Current Online Student, Full-time Professional, and Now Proud to Introduce Myself as UMassOnline Blogger

Posted on February 8, 2008 by Mark Gillard

I’m thrilled to be the first student to be posting on the new UMassOnline blog; and what better place to write my first post than from a hotel room 2,000 miles away from home where I’m attending a business conference. I just spent the better part of an hour logging into class from my laptop and finishing up this week’s assignments for the classes I’m enrolled in this semester. With a fairly demanding job, I would be hard pressed to finish my degree without the flexibility of online classes.

Over the past several months since this blog launch, I’ve been reading the postings by the staff members of UMassOnline and I’m excited to be part of the team. I’m very impressed with the content and thoughtfulness of the posts. UMassOnline continues to impress me with their dedication in utilizing all the tools of technology to help build the online community and make it a better place for online learning. Just more proof that I chose the right school. (Since I’m volunteering to write here, that’s not a sales pitch!)

I’m a continuing education student enrolled in the Online BBA program at the UMass Amherst Isenberg School of Management. I started my degree several years ago, and (I can’t believe I’m saying this) I have just three more classes to complete my degree requirements! For me this is such a dream come true. Getting a college education is something that I’ve wanted for a very long time. Growing up in a low-income family, my parents had neither the resources nor finances to send any of their five children to college. In fact, I will be the first in my family to receive a college degree.

I’ve been introduced to so many inspirational stories from my fellow students during my time at UMassOnline. Online students come from many walks of life. Most that I’ve met are adults working full time and taking classes part time. One student I remember in particular is a single mom; she works full time, takes care of her ailing Dad, and still manages to fit school in. Talk about inspirational! Whenever I feel like I’m overwhelmed, I always think of her.

I’d be happy to answer any questions you have about my experience at UMassOnline or my experience with online education in general. I encourage you to participate in the discussions on the blog and leave your comments. It’s a great way to interact with the school and help build the UMassOnline community. Adding the UMassOnline Blog to your RSS reader is a great way to keep up to date on the latest posts. I have the blog on my iGoogle page. If you have been thinking of going back to school but don’t think you can do it, I encourage you to please try it. Take an online class; get your feet wet. Once you get that first class down and build your confidence, you’ll jump in and won’t look back!

Comments

5 Responses to “Current Online Student, Full-time Professional, and Now Proud to Introduce Myself as UMassOnline Blogger”

Jennifer Brady on February 8th, 2008 3:49 pm

Welcome Mark! We are thrilled to have you blogging with us and know your insights and experiences will help other online learners have a better understanding of learning online, from seeking the right degree or certificate, to getting in and getting the most of out distance education, and to applying the learning in the workplace. Thanks again for your time and energy!
Som Seng on February 11th, 2008 11:04 am

Having met you while supporting the BBA online program a few years ago, I had the pleasure of helping you research and select the program most suited to your needs. I enjoyed helping you through this process and getting settled into the program and continuing to keep in touch through the years. Now it seems as though the roles have reversed as I am seeking your counsel for tips and advice while finishing up my MBA degree. I will be following your posts mostly and sure to benefit from all you’ve learned!
Mark Gillard on February 11th, 2008 2:20 pm

Thanks Som! In addition to the great education I’m receiving from UmassOnline, the people and support staff have been just great! I remember how much you helped me when I was searching for a school. Your help and support were one of the reasons I chose UmassOnline.

Congrats on going back for your MBA. You’re going to do fantastic!
Bunkong on February 15th, 2008 10:05 am

Dear Mark:

Wow, what a great blog!

Your story is truly inspirational. I am happy and proud to know you (via online teaching). Three more courses to go, Mark, and you will be the first in your family to earn a college degree!

As you know, I am a refugee from Southeast Asia, orphaned early on by wars and immigration. Here I am, now doing my PhD at the University of Massachusetts, teaching at Smith, and next year, beginning my tenure-track job in NY. I hope we will graduate soon. That would be something!

We have come a long way, Mark, and we should be proud of our accomplishments.

Keep on writing, learning, and living life!

Best,
Bunkong
Mark Gillard on February 19th, 2008 11:05 am

Bunkong,

Nice to hear from you. Thank you so much for your comments.

I really enjoyed the “Good and Evil” class I took with you through UmassOnline. It was one of my most memorable classes. It was truly an eye opening class that played a big role in helping with my writing and analytical reading skills.

I wish you success with your PhD and your teaching career.

Mark