BUSINESS

Making dreams come true through non-traditional education

Tina Miller, Methodist University
Tina Miller

Every day, non-traditional learners walk through my office door and sit beside me, excited, nervous and hopeful.

I remember a student dropping by my office to share her story of driving past Methodist University several times a day and thinking she could never attend classes here because she worked full-time and needed evening courses. She was delighted when I informed her that she could take the courses she needed for her degree in the evening. She will graduate in December with a bachelor of social work degree.

Then there is the story of the student who had attended other universities but never found herself or her calling until she stepped onto Methodist University. She too, will graduate in December! Or the veteran student who recently crossed the stage at graduation with his young son by his side to accept his diploma after completing one of the evening degree programs. These are just a few of the faces and stories of our non-traditional students.

These students, not unlike first-time college students, are new or returning students who have full-time employment, who are parents raising children, or empty-nesters. For the first time, or perhaps for the first time in a long while, they are able to focus on their own hopes and dreams of pursuing or finishing a college degree. Some may wish to add certifications to better market themselves, while others may simply seek to take courses because it is something they have always wanted to do. Whatever the reason, my job as the director of the Methodist University at Night and Extended Learning program, is to advise them, coach them and serve as their greatest cheerleader until their dream becomes their reality.

With the growing number of non-traditional students pursuing degrees or certifications, and the continued explosion of technology, students pursuing degrees have a variety of course delivery options. Many seek the traditional experience and enjoy being on campus in a classroom setting. A second pathway for non-traditional students is the option of blended courses. Professors teach a portion of the course in the classroom and a portion online. This method affords students the opportunity to have some interaction with professors and students in the classroom, while also reducing the amount of time driving to campus.

The final pathway for instructional delivery is online. Students taking online courses generally are not required to come to campus. They like the convenience, but also indicate online courses are not for everyone because students must be disciplined and highly organized to ensure deadlines are met.

Non-traditional students are valued at colleges and universities throughout our nation. They bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience, which enriches the education of others. They learn from their professors and classmates, which enhances their own knowledge and skill levels. They are highly committed and work hard to achieve their dreams of earning a degree or certification. For me, there is nothing more rewarding than coaching them through this journey and seeing the pride on their faces as I watch them cross that stage at graduation!

Tina Miller is director of MU@Night at Methodist University. Reach her at tmiller@methodist.edu.