World Wide Learn:

What are your career aspirations? How does getting a degree fit into them exactly?

Elaine Johnson:

I would like to become a Certified Public Accountant. I would prefer to grow with a company to obtain industry knowledge. If that is not possible, then I will have the education combined with the experience to acquire a more satisfying career. The reason for a degree is obvious with a goal to become a CPA, but the job market is tough. It is becoming increasingly popular to require a degree to narrow the field of applicants for a position.

World Wide Learn:

Why did you decide on your particular program, and why University of Phoenix?

Elaine Johnson:

I chose the Business Administration program because accounting was not available on campus at the time. Business Administration offers more financial classes than business management. Fortunately, the accounting program is being added to the San Antonio campus and I will be able to switch to my preferred program.

I chose University of Phoenix because of the flexibility offered. I need to remain employed full time while I attend college and other Universities do not have the programs available to make this possible. At the University of Phoenix campus, you attend class one night per week and my learning team generally meets one time a week. If there ever becomes a time that I can no longer attend the campus I have the option of transferring to the University of Phoenix online program.

World Wide Learn:

has surprised you so far about your program? What are some things that you hadn't expected?

Elaine Johnson:

It has surprised me how fast each class is complete and I am one step closer to my degree. The instructors work in the field that they teach and bring real world experiences to the classroom. This makes the curriculum a little more exciting and easier to learn. The majority of textbooks required are available as an e-book on the student website and if you prefer, there is the option of purchasing the textbook in printed format. There is also a comprehensive online library available for student use.

World Wide Learn:

How do you fit your coursework into your busy work schedule? How much time do you spend per week?

Elaine Johnson:

I normally prefer to work on coursework during my lunch hour and on the weekend. I have class one night a week and a learning team study session once a week. In addition, I normally study and complete coursework for a minimum of five hours a week depending on the curriculum. I can complete my assignments at my own pace as long as the assignments are completed by the night of class.

World Wide Learn:

What are some challenges you've faced with respect to your degree coursework?

Elaine Johnson:

It can be a challenge to concentrate on coursework while working fulltime and juggling family commitments. Algebra classes were especially hard for me and required a lot of extra study time. During these classes, I relied more on my family to help with cooking dinner and household chores. I had to keep in mind that the class would be over in five weeks and then I could get back to my normal routine.

World Wide Learn:

How much time do you spend communicating online with your instructor or other students? What role does online communication play in your program?

Elaine Johnson:

While I am not in the online degree program, I still rely on online communication. If I have a question about an assignment, I prefer to ask the instructor via e-mail. I normally communicate with my teammates and send portions of our assignment via e-mail. All of my program detail is listed on the student website. I can view current class reading assignments, view upcoming classes, and view the grades that I have received in previous classes.

World Wide Learn:

What advice would you give to someone considering earning their degree at University of Phoenix?

Elaine Johnson:

Research and compare University of Phoenix to other universities and you will find that University of Phoenix offers more flexibility and convenience. Keep in mind that your previous college credits can be evaluated and transferred to University of Phoenix. Every class involves teamwork, valuable real world experience, and the ability to improve your verbal and written communication skills. University of Phoenix is a legitimate educational choice. You are paying for classes that you must pass in order to obtain your degree. You never know what life holds and I have found that University of Phoenix is flexible to my life changes. I have attended two campuses and if considered necessary at some point, I could switch to the online program.