Busy Student Chooses Online Education for Social Work Degree

Finding the time to get a degree while working is a hurdle many students face. University of Cincinnati (UC) Online student Jaida Aldridge can undoubtedly relate. She juggles her job, working as a Circle K assistant manager while pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work degree.

From the beginning, as Jaida set her sights on attending our university, she found solace in UC’s asynchronous education, which allows her to study when and where she wants — and at the pace she chooses.

Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Program

As Jaida planned her return to college, learning online from a respected school was a critical component. She says, “I was motivated to seek a social work degree at UC because it was entirely online and accredited.”

Jaida recalls how UC was the only school she researched because she immediately felt it was the right fit. “I loved how the program had online classes and could be done at my own pace,” Jaida says.

When deciding between an online program and attending in-person on campus, the decision was clear for Jaida. “I chose online because I could do the classes based on my work and life schedules,” she says.

Online learning has grown increasingly popular among working professionals, including those in the social work field. For people who can’t find time to return to the traditional classroom setting, web-based learning gives them a customized and flexible approach for earning a degree.

Trust the Process

Before she started UC’s program, Jaida was initially hesitant that the course material might be hard to understand or that taking the best notes would be hard. But she was put at ease as soon as the program began. “The professors want you to succeed, and they also want you to learn,” Jaida says. “At times, assignments may challenge your critical thinking skills, but the result is worth the effort you put forth.”

Jaida’s high expectations for the program were met by her actual experience here. She says she enjoys interacting with professors and classmates and not being tied to a daily schedule that could conflict with her work and family. “Online learning has been a great experience, and it far exceeded what I may have thought in the beginning,” she says.

Jaida’s Advice to Other Social Work Professionals

Jaida recommends UC Online to others seeking a career in social work, saying the curriculum’s been challenging but extremely rewarding. She offers encouraging advice to others considering UC Online: “Do not hesitate. Just do it, and you will not regret it. Even though learning (online) may be a bit different, you still can get the help and feedback needed to succeed.”

Jaida plans to use her degree to further her social work career by combining it with her management experience. Specifically, Janelle plans to work with families with dependency issues or individuals in need.

Your Next Step Is an Email or Phone Call Away

Ready to follow Jaida’s lead and discover how UC Online can benefit your social work career?

Explore everything UC’s program has to offer. Then, call or email an enrollment specialist. Our team is here Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern. They’re ready to answer your questions about UC Online’s Bachelor of Social Work program and what you can look forward to, being part of our exciting Bearcat community.

UC Online’s Bachelor of Social Work staff looks forward to meeting you!