would all be winners. I don't know about any of you, but it wasn't until I was willing to learn that my experiences became educational. I had never gone to college before, but when I started attending classes something amazing began to happen. College changed my outlook on life. Education gave value to my experiences.

Some people do not like change. When you tell others that you are going back to school, they may ask why. After all, we may already have a job or they think we are too old, so why waste our time? As lifelong learners, college is something we do for ourselves. It helps us to see the world differently. Education gives us a new window into our experiences. It helps us realize what happens in life is a result of our choices, both past and present.

Choosing to finish a degree, or begin a new one, opens up a world of options. At times this can be overwhelming, but that is what advisors are for! We can never have too many experiences. We can never have too much education. I like feeling that I have a choice about my success. How about you?

~Roxanne

Welcome to the SU Neighborhood

2009-06-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

The Orange community turns red in June at Syracuse University’s Annual Strawberry Festival. The Quad comes alive with a farmer’s market, trade show featuring SU departments, and the smell of barbeque.

One of the best parts of a college community is the opportunity to volunteer. Today I volunteered as a timer for the Two-mile Fun Walk and Run which this year included 40 participants. The race begins at noon and when people registered they pinned a number on their shirts. Just before noon we instructed them to assemble on the sidewalk between Link Hall and the Shaffer Art Building. As I watched the runners and walkers warm-up with their stretches or by jogging in place I admired their stamina. When the starter shouted: On your mark – get set – go! I pushed the button on my stopwatch. The race was on!

Around fourteen minutes later the first runners appeared headed towards the finish line. When each competitor crossed the finish line several of us told the recorder we were paired up with the exact time a runner or walker crossed. People began to gather when they heard us cheering on the runners whose adrenaline now took their last burst of energy.

Afterwards I had strawberry shortcake and watched as event organizers gave away prizes from the steps of Hendricks Chapel. I walked the trade show and filled a bag with giveaways and information from booths representing different SU departments. It was a relaxing way to talk with the people who represented the diverse organizations.

As children played on the grass I wondered if one day they might choose to attend Syracuse University and become part of a community that welcomes everyone to have a good time.

See you next year!

~Roxanne

Giving Back

2009-06-10T12:25:00.000-07:00

One of my goals as a student here at Syracuse is to give back to the college that has given so much to me. As a student at University College, I have received scholarships that represent the generosity of alumni who understand the rewards and struggles of a college education.

I have always wanted to create a legacy. I dream one day of having a lifelong learner scholarship that helps non-traditional students achieve their goal of a college degree. I want generations of others to come to feel as I do: happy, fulfilled, proud, and confident. Does this mean I will have to wait until I make a lot of money before I can give back? I used to think so, but then I realized if I gave $100 and ten other people gave $100 that would equal $1000. And if I gave that same $100 and fifty students also gave $100 . . . now we're talking about $5000!

Currently there are 3709 UC students working toward associate, bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as students seeking credit certificates. If each of us gave as little as $20 we could create a scholarship fund of $74,180!

I know it’s easier to give when we have extra money. I know it’s easier to give when we are not unemployed or trying to raise a family or paying our bills. But I can speak from experience: when you receive a scholarship – somebody gave. Somebody you didn't even know cared enough to give you an opportunity . . . to keep going.

What an easy way to be part of a legacy that benefits us all.

There is Hope

2009-06-04T11:20:00.000-07:00

While reading comments people have posted to this blog, one word surfaces over and over: hope. People write they “hope” to finish their college degree. At one time I hoped to get started on a college degree. It wasn’t until I met with an advisor, filled out the papers, and wrote my personal essay that my hope turned into reality.

I would like to share a secret with you – hoping for something can mean making it happen. Right now as I get closer to the finish line of my bachelor’s degree, I could hope to get into graduate school. I have realized you can hope for something or you can turn hope into action. Right now I am researching what I need to do to get into graduate school. I am meeting with my UC advisor, emailing professors at the school I am interested in, and attending campus events like the recent Graduate Exploration Night. I have found one action can lead to another.

If I want to go to graduate school, I may need to take the GRE. “What’s a GRE?” I asked, and discovered that it is an entrance exam to graduate school. Another exam?! Did this fact make me give up? No way! I will need to make time to study for this exam. I spoke to my classmates and professors who have taken it and they have given me some great advice. I’m not going to hope I do well, I’ll make sure I do well. Bottom line: All of this action will get me into graduate school; just wishing it will happen won’t.

But I do hope all of you get your college degree.

~Roxanne

Networking--an important part of your college experience

2009-06-03T10:16:00.000-07:00

When you are a college student, an internship is your passport to gain admittance to somewhere you have never been before but have always wanted to go. The American Heritage Dictionary describes an intern as “an advanced student or recent graduate undergoing a supervised practical training.” I like to do internships. They are a way to try something new and gain valuable experience that I can put on my resume. I would like to share with you a great way to try an internship.

When I am on campus I always read the bulletin boards in the halls of the various schools at SU. Tacked on these cork walls are flyers inviting college students, faculty, and staff to try new things or invitations to different campus activities. At Syracuse University there are ten schools, each targeting a specialized career path. There are also ten libraries located on campus (including Moon Library at SUNY ESF), the Schine Student Center, Hendricks Chapel, and the Writing Center. In other words, there are a lot of bulletin boards to explore!

I enjoy writing and communicating with people. So when I first started college part-time in 2005 I would go and read the bulletin boards in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. One day I noticed a flyer inviting students to be part of Syracuse University's FM radio station, 88.3 WAER. It was a meeting about getting involved at the station as a reporter, live-broadcaster, underwriting, etc. Basically, it was for learning about the opportunities available in the field of broadcast radio. Next thing I knew, I was spending my weekend being a reporter for the radio station! I was in the studio hearing the DJs and news reporters live on the air. I was able to sit in on their broadcasts. I learned about the computer software they used. I attended events, interviewed people, and then came back to the station to write up a news story. The next morning I would hear my story being read on the radio!

I have gained much experience by taking time to read bulletin boards and join Syracuse University organizations that interest me. Networking is an important part of your college experience. Currently, I am doing an internship in the Marketing Department of University College. I am trying new things such as this blog, creating e-mail blasts and writing stories about part-time college students that will be shared with the community and on UC's web site. I enjoy being around the people at UC who have careers that help mature learners succeed in college.

So next time you're on campus, take some time and read those bulletin boards. You never know where you might end up!
~Roxanne

One Word: Value

2009-05-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

As an adult who began college after many years of working and raising a family, I appreciate the value of education. When I was employed without a college degree my opportunities for advancement seemed limited, despite my experience. If a job classified ad read bachelor’s degree or master’s degree required I felt I couldn’t apply – despite my years of experience. Or, when I would apply for a position where a college degree wasn’t listed, even if I made it to the interview stage, the applicant with experience and a degree would be chosen over me.

I knew what I had to do.

I am currently pursuing a B.A. with a major in writing. When I began this process in 2005 I wasn’t thinking about how long it might take me to finish – I just wanted to get started. Now it is 2009 and circumstances created by me going to college have enabled me to graduate in May 2010. But will my journey soon be over? Not really – another one seems to be taking shape.

I recently attended Graduate Exploration Night on campus. This was an opportunity to get information and talk to representatives about the graduate programs offered at Syracuse University. Although I have done some of my own research online, I always look for an opportunity to be around people who have the same interests I do, and I love to visit the different buildings on campus.

Education is an investment in you. It is something that never loses value. When I began my college journey I thought, “You can do this!” and then I realized, “I can do more!”

I would love to learn how college has influenced you to do more. Please post your thoughts about this or any other college experiences you have had as a mature learner at Syracuse University!

One Question: Holiday?

2009-05-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

As a non-traditional student taking summer classes I find it difficult to enjoy what is supposed to be a “holiday” weekend. While many people I know are packing their campers, planning a barbeque, or spending time at the beach, I am planning a seven-page paper. Not that I am complaining. In fact, I enjoy going to school just as much as spending time with friends and family.

Whether we decide to finish a degree or begin a new one, everything changes; especially our free time. Leisurely Sunday afternoons turn into a race against the clock. Friday evenings out with friends become “Not tonight, I’m busy.” And sleeping in is now, “Omigosh, what time is it?” Ironically, our lives become better and more fulfilled when we lose what was once considered free time.

So this Fourth of July, as I am celebrate the freedom of living in America, I’ll also be thankful for another type of independence; my own determination to get a college degree. The pride I feel in myself is magnified by the sound of fireworks telling me it’s time to celebrate!

~Roxanne

One word: Intense!

2009-05-21T15:13:00.000-07:00

Just like a waterslide at a theme park full of speed, twists and turns, MAYmester is not for everyone. But for those of us who like to experience new thrills, MAYmester can be the ride of a lifetime that leaves us wanting more.

A MAYmester class condenses a fourteen-week semester into one or two weeks. It is fast, exhilarating, and ends with a splash of relief. These classes are like a full-time job, so many students take time off from their work to “vacation” at MAYmester.

I just took my first MAYmester class, WRT 400/600: Writing In-Between: Creative Nonfiction, with professor Minnie Bruce Pratt. Would I do it again? Absolutely! What a great way to indulge yourself in something you know will satisfy a degree requirement. I experienced a whole new level of learning and interacted with people who value education. My class was full of students from different cultures and backgrounds, from all over the U.S. and the world. Some are pursuing their Ph.D.s, and I found it interesting to hear about their studies and research projects.

On the other hand, there were many times during this class that I felt overwhelmed and tired. To move forward with such force takes a lot out of you. I felt like a marathon runner, but I kept going despite my body telling me it was time to quit. I told myself I must get to the end - I must finish this race. I don't know which is worse - the pressure of homework or the pressure of my family saying, “Pay attention to me!”

Finally, what vacation wouldn't be complete without taking time to reflect on your surroundings? MAYmester is a nice way to enjoy the campus; a chance to visit the libraries, explore the academic buildings, or sit on a bench overlooking the quad and reflect on where you are, and what you are accomplishing.

If you've taken a MAYmester “vacation” I would love to hear about your experiences!

~Roxanne

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Unbelievable!

2009-05-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

One word: unbelievable!

I am a non-traditional college student because I went to work, raised a family, and then went to college. But like any college student, as I progressed in my degree, I began to question my path and make decisions based on where I wanted to go. But I also realized I was not alone.
During my evening, weekend, and online classes I have had the privilege of getting to know people who, like me, have different reasons for attending college: changing from a job to a career, a passion to learn, and the goal to have that piece of paper we can hold in our hands and proudly say, “Yes! I did it!” Even though my own graduation day was in the distant future, I decided to support these new friends and imagine myself walking the stage to accept my diploma, by attending the annual Commencement for University College.

It was here I would meet my classmates and their proud families. I would witness my Professors being recognized for their service to part-time students with the Excellence in Teaching Award. I gained encouragement from UC Dean Bea González as she spoke about what it means to be a UC student. I became inspired by the Keynote Speaker and how they recognized that it is not easy to balance college, family, and life as an adult learner who at times questions, “Why work this hard”? But most of all I like to hear the student speaker; the one who has lived and breathed what I was going through. The one who reassures us we have done the right thing, we have become someone to be proud of, an inspiration to our families.

It was also at this Convocation that I learned of a benchmark I could set for myself. As I sat in the audience looking at the program with the names of my classmates under each school, I noticed written under The College of Arts & Sciences the degree of Associate in Arts. I never knew that Syracuse University offered an Associate Degree. I decided to speak with my advisor at the reception afterwards about including this landmark in my journey.

Now it is 2009, and instead of me sitting in the audience imagining what it is like to walk the stage, I actually did it! As I stood up there waiting for Rosemary Kelly to say my name, I looked out into the audience, smiling at my family. They were already waving, smiling, and ready to take my picture as I accepted congratulations from University College Dean Bea González, Vice Chancellor and Provost Eric F. Spina, and Nancy Cantor, Chancellor and President of Syracuse University. This was the same family who sometimes wondered why I was doing this. The same family who rolled their eyes if I had to leave a family gathering early because I had a test to study for; the same family who supported me when I thought I might give up.

I continue to work towards my Bachelor of Arts Degree in writing. On Mother’s Day my husband and I went to the Syracuse University Commencement at the Carrier Dome to hear Vice-President Joe Biden speak. As I observed the proud students walking to their seats on the floor and waving to the audience, I imagined myself among these graduates who are eager to take the next step in their voyage.

We all have many stories to tell. I hope you will visit this blog often and share with us your journey! ~ Roxanne B.