In the fall of 1990, Deborah took her first print-based courses, intending to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Her ultimate goal at the time was a Doctorate in Management Science. In May 2001, Deborah met the first part of her goal: she walked across the stage as an honor graduate and received her hard-earned Bachelor of Science in Business Administration!  Although others might have been content with such a major accomplishment, Deborah was not. In June, she began taking online courses, now focusing on earning a Master of Science in Project Management. 

During her first few enrollment plans as a distance learning student, Deborah discovered that she had troublemaking her course work a priority, and she decided to adopt a more proactive approach to studying. Using time-management skills, she listed her goals, ranked them, and came to the conclusion that completing her degree was a top priority. She set a time frame and developed contracts with herself so she could track her progress. Deborah found sticking with her schedule difficult at first -- particularly when career and family demands increased-- but she focused on meeting her self-imposed deadlines. 

"By my fourth enrollment, I was feeling more comfortable with balancing school, work, and family commitments," said Deborah.  "This was important to me because, unlike many distance learning students, I had transferred in only 16 previous credits. I was committed to completing 104 credits through UW-Platteville's distance learning program.  At times, I must admit it seemed overwhelming."

As she continued further with her studies, Deborah found that she was able to apply the principles learned in her coursework in the "real world" of her work site. 

"The business core courses and, particularly, the electives provided me with new ideas, techniques, and contemporary wisdom that I applied to many situations in my work environment," said Deborah.

Deborah credits her advisor, Jerry Oxenford, with offering her support and encouragement to reach her goal. 

"Throughout the years it took me to complete my undergraduate work, Jerry provided constructive input, reviewed my enrollment plans, and recommended alternative strategies. He and the staff in the Distance Learning Center were very important players in helping me stay focused on my goals," said Deborah.  "I have told others how impressed I am with the involvement of the distance learning faculty at UW-Platteville. They are readily accessible if I have questions, are easily engaged in conversation about business concepts or applications, and demonstrate a genuine interest in my success."

Having experienced courses through both the online and print formats, Deborah has been able to compare the two methods. 

"In many respects, print-based courses provided me with more flexibility in scheduling. For instance, I could complete readings and written assignments at one time and schedule the exams later. I could plan time off for a business trip or vacation without adversely impacting my deadlines or other team members," said Deborah. "The online courses are scheduled to be completed within a semester's timeframe.  I find that I have to be online and working with team members on a daily basis. Completing reading, assignments, and team interaction become an adjunct to each and every work day. However, while I've had to make adjustments to my scheduling process, I am greatly enjoying the online courses. I have the ability to network, both online and offline, with other students who share my career interests. Working on the project teams gives me a 'real-life' scenario and provides added value. Personally, I believe a combination of online and print-based courses for both the undergraduate and graduate programs would offer the best set of choices for working adults."

Deborah offers some great advice for those who may be contemplating print or online courses: "As one who has spent years (and more to come) with distance learning, I believe the best advice I can offer is something told to me years ago: 'Plan your work and work your plan!'  Put your objectives in writing and hold yourself accountable for meeting them. Ask for support from your family, coworkers, and the staff and faculty of the Distance Learning Center."