Starting again...

So I went to orientation for grad school today. Yep, I'm really doing it! Classes start around January 20th and my first in-class meeting is January 31st. I'm kind of nervous that I forgot how to do school. I started school at a really young age...I basically started at 2. And went until I was 22. Then I took a 5 1/2 year break to work. Yeah, some break! And now I want to still work full-time while going to GRAD school of all things? Sometimes I wonder what I am thinking! :)

But, it's always been a goal of mine to get my Master's degree and I found a program that I am comfortable with. I looked at 6 or 7 schools and EMBA programs before deciding on TWU. I like theirs because for the EMBA program (the one that is supposed to be designed for working professionals), they waive the GRE/GMAT requirements. They found that since it is a requirement to be working for at least 5 years after you receive your under-grad to qualify for the EMBA program, that these people have often forgotten how to take standardized tests. And they still usually do the best in the Master's program. So, why make them take the tests, right? I'm cool with that.

Second, they only charge the standard state tuition rates. A lot of these other schools charge a premium for the EMBA because let's face it. People seeking this kind of a program are working so they have more money, right? HA! Not so much.

Third, the way they have it set up actually makes it feasible to achieve. Let's take UTD for example: they said that in order to graduate in at least 3 years, you had to take 4 classes a semester. All at the same time. And the classes met once a week for 4 hours during the work week! So, 4 nights a week I was expected to be in class until 10pm? While still working 40 hours? Seriously? That's not convenient! TWU has it set up to where you take 3 classes a semester and you only take one class at a time. So, each class lasts about 6 weeks and you meet 3 of the Saturdays at one of their 5 campuses. Yeah, I like that much better!

Fourth, they allow you to take 2 electives. None of the other EMBA programs did that. And, one of their options was a study tour. The other programs either offered it (which was included in the jacked up price) or didn't (and still had a jacked up price). Yes, it does cost extra, but even with that thrown in, the overall cost of the program is still cheaper! And, spend a week and a half in another country for class credit? Yes please!

Fifth, its only 15 months. The others were at least 2 years or longer. Ugh. I want my Master's but not that much. Lazy? A little. But I have already gone to school for 20 years!

Overall, I like the program and am more excited than nervous. I think I can do it. I hope I can do it! :)