Allison posed this question on my About page.
It was a strange journey. I knew I wanted an advanced degree in Education. I knew I wanted to focus on adult education. I also knew that I wanted a program that 100% distance, since I have to travel sometimes.
I started looking for a program that would help me develop programs for adults on the autism spectrum. But I couldn’t find a program that specific. I looked at the MA colleges, since I am in MA, but I don’t think any of them were 100% distance.
I was an undergrad at FSU, in the Information Studies program. I know from first-hand experience how wired FSU is, so I knew that the infrastructure existed for a distance program. Also, a woman at work (who is now one of my mentors) holds a PhD from the Instructional Systems program. She recommended it to me.
Cost wasn’t a huge factor, but even attending as an out-of-state student is less expensive than attending one of the private colleges in Massachusetts.
Once I started to look at the courses and requirements for FSU, I knew it was where I wanted to go. So far, I have not been disappointed. I am learning technical terms for the techniques we already use in my job. I’m in a place where I can research the new tools and techniques that are being developed for corporate education.
I am really happy with my decision. Although, it is A LOT of work. I have to say I’ll be happy when I have that degree!