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How to Maximize Your 529 College Savings Account with Non-Traditional Education

If you’re considering pursuing a college degree, you’re likely aware of the rising costs of higher education. Fortunately, there’s a versatile tool that can help you fund your college journey, even when taking non-traditional routes to complete general eds and prerequisite courses online.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to utilize your 529 plan for non-traditional education, such as completing college gen eds and prerequisite courses to earn college credits toward an accredited degree, the benefits, and the advantages.

What is a 529 Plan (College Savings Account)?

A 529 plan is a college savings account tax-advantaged investment program to help individuals and families save for future education expenses. These accounts are named after Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code, and they come in two main types: prepaid tuition plans and education savings plans. Most U.S. states offer at least one type of 529 plan.

How to Use a 529 Plan for Non-Traditional Education?

Research Eligible Expenses: When it comes to non-traditional education, a 529 plan can be a valuable asset. Generally, you can use the funds for tuition, fees, books, and supplies required for enrollment. Importantly, recent changes to the law now allow you to use your 529 plan for specific online courses, making it a viable option for those pursuing a degree through online education platforms.

Confirm Accreditation or Course Recommendation: Before enrolling in online courses, ensure that the degree-granting institution is accredited or that the online educator’s courses are American Council on Education® (ACE) recommended. This type of accreditation or recommendation is critical to ensuring the award of college credit.

Understand Distribution Rules: To tap into your 529 savings, you’ll need to request a distribution. Be aware that you can only withdraw funds to cover the cost of qualified educational expenses, including online courses for general education and prerequisite credits.

Keep Detailed Records: Accurate records of your educational expenses are essential when using a 529 plan. This includes invoices, receipts, and documentation demonstrating how the funds were used. These records will be vital when requesting a distribution and reporting it to the IRS.

What are the Advantages of Using a 529 Plan for Non-Traditional Education?

Tax Advantages: One of the primary benefits of a 529 plan is its tax advantages. Contributions to the account are made with after-tax dollars, but the earnings in the account grow tax-free. When you withdraw the money for qualified educational expenses, those withdrawals are also tax-free. This triple tax advantage can significantly reduce the overall cost of your education.

Flexibility: Using a 529 plan for non-traditional education provides you with flexibility. You can choose from various eligible institutions and programs, including online courses. This versatility allows you to tailor your educational path to your needs and goals.

Contributions from Family and Friends: Another advantage of 529 plans is that family members and friends can fund them. This means that grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others can contribute to your education fund, helping you achieve your educational goals faster.

No Age Limit: Unlike other education savings options, 529 plans have no age limit for beneficiaries. This means that even if you’re an adult returning to school or pursuing education later in life, you can still benefit from a 529 plan.

What are the Benefits of Completing College Gen Eds and Prerequisite Courses Online Using a 529 College Savings Plan?

Convenience: Online education offers unparalleled convenience and flexibility. You can access course materials and lectures from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing you to balance your education with work, family, and other commitments.

Cost-Efficiency: Online courses often come at a lower cost than their traditional counterparts. You can save on commuting, housing, and meal expenses. Additionally, many online course materials are available digitally, reducing the need for expensive textbooks.

Self-Paced and Accelerated Learning: Online courses often allow for self-paced learning, giving you the flexibility to complete coursework on your schedule. This can be particularly advantageous if you work or have other time constraints.

Diverse Course Offerings: The world of online education is vast, offering a wide range of courses and programs. This diversity allows you to find classes that align with your interests and career goals.

What’s Next?

A 529 college savings account is a powerful tool for funding your non-traditional education journey, including completing general education and prerequisite courses online. By understanding the rules, benefits, and advantages of using a 529 plan, you can make informed decisions about your education financing.

As you earn college credits toward an accredited degree, remember to research eligible expenses, verify accreditation, and maintain detailed records. Take advantage of the tax benefits, flexibility, and potential contributions from family and friends that 529 plans offer.

Additionally, consider the benefits of online education, such as convenience, cost-efficiency, self-paced learning, and diverse course offerings. These advantages, combined with the financial support of your 529 plan, can pave the way for a successful college experience.

By utilizing your 529 plan wisely and embracing online education opportunities, you can achieve your educational aspirations while minimizing the financial burden. So, don’t let traditional barriers deter you—embrace the flexibility and financial advantages of a 529 plan to make your college dreams a reality.

Written By: Justin Hart

Can Online Education Be The Solution To Addressing The Nursing Shortage?

The nursing shortage is a significant challenge facing the healthcare industry today. According to the National Library of Medicine, this problem has complex roots, including a need for more potential educators, high turnover rates, and an uneven distribution of nurses.

However, the issue is not new and has been a concern for years. The demand for registered nurses has consistently outpaced the supply, as reported by U.S. News, and this gap has only grown wider due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects a staggering 203,200 job openings for registered nurses through 2031. We urgently need a solution to train and prepare new nurses to meet this demand.

The Role of Online Education

One promising solution to address the nursing shortage is using an online education platform that is more innovative than traditional solutions. This innovative approach offers an accelerated and accredited nursing degree program that provides flexibility and addresses the issues of cost and time constraints.

Revolutionizing Nursing Education

Online EdTech companies are revolutionizing how we approach college education. Their cutting-edge platform allows students to start courses at their convenience and complete them in weeks, all at a fraction of the cost compared to the national average tuition fees.

Overcoming Traditional Barriers

Traditional four-year bachelor’s degree programs at colleges or universities often present formidable obstacles to aspiring registered nurses. Many students face rejection from nursing programs, prolonged on-campus commitments, high tuition fees, inflexible schedules, curriculum challenges, and a sense of isolation. The right online education program overcomes these barriers.

Affordable and Accessible Education

One of the primary obstacles to becoming a registered nurse is the high cost of education. However, the more innovative online education programs and platforms offer 100% online courses, allowing students to maintain a flexible lifestyle while reducing costs to half the national tuition average. Moreover, these courses are taught by experienced Master’s and PhD instructors, ensuring the quality of education.

Endorsement and Accreditation

The recommendation of its courses, such as the American Council on Education, sets the right online education program apart. Furthermore, they facilitate the transfer of students to partner universities, which then confer accredited university degrees upon qualifying students. The right online program will also work with several university partners, giving students various options to earn a respected and accredited nursing degree.

Bridging the Gender Gap

According to Forbes, women in nursing roles often earn higher salaries than their male counterparts. For example, women make 3% more than men as vocational nurses. Therefore, online education programs that use a more advanced platform particularly benefit young people and women.

The Solution Summarized

The shortage of nurses is a long-standing challenge exacerbated by various factors. The solution is not just an online nursing education program but an online nursing education program that uses an innovative platform that differentiates itself from others in accessibility, affordability, and flexibility. By embracing such a solution, we can work towards resolving this critical issue and ensuring a steady supply of qualified nurses in the healthcare industry.

Written By: Justin Hart

The Power of Online Learning: The Benefits of Instructor-led Online Courses

Online education continues to create new opportunities for high school students about to graduate to get a head start on earning college credits, college students seeking to fulfill prerequisite and general education requirements, and working adults juggling their careers and education. Online instructor-led classes are a popular choice among these groups, thanks to all the advantages and because they can significantly enhance academic success and the various benefits they hold.

Why Choose Instructor-led Online Classes?

The online education model, particularly instructor-led classes, offers numerous benefits catering to diverse learners. These classes break down geographical barriers, allowing you to earn college credit from the comfort of your home or any location you choose.

When an instructor leads online classes, it offers a structured learning environment, much like traditional classroom settings. The instructor guides students through the course, clarifying doubts, and facilitating class discussions, creating an interactive and engaging educational experience.

Furthermore, online courses can be a practical solution if you’re a high school student contemplating earning college credits before graduation. Similarly, online courses offer a flexible and convenient option for college students needing to fulfill certain prerequisites or general education requirements or working adults aiming to finish a degree.

Top 3 Advantages of Online Instructor-led Classes

Flexibility and Convenience

Balancing school, work, and personal life can be challenging. The flexibility offered by online courses is their most significant advantage. They allow you to learn at your own pace, at a time that suits your schedule. You can catch a lecture during your lunch break, complete an assignment late at night, or engage in discussion forums over the weekend. This flexibility is perfect for working adults, college students with busy schedules, and high school students looking to get a head start on college credits.

Wide Range of Course Selections

Online education often offers a broader range of courses than traditional on-campus programs. The possibilities are endless, whether you’re interested in fulfilling general education requirements, exploring electives outside your major, or seeking specialized courses. As a bonus, these courses can often be transferred for credit at your current institution, making it easier to meet graduation requirements.

Cost-Effective Learning

Online learning often proves to be a cost-effective alternative to traditional education. Not only are online courses typically less expensive, but they also cut down on commuting and housing costs. Furthermore, digital resources can often replace costly textbooks, further saving on expenses.

How Online Classes Improve Student Success

Online instructor-led classes have been shown to improve student success in several ways. First, they offer a more personalized learning experience. Instructors can provide immediate feedback through digital platforms, and students can review course materials as often as needed. This direct, ongoing feedback loop enhances understanding and retention.

Second, online learning often requires greater self-discipline and time management skills. Students must take initiative in online learning, enhancing skills like organization, critical thinking, and problem-solving. These skills are not only beneficial academically but are also highly valued in the workplace.

Lastly, online courses facilitate global classroom experiences. You can engage with classmates from different cultures and backgrounds, promoting diversity and fostering a broader worldview. Exposure to different perspectives can lead to richer class discussions and an enhanced understanding of the course material.

The continual rise in the popularity of online learning, specifically instructor-led online courses, is transforming the education landscape. Its advantages—flexibility, broad course selection, cost-effectiveness, and potential for increased student success—make it an attractive option for high school students, college students, and working adults.

Written By: Justin Hart

Busting The Top 10 Myths About Taking Online Courses for College Credit and Earning a Degree Online

Today’s online education has completely revolutionized how people pursue earning college credits and getting a college degree. With the rise of online college courses, students can learn at their own pace, from the comfort of their homes or anywhere with an internet connection. Despite its growing popularity, some things surrounding online education still need to be clarified. Let’s debunk the top 10 myths about taking online college courses for college credit and earning a degree online.

Myth #1: Online degrees are less credible than traditional degrees.

Fact: Accredited online degree programs hold the same value as their traditional counterparts. Many reputable universities offer online programs that meet the same rigorous academic standards. Employers now recognize the legitimacy and quality of online degrees, making them equally valuable for career advancement.

Myth #2: Online courses lack interaction and engagement.

Fact: Online courses often incorporate various interactive elements to promote engagement. Discussion boards, video conferences, and collaborative projects facilitate meaningful interactions with professors and fellow students. Additionally, technological advancements enable real-time feedback and personalized attention, ensuring a rich learning experience.

Myth #3: Online degrees are easier to obtain than traditional degrees.

Fact: Online courses are designed to be just as challenging and academically rigorous as traditional courses. The curriculum, assignments, and exams are carefully structured to meet the same educational standards. The flexibility of online learning may require self-discipline and time management skills, but the difficulty level remains the same as with traditional programs.

Myth#4: Employers do not value online degrees.

Fact: Employers today value skills, knowledge, and experience over the format in which they were acquired. Many employers recognize that online degree holders possess valuable qualities such as self-motivation, time management, and tech-savviness. As long as the online program is accredited, employers will likely view the degree the same way as obtaining a degree the traditional way from an on-campus college or university.

Myth #5: Online courses need more practical experience.

Fact: Online programs have adapted to include practical components through virtual simulations, internships, and field experiences. Students can gain hands-on skills and expertise in their chosen fields by participating in online labs, completing virtual projects, or engaging with professionals in their local communities.

Myth #6: Online degrees are not suitable for socially inclined individuals.

Fact: Contrary to popular belief, online learning can foster a strong sense of community. Virtual classrooms provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and discussion. Online students often connect through social media groups, online forums, and virtual study groups, creating a supportive network of like-minded individuals.

Myth #7: Online degrees are only available in limited fields.

Fact: The amount of online degree programs continues to expand rapidly. Today, you can pursue online degrees in various fields, including business, healthcare, technology, humanities, esports, game development, homeland security, criminal justice, and marketing, and the list continues. Whether you want to pursue a bachelor’s, master’s, or even a doctoral degree, online programs are available to suit your interests and career goals.

Myth #8: Online education lacks personalized attention from instructors.

Fact: Online instructors are committed to providing personalized attention to their students. Students can interact with professors individually through email, discussion boards, and virtual office hours and seek guidance when needed. Some online courses also offer one-on-one mentoring, ensuring a supportive learning environment.

Myth #9: Online degrees are not recognized by professional organizations.

Fact: Professional organizations recognize and accept online degrees, career skills certificates, and continued education completed online. These organizations understand the changing landscape of education and the value of online education and degrees. Always research and ensure that your chosen online program is recognized by the relevant professional associations in your field of interest.

Myth #10: Online learning is lonely and isolating.

Fact: While online learning requires self-motivation and independence, it doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Online students can engage in virtual study groups, participate in online forums, and attend virtual events and conferences related to their field. Building connections with peers and instructors can help combat any feelings of isolation.

As online education continues its rapid growth, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, it is essential to dispel the myths surrounding earning college credits online and getting an online college degree. Taking 100% online courses for college credit and earning a degree online can provide a flexible and rewarding educational experience. The credibility of online degrees, the level of engagement, and the practical experiences available are now on par with traditional education. By breaking down these misconceptions, aspiring learners are encouraged to embrace the possibilities offered by online education and take charge of their academic journey.

Written By: Justin Hart

5 Key Facts Why Earning A College Degree Is Important

The importance of earning a college degree cannot be overstated. In today’s competitive job market, higher education opens doors to a broader range of career opportunities and offers many other benefits.

Here are five key facts highlighting why earning a college degree is important:

Higher Earning Potential: One of the most significant advantages of obtaining a college degree is the potential for higher earnings. Numerous studies have consistently shown that individuals with higher levels of education tend to earn more over their lifetime compared to those with only a high school diploma. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, on average, individuals with an associate degree earn about $8,000 more per year than those with a high school diploma, while individuals with a bachelor’s degree earn approximately $27,000 more annually. These earnings differentials can add up significantly, making a college degree a worthwhile investment.
Increased Employment: In today’s competitive job market, having a college degree significantly increases your chances of securing employment. Many employers view a degree as a minimum requirement for job applicants, especially for positions that require specialized knowledge or skills. With a college degree, you demonstrate to potential employers that you possess the necessary commitment, discipline, and intellectual capacity to succeed professionally. Furthermore, some industries and professions have specific educational requirements; with a degree, you may find yourself more in career options.
Job Stability: Another compelling reason to earn a college degree is the increased job stability it can provide. While no educational credential can guarantee a job for life, statistics consistently show that individuals with higher levels of education experience lower unemployment rates and are less likely to be affected by economic downturns. During times of recession, individuals with a college degree are generally more likely to retain their jobs or find new employment than those without a degree. This job stability can provide security and peace of mind in an uncertain job market.
Economic and Financial Stability: Earning a college degree benefits individuals and improves financial stability. Research has shown that societies with higher levels of educational attainment tend to experience more substantial economic growth and development. Individuals with higher education levels often have the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to innovation, productivity, and economic progress. Moreover, the higher income levels of college graduates result in increased tax revenues for governments, which can be invested in public services, infrastructure, and social programs, benefiting society.
Personal Growth and Improved Self-esteem: Beyond the tangible benefits, earning a college degree can foster personal growth and improve self-esteem. College provides an environment that encourages critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and personal development. Through exposure to diverse perspectives, engaging coursework, and extracurricular activities, students can broaden their horizons, expand their knowledge base, and develop valuable communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. These experiences enhance personal growth and instill a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence that can positively impact various aspects of life.

Earning a college degree is very important in today’s society. It leads to higher earning potential and increases employment opportunities, job stability, and economic stability. Additionally, obtaining a degree promotes personal growth and improved self-esteem. By recognizing the numerous advantages of college education, individuals can make informed decisions about their future and position themselves for success in a rapidly evolving world.

Written By: Justin Hart

How Online College Prerequisites Help Students Avoid Debt, Save Money, and Save Time

The cost of a college education is rising yearly, and many students are graduating with significant debt. However, there are ways to avoid student debt, and one of them is by taking online college courses. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

Online College Courses to Avoid Student Debt

Taking online college courses can help students avoid student debt in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional ones, saving students thousands of dollars on tuition and fees. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education. Second, online courses allow students to work while they study, which can help them pay for their education without taking out loans. Students can take online courses part-time or full-time, depending on their schedule and needs, which can help them balance their work and education.

Finally, online courses can help students graduate faster, reducing the cost of education. By taking online courses during the summer or winter breaks, students can earn credits towards their degree and complete their education earlier, saving them time and money.

Taking College Prerequisites Online Saves You Time and Money

College prerequisites are courses students must complete before taking higher-level courses that are also part of their degree program. These courses are typically lower-level courses in Math, English, Science, and other subjects, which are required for most majors. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education.

Save Time

Taking college prerequisites online can save students time in several ways. First, online courses are often more flexible than traditional ones, allowing students to study at their own pace and schedule. Students can complete coursework and assignments when convenient for them, which can save them time and help them balance their other commitments. Second, online courses often have shorter or more flexible course schedules, allowing students to complete the course faster. Some online courses are accelerated, meaning they are completed in a shorter period, such as six or eight weeks, instead of a traditional 16-week semester. This can allow students to complete the course faster and move on to finish their degree sooner.

Save Money

Taking college prerequisites online can also save students money in several ways. First, online courses are often less expensive than traditional courses, which can reduce the cost of education. Many online courses also offer financial aid, scholarships, and grants, which can further reduce the cost of education.

Second, online courses can reduce the cost of textbooks and materials. Many online courses use e-books, often less expensive than traditional textbooks. Some online classes also provide course materials online, which can reduce the cost of printing and shipping materials.

Get a Head Start on Your College Education

Taking college prerequisites online can also help students get a head start on their college education. By completing college prerequisites online, students can knock out classes and complete their degrees faster. This can help students save time and money and enter the workforce sooner. In addition, taking college prerequisites online can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their careers. Students can build a foundation for success by completing prerequisites online and gaining the confidence and skills needed to succeed in their careers.

Online college courses help students avoid debt and save time and money. By taking college prerequisites online, students can save time and money and get a head start on their college education. Online courses are flexible, less expensive, and offer financial aid and scholarships, which can reduce the cost of education. In addition, online courses can help students develop the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their education and career.

Written by: Justin Hart

How to Balance Family, Work, and School While Taking Online College Courses

Balancing family, work, and school can be challenging, especially when taking college courses online. Juggling multiple responsibilities can often lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. However, it is possible to balance these three aspects of life with a bit of planning and effort.

Here are seven tips on balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online:

Create a Schedule and Stick To It

One of the most effective ways to balance family, work, and school is to create and stick to a schedule. List all your commitments, including work hours, class schedules, family obligations, and study time. Create a daily or weekly schedule that allows you to manage your time efficiently. You can use a planner or a digital calendar to keep track of your plan and set reminders for important deadlines and appointments.

Prioritize Your Tasks

When you have a lot of responsibilities, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. To avoid this, you need to prioritize your tasks. Start by identifying the most important tasks that must be done each day, such as attending classes, completing assignments, and spending time with your family. Then, prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. This will help you focus on the tasks that require immediate attention and avoid wasting time on less important tasks.

Set Realistic Goals

When you are juggling family, work, and school, it is essential to set realistic goals. Be honest about how much time you can dedicate to each task and set achievable goals. For example, if you have a full-time job and a family to care for, it may be unrealistic to aim for straight A’s in all your classes. Instead, focus on doing your best and balancing your academic and personal commitments.

Communicate With Your Family and Employer

When you are balancing family, work, and school, it is crucial to communicate with your family and employer. Tell your family about your academic commitments and the time you need to study. Make sure they understand the importance of your education and how it will benefit your family in the long run. Similarly, inform your employer about your class schedule and any changes in your work hours. This will help them plan your workload accordingly and ensure that you have enough time to complete your assignments and attend classes.

Take Advantage of Online Resources

You can access a wealth of online resources when you are taking college courses online. Take advantage of these resources to help you manage your time and stay organized. For example, you can use online tools such as Google Drive or Dropbox to store your class notes, assignments, and other important documents. You can also use productivity apps such as Trello or Asana to keep track of your tasks and deadlines.

Stay Motivated

When juggling multiple responsibilities, it can be easy to lose motivation. To stay motivated, remind yourself why you pursued a college degree. Think about the benefits of education to your career and personal life. You can also join online study groups or forums to connect with other students and stay motivated.

Take Breaks and Practice Self-care

Finally, taking breaks and practicing self-care when balancing family, work, and school is essential. Taking regular breaks will help you recharge your batteries and stay focused. It is also crucial to practice self-care, such as getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly. Taking care of yourself will make you better equipped to handle the challenges of balancing multiple responsibilities.

By following these seven tips, balancing family, work, and school while taking college courses online is very possible.

Written By: Justin Hart

The Advantages of Taking General Education Courses Online

Online college General Education courses offer several advantages for students. One of the main benefits is flexibility. Online courses allow students to attend class at their convenience rather than having to be in a physical classroom at a specific time. This is particularly beneficial for students who work or have other obligations that make it difficult to attend traditional in-person classes. Online courses also allow students to take classes from anywhere, so they can continue their education even if they move or travel.

Another advantage of online General Education courses is the ability to learn at your own pace. In traditional in-person classes, students may feel pressure to keep up with the pace of the class, which can be difficult for some students. With online courses, students can take the time they need to fully understand the material and complete assignments at their own pace. This can be especially beneficial for students with learning disabilities or other special needs.

Online college General Education courses offer a more comprehensive range of courses. Online classes are not limited by the number of students who can physically fit in a classroom, and they can be offered to a more significant number of students. This means that students have a more comprehensive range of courses to choose from and are more likely to find a class that fits their interests and career goals.

Online General Education courses also offer a cost-effective option for students. Online courses are generally less expensive than traditional in-person courses, as they do not require the same infrastructure or resources. In addition, students can save money on transportation and other expenses associated with attending in-person classes.

Online General Education courses also offer a variety of tools and resources to support student learning. For example, many online courses use interactive discussion boards, virtual collaboration tools, and online quizzes to engage students and help them learn. Online courses also often provide access to a wide range of digital resources, such as videos, podcasts, and articles that can be used to supplement the course material.

Finally, online General Education courses can help students develop valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. Online courses require students to be self-motivated, organized, and able to manage their time effectively. They also need students to be able to communicate effectively and collaborate with others in a virtual environment. These skills are highly valued by employers and can be beneficial for students in any field.

In conclusion, online college General Education courses offer a number of advantages for students, including flexibility, the ability to learn at your own pace, a more comprehensive range of course options, cost-effectiveness, access to tools and resources to support student learning, and the development of valuable skills that are in demand in the digital age. These advantages make online General Education courses an attractive option for students looking to further their education while balancing other responsibilities.

Written By: Justin Hart

How to Choose the Best College Major

Choosing a college major can be complicated, as it will likely impact and shape your career and future opportunities. To make this even more challenging, these decisions are made while the individual is still very young with little if any, real-world experience to base that decision. As a very young man, I knew I was not prepared to make a decision as impactful as that, so I elected to enlist in the military like many others. I completed my enlistment, returned home, and started taking general education classes, still waiting for a clear direction on what I wanted to do for the next 40 years.

I landed on engineering, and while that is undoubtedly a great option, I have made multiple career changes since my days in the college classroom. Here are a few tips that may help you make the best choice for you:

Consider your interests and passions. What subjects do you enjoy studying? What hobbies or activities do you enjoy doing? These are often good indicators of what you may be interested in pursuing as a career.
Research career prospects, job outlooks, and earning potential for various majors. This will give you an idea of career opportunities after graduation.
Talk to people in the field if possible. Ask them about their experiences and what they enjoy about their job. This will give you valuable insights regarding what it’s like to work in the field.
Take advantage of your school’s resources and those provided by many colleges. Many schools have career days sponsored by professionals and college staff. This may help you make an informed decision.
Keep your options open; you don’t have to choose a major immediately. It’s not uncommon for a student to explore different subjects before committing to a major.
Consider your long-term goal and what you want to achieve in your career and personal life. This may help you land a major that aligns with your goals.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a major you’re passionate about that will lead to a career you enjoy. Remember, your major doesn’t have to dictate your entire career. Switching careers or even going back to school to pursue a different field is not uncommon. While choosing a major that aligns with your interests and goals, it is also essential to remain open to new opportunities and changes throughout your life.

Distance Learning Systems provide many options for those contemplating a career change or starting out. With over 35 major universities to choose from and over 450 online and campus-based degree programs, this is a great place to start. You can quickly and affordably complete up to 2 years of an accredited bachelor’s degree 100% online.

Written By: Dave Christy

You Can’t Do That

No, I’m not referring to the B side of the Beatles album “Can’t Buy Me Love.” Many of you may have minimal knowledge of the Beatles, let alone their music. For the record, I’m in the group that lived through the British Invasion in the mid-1960s; no, that was not a military operation. I’m referring to a far too common phrase that many of us have heard in our lifetime, and worse yet, may have said to a friend or even our children. This is a psychological seed that should never be planted. While it’s true that there certainly are things we should not do in life, let’s focus for a moment on those fantastic things that we could do.

Let me share an example of what I mean. My youngest was born profoundly deaf, so we decided to allow her to attend a residential school out of state that was very progressive. Because most of the children, including my own, had cochlear implants, this school helped these children perfect (as best they could) their listening and speaking skills. The results were astounding. As we were doing our exit interview near the end of the elementary school years, we met with the school psychologist, and I’ll never forget what she told our daughter and us. She said we should have realistic expectations regarding what to expect from our child as she grows up. The example she gave was in the field of nursing. She said, “If your daughter decides she wants to be a nurse, she will most likely become an LPN rather than an RN.”

When I left that meeting and that school, I was somewhat bewildered. For five years, my daughter was taught that she could do anything, and we also believed that. We had never told our child that there was anything she could not do. Time passed, and we forgot that advice. High school ended, then on to her bachelor’s degree, followed by her master’s, and today, she is completing her thesis for her EdD at a major university. She holds a very responsible position in state government, is married, and is a homeowner. Contrary to conventional wisdom, she learned, and we supported the belief that we can accomplish almost anything of value we set our minds to and are willing to work for.

Unfortunately, some children have minimal confidence and belief in their abilities. It’s not unusual for a child to say, “I can’t do it!” Physical limitations may exist, but we should be our kiddo’s biggest cheerleaders. When they say this, we might try encouraging them by offering one of the following responses:

“I know this is hard for you.” Above all, listen to your children, and let them open up and discuss the issue.
“Have I ever told you about…” Please talk about your struggles or those of others close to them and encourage them to do their best. I know my daughter has a story to tell.
“You can’t do this yet.” The word “yet” allows you to talk about what can happen.

There is no end to studies written on this topic, and I do not profess to have all the answers, but I do remember the limiting belief we could have fallen victim to years ago. We chose not to, and I hope if you are ever faced with a similar situation regarding your future, your hopes, and dreams, or those of your child, you will overcome them as well.

Written By: Dave Christy