Online Student Achieves Personal Growth and Educational Goals Through Interdisciplinary Studies

Embarking on the academic journey of pursuing a degree is more than a choice; it’s a commitment to personal and professional growth. For many, like Renee, the decision to enroll in the University of Cincinnati’s Online Associate of Individualized Study in Interdisciplinary Studies (AIS) program was fueled by a desire for a tailored education that aligned with her educational history and career goals. Read on to hear about Renee’s transformative experience in UC Online’s AIS program that paved the way for her ongoing educational and career pursuits.

Choosing Interdisciplinary Studies

Q: Can you tell us about what motivated you to pursue the AIS degree program?

Renee: The main motivation behind choosing the AIS program was the opportunity it presented for me to expand my education through coursework that fit my specific goals and schedule.

A Seamless Credit Transfer

Q: Have you previously attended college? If so, was it helpful to find a program that allowed you to use your previously earned credits?

Renee: Before I began my interdisciplinary studies degree, I was enrolled in an in-person full-time program at a different institution. It was extremely helpful to find a program that took my previous college credits. I was able to transfer everything I needed, providing me with a great foundation to start the AIS program. The ease of transferring credits allowed me to graduate quickly and efficiently.

Crafting A Personalized Curriculum

Q: Could you share your experience in developing your curriculum in the interdisciplinary studies program?

Renee: When I was first accepted into the AIS program I had a strong interest in two separate fields. The program enabled me to merge these interests into a combined degree, allowing me to take classes that interested me and aligned with my specific career goals. Working with my advisors and professors to help make my curriculum as beneficial as possible for me was invaluable to my overall experience.

Support from Start to Finish

Q: Did you feel supported from enrollment through graduation? How so?

Renee: I felt extremely supported throughout the entire process. The university provided me with countless resources and helped me get in contact with anyone I needed to at any given time. I had a lot of questions when I first began with UC Online, and the amount of support and guidance I received helped ensure my success in the program. Ultimately, I knew that whenever I had a question or concern, there was a list of reliable individuals ready to help with whatever I needed.

Continuing the Climb: Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree

Q: After earning your interdisciplinary studies degree, what did you do, and what are your future career and educational goals?

Renee: After completing my AIS degree, I applied to the University of Cincinnati’s online Bachelor of Technical and Applied Studies program to pursue my bachelor’s degree. After such a positive experience in the associate program, I knew continuing my educational journey with UC Online was the best fit for me to pursue both my professional and academic goals.

Celebrating Personal Growth and Achievement

Q: What is a favorite memory or proud moment you experienced during your time in the program?

Renee: My proudest achievement in pursuing the AIS degree is that it has brought me to my end goals. I wasn’t sure what I wanted for my future, but the program allowed me to get to know myself as an individual and what I want professionally. This year, I get to apply to graduate school because of the knowledge that UC Online provided me. The program allowed me to further my education while continuing to be a working professional. I could not have advanced my career to meet my personal goals without this program.

The Ideal Interdisciplinary Studies Candidate: Seeking Flexibility

Q: Who would you recommend this program to?

Renee: I would recommend this program to anyone who is looking for a personalized, enriching, and quality education. I was looking for a program that provided me flexibility and helped me achieve my educational goals. I was able to maintain a full-time career while being enrolled in full-time coursework. This program allows an individual to cater their education to their specific needs and goals.

Words of Wisdom for Prospective Students

Q: What would you say to someone who is considering this or any other program at UC Online?

Renee: I would advise anyone considering a program to connect with UC Online’s support team. My experience completely changed when I started having regular communication with my enrollment services advisor, student success coordinator, and academic advisors. These advisors helped guide me before I was even accepted. The program has so many amazing resources to access and talking through my goals with someone helped me exponentially.

Final Thoughts

Q: Is there anything else you want to share regarding your experience?

Renee: I am so thankful to have been a part of such an amazing program. Everyone I have talked to has taken a personal interest in my success as a student and worked with me to ensure that I was getting the most out of the program.

Is Interdisciplinary Studies Right for You?

Learn more about UC Online’s Associate of Individualized Study in Interdisciplinary Studies program and speak to an Enrollment Services Advisor about whether it’s a good fit for you. You can email us at [email protected] or give us a call at (833) 556-4428 from Monday–Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and we’d be happy to walk you through the application process and answer any questions you have about the program.