The Next Level: Ashley Shelton on Online Programs

By Arkansas NEXT Staff on Thursday, September 3, 2015

Like a lot of college students, Cherokee Village native Ashley Shelton was finding it difficult to balance her work and school schedules. Lucky for her, Ozarka College offers degree plans entirely online. “I’m able to do my classes whenever it’s convenient for me,” she says. Now in the second year of her associate of applied science degree in health information technology, Ashley says she’s completely sold on the idea of an online degree plan. Her next step is a bachelor’s in psychology and social work through an online program at another Arkansas school.

What’s so great about going the online route?
The freedom of being able to do my classwork when it’s convenient for me. I don’t have to be in class at a certain time, and I can do my homework in my pajamas on my couch! It allows you to work on your degree while still being able to fulfill life’s obligations.

What’s a typical day like for you?
I’ll usually check my online class schedule on Monday mornings to see what’s due that week. I go to my job in the evenings, so if I have online assignments to do, I work on them before my shift. If I’m not too tired, I’ll work on some more classwork after my job, too.

Any advice for students considering an online degree program?
Although you don’t wake up and go to class, there are due dates that you must have your work done by. It’s still school, and it still requires studying and note-taking to pass your classes. You have to tell yourself, “OK, I’m gonna get this assignment done by Tuesday.” And then you have to make yourself do it.

I tell my friends that are new to the online program to check their schedules on a regular basis so they know exactly what they have to do and when they have to do it.

This option is for you if:

  • You need to work full time
  • You’re more of an introvert
  • You’d like to save your gas money

ADVANTAGES
Online degree programs are more convenient, offering working students a flexible class schedule and the ability to work at their own pace.

COST
The cost of online programs is usually comparable to or less expensive than traditional programs. And while there are many credible institutions offering online degrees, be wary of unaccredited programs with claims that are too good to be true.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Just like a traditional one, online programs have certain requirements, including a minimum high school GPA and test scores.

HOUSING
Since your schedule is more flexible, you might find more employment opportunities that allow you to get a place of your own if you’re living with the ‘rents.

This option is for you if:

You need to work full time

You’re more of an introvert

You’d like to save your gas money