Elizabeth Bynum ('05)
Bachelors in Administrative Studies
(Online)
College of Professional Studies
In Spring 2006 Arkansas native Elizabeth Bynum was searching for a
quality online degree program that fit into her busy lifestyle. The
St. John's online Bachelor's Degree in Administrative Studies was
the solution to the problem for this hardworking, motivated
student. "I constantly read articles regarding online degree
programs, and eventually decided to take action,” Elizabeth
stressed. “It was one of the most important decisions I have made.
I knew that once I took this leap, there would be no turning
back."
Distance Learning fit perfectly with her busy lifestyle. The
convenience and flexibility made it possible for her to work and
participate in other activities while working toward her degree. It
allows her the flexibility to meet work related travel commitments
by completing assignments beforehand without missing a beat.
Similarly, when faced with a busy week of course assignments, she
was able to adjust her work schedule to accommodate the
requirements of the class. Consequently the time saved by no longer
commuting to and from school has allowed her to work more
hours.
Although Elizabeth had prior experience with online courses at a
local community college her experience at St. John’s far exceeded
her expectations. “The quality of my education and the dedication
of the professors are exceptional. The personal interaction is much
greater than that of a face-to-face classroom and teachers provide
a great deal of encouragement and assistance.”
Currently Elizabeth is weighing her options before deciding on a
career path. She realizes the importance of a college degree and
the many options now available to her. She truly appreciates the
opportunities this program has afforded her.
Elizabeth advises students returning to college to assess personal
and professional goals, adding, “I’ve discovered that the desire
for knowledge carries me closer to my goal of attaining my degree.”
For Elizabeth making a conscious decision to resume her education
has made all the difference. “When you choose to return to college,
you are ready for the dedication and responsibility of finishing
your degree. Believing in yourself and not being afraid to ask for
help will help you be successful.”
Tia Williams ‘04
Associates of Liberal Arts Degree Program
(Online)
College of Professional Studies
For Tia Williams, earning a bachelor’s degree at St. John’s
University was unfinished business. Back in 1991, Tia enrolled to
pursue her B.A. degree in St. John’s College of Professional
Studies. “I always loved St. John’s,” Tia says. “It’s a wonderful
place to pursue an education.”
Though Tia enjoyed her studies, a career opportunity in Florida led
her to leave St. John’s before earning her degree. Relocating to
Tampa, Tia began work as a database administrator. Yet she never
gave up on her plans to earn her degree – if possible, at the
University where she originally began. “I never forgot my St.
John’s experience,” she says. “I thought it was important to have a
sense of completion where I began my academic studies,” she
says.
Tia found her opportunity on the Internet. A frequent browser of
St. John’s Web site, she discovered that the University offers
accredited online degree programs. She quickly contacted Pam
Dalton, Director of Online Advisement at St. John’s. Tia learned
she needed only three credits to earn a 60-credit associate’s
degree. So in the summer of 2004, Tia set out to realize her dream
by enrolling in the online course “The Short Novel in World
Literature.”
“Attending class online was unbelievably convenient,” says Tia.
“All I had to do was log in to my computer, make sure the Internet
connection was working and have a quiet space to get my work
done.”
Best of all, Tia says, her online course offered the same high
quality and faculty support she experienced on-campus years ago.
Though the reading list was demanding, Tia’s professor, Joseph
Marotta, made the course “interesting and enjoyable.” Having earned
her associate’s degree online, Tia is now exploring St. John’s
online bachelor’s degree programs to advance her academic and
professional goals.
Student comments:
"The Professor is very helpful and understanding with all the
students. She made my first online course experience a great
one."
"Online courses are very convenient to those that need certain
classes but cannot fit them into their schedule because of the days
that they are being offered."
"I was able to learn a great deal while not being forced to commute
to school, I was able to take exams (within guidelines) when
it was convenient and when I felt prepared to do so."
" I have enjoyed it very much and wish more course like this were
offered, especially for the core classes. They allow for a
better schedule and I felt that I learned just as much in a more
comfortable setting."
"Courses are well structured and relevant. Assignments are
clearly expressed and there are no last minute changes or
surprises."