UC Online Student “Can’t Recommend the Bachelor’s in Professional Studies Enough”

Choosing to go back to college as an adult learner is a big commitment. Not only can it seem daunting to balance an education with life commitments like jobs and family, but every student wants to make sure they’re in the right program to achieve their long-term goals. Gabrielle Williams, a student in the University of Cincinnati’s online Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies (BAPS) program, says this is the sort of situation she was in before deciding to come back.

“As I weighed my options to reentering university as an adult learner, I had a list of attributes that I was looking for in a program. I wanted my schooling to be purposeful, interesting, and fast-tracked. I wanted my courses to be relevant to my existing career, while simultaneously allowing my potential career paths to multiply.” – Gabrielle Williams | BAPS Student

Like so many other students at the University of Cincinnati Online, Gabrielle had some prior college experience and an existing career path that she wanted to broaden with a new degree. The BAPS program was made for students just like her. She recently completed the BAPS Foundations Course, where students determine how they can fast-track their path to a highly-applicably degree using their life experience. She shared the story of her experience with UC Online as a professional studies student this month. Read what she had to say below.

What’s your Current Status in the Bachelor’s in Professional Studies?

I was part of the first cohort to participate in this program, and it has been the conversation within my friend group for a full semester now. I’m not just a student. I am a valued member of my cohort and I’m using my time to network with other professionals. We are bouncing ideas off of each other and inspiring growth. We are reflecting and growing at the same time and it’s a true bonding experience.

Why did you Choose UC Online Over Other Institutions?

Fast and easy acceptance, willingness to take credits from ten years ago. UC Online had two programs that piqued my interest. I decided to go with the program that allowed me the most flexibility in class selection.

Describe Your Background in Detail. What Life Experience did you Bring as a Professional Studies Student?

I have had the privilege of carving out an alternative path to success. A little over 12 years ago, I received an associate’s degree with a certificate in massage therapy.  I worked for myself for 3 years, then went on to own and operate a boutique spa in the downtown of a well-known metropolis. I sold my business to travel around the world for two years. Now that I’m back in America I am finally getting a bachelor’s degree while I do my time on the corporate side of spa.

What Were You Expectations of the Professional Studies Foundations Course?

I thought the foundations portion of the course was only going to be centered around carving out my plan to graduate. It was so much more!

Having Finished the BAPS Foundations Course, What are Your Thoughts on it Now?

The foundations course was the highlight of my first semester. I was exposed to some concepts that became the conversation of my friend group, and I also learned some terminology about some concepts that I had already been attempting to express but lacked the verbiage. Even if I wasn’t going to finish, I’m glad I took the foundations course.

This program calls on you to reflect on, and evaluate your past experiences, while simultaneously exposing you to a growth mindset. The subjects we discussed during the first semester were so captivating and stimulating that since the semester has ended, I have pursued further independent learning.

What Are Your Thoughts on the Professors of This UC Online Program So Far? How Are Your Interactions With Them?

So far, as an adult learner, I feel like my professors started out with a desire to connect and offer a shared learning experience. I have no doubt that they learned just as much as we did during the first semester. Personally, I feel l was able to network and be seen as a peer, not just a student. As an adult learner, you don’t want to feel as though you’re being treated as below the professor. Not once has this happened in this course.

What Do You Plan to Do with Your Degree?

Since this program allows me to take some business classes, and personal development classes, I am already implementing what I have learned in my work life.

Any Final Thoughts?

For any professionals thinking about going back to finish their degree, I cannot recommend this program enough! The learning has been immediate and impactful!

Fast-Track Your Degree Path at UC Online

If you can relate to Gabrielle’s career development story, the University of Cincinnati Online has a place for you! Our Bachelor’s in Professional Studies program lets you put your life experience to work toward earning your degree in a program that is applicable to many career paths. Whether you’re most interested in advancing in your current career path or changing your trajectory completely, this program is a worthwhile investment for your future.

BAPS Program Highlights:

• 100% Online
• Customizable Education Track for each Student
• Life Experience Credits
• Student Success Support & Resources
• Financial Aid
• Transfer Credit Acceptance.

If you’re ready to advance your career and excel to new heights, we invite you to submit an application and get in-touch with our staff today! You can visit our Bachelor of Arts in Professional Studies program page to submit your application online. If you have questions, you can email our team directly or call (513) 556-6459 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays.