Decisions, Decisions

When I first began to explore master’s degree programs, there were three big factors for me: 1) reputation -- I wanted an ALA-accredited program, 2) location -- I was engaged and about to be married and not in a situation to move away, and 3) cost -- let's be realistic, higher education is expensive and money is always something to consider. Fast forward through the typical prospective student research, I decided on Drexel University's online Library and Information Science program. Being that this is a completely-online degree program, I will admit I was a bit apprehensive about the quality of education I'd receive. After graduating from a fabulous traditional college (Go Siena!), I was unsure of how I would relate to the online environment. In fact, as I began to tell people about my decision about my online choice, most comments weren't encouraging. "It's all online? How do you meet? How do you communicate? Is it all through e-mail?"

Now, three quarters in, I think I can say I made the right decision. I find the discussion on the bulletin boards each week more engaging than ANY classroom session in my undergrad. With each posting, I find myself really thinking about what I want to say and the flexibility of the online environment lets me make my comments at anytime of the day – a big bonus for a young woman who works full time, would like to celebrate the joys of a new husband and have a house, family, and friends to take care and enjoy. Now, when a person asks me, “So how do you like the online setup?”, I simply smile to myself and start to share the wonderful experience. Online education isn’t for everyone. There is a definite self-motivation that is required. But for me, this was the right choice for my journey to professional librarianship.