APU Careers & Learning Online Learning

Dedicate Yourself to the Goal of an Online Degree

online-ed-goalsBy Robert Gordon
Program Director, Reverse Logistics Management at American Public University

Success means pushing toward a goal. Many first-year college students learn to be dedicated to the goal, not just involved. To understand dedication, consider a breakfast of eggs and bacon–the chicken was involved with breakfast, the pig was dedicated.

Success does not come easily. Even people touted by the media as overnight sensations have usually been honing their craft for years before making it big, laboring in obscurity before achieving notoriety. There is no shortcut when it comes to achievement at the highest levels.

Once an adult learner enrolls to earn an advanced degree, the hard work begins. A student must commit to attending class and having the persistence to earn a good grade. A top grade will not come just by showing up.

At an online university, students must not only read what is assigned and apply the information. Students must complete the assignments and participate in the forum discussions. Each class is another important achievement in the successful completion of a degree.

If a person stops one credit short of graduation, it is the same as never having started a degree. The difference between earning a degree and almost earning a degree is significant to employers.

Greatness comes to those that believe that they can achieve. Students must keep the goal of graduation alive to stay motivated to the end. Although this might seem daunting, students are not alone in the adventure of earning a degree.

Contacting the professor during office hours or finding a tutor can help make a difference. Friends and loved ones are also an important source of support.

As an online student, you may have to dig deep to find the resolve to finish your degree, but maintaining a passion for success will sustain you. Make the journey count so that success will feel all that much better in the end.

About the Author

Dr. Robert Lee Gordon is the program director for the Reverse Logistics Management department at American Public University. Dr. Gordon has over 25 years of professional experience in supply chain management and human resources. Dr. Gordon earned his Doctorate of Management and Organizational Leadership and his Masters of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix as well earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from UCLA.

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