You dutifully undertake extra responsibilities at home. You’re a steadfast support, homework checker and study buddy. You’re the piece that really completes the whole puzzle. And you are appreciated.

Generally, the families and support systems of students aren’t recognized until graduation day. Sometimes in the grind of starting and completing a college education, the focus is so dialed in on the student, that the importance and vital support from the family can be overlooked or even taken for granted. So, on behalf of your student, and in advance, you’re the best.

You’re the best because you’re going to deal with a lot, and will still hold it all together.

1. Be understanding

Supporting your spouse’s decision to go back to school might seem like a one-time decision, but you will have to wake up each morning and choose to be understanding. You might even have to make that decision multiple times a day. Going back to school is stressful and can be intimidating. Be reassuring of your partner’s capabilities and understanding of the feelings, emotions, and responsibilities they’ve undertaken. You are the lighthouse in the storm.

2. Allow them to focus

Stepping up to the plate and shouldering more responsibility at home so your spouse can buckle down on their studying and school work will make all the difference in your spouse’s academic success. Ultimately, academic success will result in professional success that will benefit your family for years to come.

3. Celebrate the accomplishments

The best part of being a fan is watching your team win. The best part of being a spouse when your partner is in school is seeing them get an A, pass the class, graduate, and just be excellent overall. Break out those pom poms, boys and girls! Celebrate those achievements! Remind your spouse you are proud of their accomplishments - no matter how small they might be.

4. Stay connected

School is in session and everyone is busy. Dedicate yourself to making time to regularly connect with your spouse. It’s a running theme for any married couple - make time for each other, date your spouse, communicate. But it’s worth repeating. Stay anchored in your relationship. Don’t allow the research papers, presentations, and finals to take over your lives completely.

5. Remember it’s only for a season

College won’t last forever. Eventually, your spouse will complete the graduation requirements and earn their degree. The routine will shift again, and you’ll live more like you did before they enrolled. You’ll have made it through the hardship together. Seasons are temporary, and even though you might not know exactly when graduation day will be, it will come. When choosing to be supportive is harder, remember it’s just a short season of life.

You are special. You are valued. And when graduation day comes at Amberton, it’s as much about you as it is about your student spouse. So put on your game face, and rock this school experience together.

Making the decision to go back to school is nothing to be taken lightly. You’re investing a lot of time, money and sweat into completing your degree. Ask yourself these five questions to figure out if it’s the right move for you.

1. Why do you want to go back or start now for the first time?

Everyone’s reasons for going to school as an adult are different and they’re all valid. First, identify the root of why you’re considering going back to school. It could be that you want to go back as an example for your children, or to fulfill a promise to your parents, or to better your career, or for your own personal achievement. Figuring that out can help you determine if you’re making the decision for the right reasons.



2. What is your motivation level?

Finishing your degree requirements is a marathon, not a sprint. This is especially true for the adult learner. At Amberton, courses are 10 weeks long. This means you can take more classes throughout the calendar year, and the curriculum is slightly condensed compared to the standard college semester. Your motivation level is typically highest when you’re at the start of something strenuous. Are you mentally prepared to work through the grind until Graduation Day?



3. How is your support system?

Adult students have more to deal with than just going to lectures and completing their course assignments. Many of you have jobs and families that demand your time and attention. They cannot be slid to the back burner. Before you make the decision to enroll in college, evaluate who your closest supports will be. How will they help you? Which additional responsibilities and tasks will they adopt? Can you share the load with others during this season of your life?



4. Will having a degree bolster your career?

This is a big question to answer. Will your promotional opportunities be dependent on whether or not you have a degree? If you can definitively say you have reached a roadblock in your career (or will eventually) without a bachelor’s or master’s degree, then you should certainly pursue continuing your education. Make moves to improve yourself and set yourself up for the best successes possible.



5. Can you afford to go back?

With that college education comes college tuition. It is an investment, but it can be a sacrifice to make the payments. At Amberton, our goal is to provide quality education at an affordable price. Many of our students graduate with little to no student debt. Additionally, we offer plenty of options on how you can pay for your education. Employers also recognize the value of having an educated workforce. Check with your human resources department about tuition reimbursement benefits before enrolling.

There will always be reasons not to go back to school. It’s easy to put off. But if working towards your degree is the right move for you, reach out to our advisors. They are ready and willing to help you get started on this exciting path! We are here to support you as you work to reach your goals.

Going to college at any age is intimidating. Questions about your capabilities and competence bounce around in your head. How will you fit in? How will you manage the workload and perform to the best of your abilities? How are you going to handle everything going on in your life? There is added pressure going back to school as an adult. You’re balancing real responsibilities - paying the bills, working your 9-5, maybe making sure the kids are fed, and you’re maintaining a relationship with your spouse. But working through college is just a season in your life. You can manage it. You can accomplish your goals and dreams.

1. 1. You’re not alone.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 33 percent of the 18 million undergraduate students in the U.S. are over the age of 25, and 22 percent are over the age of 30. Non-traditional students are becoming the new normal. UCLA’s Professor of Education Mike Rose’s research shows that almost 45 percent of postsecondary students in the U.S. did not enroll in college directly after high school. While everyone’s reasons and path is different - you are not out of the ordinary in going back to school.

1. 1. Develop a support system.

In any long, difficult journey, it’s always better to travel with a companion. As you begin your coursework, identify who in your life is going to be there to walk with you. Obvious choices include a spouse/significant other, your parents, or your professors and advisers, but also look to the people within your degree program. Don’t be afraid to reach out and lean on one another. While you’re working your way through your classes, use every tool at your disposal.

1. 1. Build camaraderie.

If all you do is show up to class, turn in your assignments, and check the box, you’re leaving a lot on the table in your college experience. Your fellow students and peers are an opportunity to connect - personally and professionally - and are a wealth of knowledge and experience you might not have. Invest in your classmates. Take the time to learn from them as much as you’re learning from your professors. Just like you, they have outside experiences and perspectives that can be invaluable to others. Use it to your advantage.

1. 1. Learn to study with distractions.

Distractions are everywhere. It’s an American reality. But they might be a little bit different for non-traditional students. Text message alerts and Facebook friend requests are available for everyone. You have looming work project deadlines and hungry mouths to feed. Use your support system, lean on them to help with your responsibilities. Carve out time that is dedicated to schoolwork and studying - even if that means late nights and early mornings. Determine what works best for you, and stick to the routine that allows you to focus on your studies.

1. 1. Control what you can.

Working, going to school, maintaining a home, keeping healthy relationships - it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Keep your focus on things you can control. It’s a line everyone has heard a million times. For someone who is seemingly balancing a tightrope while juggling a dozen flaming batons, this advice is crucial. Manage your time. Do your work. Do your best. Don’t borrow tomorrow’s worries today. Your coursework is temporary, but the results and benefits are lasting.

1. 1. Relax.

A healthy you is the best gift you can give the people you care about. Make sure you are allowing yourself mental health breaks and actually take the time to decompress. Your friends and family will recognize you’re busy working and going to school, but don’t neglect your relationships or your downtime. A life change like going back to school as a working adult seems intimidating and daunting. Don’t allow the doubts to plague you and keep you from pursuing your goals and dreams! Take one step at a time and run your race! The benefits of going back to school and enhancing your education are worth enduring and conquering the challenges before you. Amberton University is designed for the working adult. Courses are flexible and provide non-traditional students with an environment that is conducive to success. For an alumnus perspective on how Amberton worked for him, click for the vide here.

According to a recent study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, students who set shorter-term, task-oriented goals achieved better grades than those who focused solely on the end goal of getting an A in their courses. This approach is particularly beneficial in online classes, where technology can help track progress and provide immediate feedback. One effective way to leverage this strategy is by utilizing the resources available at Amberton’s Learning Resource Center (LRC).

Optimize Your Learning with Amberton’s LRC

At Amberton University, we offer a range of resources designed to help you excel in your academic pursuits. Whether you're an on-campus or distance learning student, our Learning Resource Center is here to support you.

For On-Campus Students:

Reference Help: Visit our library for assistance in finding the best print books, ebooks, and database articles. Formatting and Citation Guidelines: We provide tools and guidelines to help you create high-quality papers and projects. EBSCO Learning Express Database: This valuable resource includes tutorials on writing, research, math skills, job interviews, and more.

For Distance Learning Students:

Virtual Assistance: Schedule a Google Hangout with our librarians for personalized instruction on using our databases and finding credible information for your assignments.

Maximize Your Academic Success

Effective writing and research are crucial components of university-level work. To ensure you’re making the most of available resources, consider the following tips: Start Early: Give yourself ample time to choose a topic and gather resources. Prioritize Important Materials: Focus on essential readings and resources first. Organize Your Notes: Keep your research and notes well-organized. Follow Citation Rules: Understand and apply the specific citation style required for your assignments. Ensure Logical Flow: Structure your paper with a clear introduction and conclusion for better readability.

One of the most invaluable skills you can have, both professionally and in your education, is time management. It’s a buzzword, sure—but for working adults returning to school, mastering time management is crucial. The bottom line: college is different. As a non-traditional student, you’re used to juggling multiple roles. College professors will support you, but they won’t hold your hand like high school teachers might. If you’re taking multiple classes, don’t expect the syllabi to prevent papers, projects, and tests from overlapping. Then, of course, there’s the added challenge of balancing work and family responsibilities.

Know Yourself

Self-awareness is key to effective time management. As a non-traditional student, you benefit from maturity and a deeper understanding of how you operate best. Recognize your strengths and work with them. If you’re an early riser, schedule your classes and homework during those peak productivity hours. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to managing your coursework. Everyone works differently, so figure out what feels right for you and be flexible when needed.

Prioritize and Focus on the Now

This sounds obvious, but it goes beyond figuring out what’s most important. You also need to consider how quickly you can complete a task and whether it's better to spread it out over several sessions. Due dates matter, but should you break up your work by task or by time? That’s for you to decide based on your work style. Don’t wait until you're overwhelmed to prioritize—start at the beginning of the course and adjust as needed. Remember to factor in everyday responsibilities and downtime as well.

Manage Stress

Letting stress overwhelm you will slow you down and reduce the quality of your work. Stay calm and keep your focus. This season of juggling work, school, and life responsibilities is temporary. While it might feel long and tough, it will be over before you know it. Keep an even mindset, and don’t let stress detract from the experience.

Avoid Multitasking

It’s well known that multitasking often leads to poor results. So, avoid it. Keep work separate from school. Don’t overlap family time with homework. Focus on one assignment at a time, for one class at a time. Constantly switching gears won’t get you the results you're looking for.

Delegate When You Can

Being a non-traditional student doesn’t mean you have to do it all alone. Don’t hesitate to rely on friends, family, or coworkers for support. Delegating tasks isn’t about shirking responsibilities; it’s about building a support system that allows you to succeed by focusing on what’s most important.

Take Breaks

Pushing yourself to the brink won’t benefit you in the long run. Schedule time for yourself and take short breaks during study sessions. Even a 10-minute pause can help you refocus and recharge. Prioritizing your mental health is key to overall success. Adjusting to college life as a non-traditional student will have its challenges, but it’s just that—an adjustment. Don’t overlook the changes in your life, and never underestimate the power of solid time management skills. You can succeed, and you will succeed.

“Believe in yourself, and you’re halfway there.” — Theodore Roosevelt

Your mindset and your attitude set the tone for your success and happiness. Don’t allow your attitude to affect and diminish your outlook. A positive mindset is one of the most essential components of your college experience--especially as a non-traditional student. Your perspective matters.

Believe in your abilities. Know you can grow and develop your skills and talents into a force that positively impacts your personal and professional life.

It can be easy to get down on yourself when you’re swamped with work, school, family, bills, friends, the dog, and the gym. It’s a lot to juggle. But maintaining an even keel and a positive outlook will keep all these things in perspective and help you to power through. Use verbiage like “I can” and “I will.”

If you find yourself up against a difficult task, think in terms of “yet.” You’re capable. You just haven’t mastered it yet! 

Every obstacle is an opportunity to grow, learn and improve!

As an adult student, you’re already exposed to the idea of positive thinking to influence your worldview. Hundreds of motivational speakers, self-help books, and seminars on the topic exist. You will have some experience altering your mindset to influence your perspective.

If you haven’t practiced it, there’s no better time than the present to adopt a pattern of growth-minded thinking. And it shouldn’t be lost that you’re already in a learning frame of mind. So what’s learning one more thing? Easy.

College is temporary. The experiences and education are forever. Allow yourself to look back and know you made the most of your time and made strides to be more positive.

Contact an advisor today to begin your journey at Amberton University and unlock your full potential.

As a person of faith, you understand in your heart that your relationship with God and your faith are the qualities that truly define you and bring success to your life. It’s not your job title or income. In Christ, you find your identity.

However, you can align your career with your faith and find personal fulfillment. Aligning your career path with God’s will ultimately bring peace and prosperity to your life.

Recent studies show that job satisfaction has increased, with roughly half of American workers reporting job satisfaction. Experts attribute this uptick to the improved labor market, which allows individuals to move into jobs they enjoy and that complement their skillsets.

Identifying Your Skills and Passions

As a working adult, it’s relatively easy to identify your skills and professional passions. Exposure to the workforce has given you time to evaluate your strengths and gifts. Continuing your education provides an opportunity to refine these abilities further.

We all have goals and dreams about the kind of career we’d like to have and the professional accomplishments we’d like to attain. There’s nothing wrong with that. God has made each of us with desires and talents.

The key is to leverage these skills and passions to further His work. Your attitude toward the definition of success heavily influences your happiness. Are you more concerned with prestige, salary, job titles, or serving God and others where you are?

Pay attention to the gifts with which you have been blessed. There is a reason God placed these skills and passions within you. Seek out His direction on how you ought to implement these talents. Go to Him in prayer, and your path will become clear. Stay focused on worldly standards of success.

Living Your Faith in the Professional World

No matter what situation or season you find yourself in, remember to work for Christ, not for man; commit your heart and strive for excellence as a witness. One of the greatest testimonies a Christian can have is daily living with integrity and consistency.

By aligning your career with your faith, you find fulfillment and success and serve as a beacon of God’s love and truth in the professional world.

Paying for your education doesn’t have to be a scary undertaking. At Amberton University, our pay-as-you-go system allows students to graduate without debt. However, we make navigating the financials as simple as possible for those who need to take advantage of student loans.

Amberton believes in affordable education. We offer courses for $ 900 per 3 credit hours. Pretty great, right? This rate applies to undergraduate, graduate, in-state, and out-of-state students, as well as lecture and distance-learning courses. Even better, we’ve already done the math and the educational cost breakdown for you. Amberton's up-front, cost-effective tuition is specifically designed for working adults. We aim to get you to graduation without being buried in educational debt.

Now that you know how much to expect to pay for your tuition, you can figure out what you need to do to budget for it. Many companies offer tuition assistance or reimbursement as an added benefit for employees. They understand and appreciate how beneficial an educated workforce is. But if your employer isn’t paying for your education, and you can’t afford to pay for it out-of-pocket, there are loan solutions for private universities.

Amberton University provides a Private Loan Worksheet to help you determine your estimated cost of tuition, fees, and books. You must complete the worksheet before applying for a private student loan.

To qualify for private student loans, students must meet the following criteria:

• Student borrowers enrolled at least half-time may apply. Generally, undergraduates are considered half-time if enrolled in 6 hours per session, while graduates must be enrolled in 3 hours.
• The minimum loan amount is currently $1,000.00. Students may be able to borrow up to the full cost of tuition, fees, and books as certified by the University. Amberton will only certify loan amounts for the estimated costs of tuition, fees, and books for the loan period, usually one academic year. Your loan will not be approved to cover living expenses.

A quick Google search will also provide you with various lender options. Find the one that best fits your financial situation and consider interest rates, repayment options, and deferment and forbearance.

Sallie Mae® currently offers loans to qualified Amberton students through the Smart Option Student Loan® program. Students can apply directly online and receive approval within a few hours.

Amberton’s staff are eager to assist you in achieving educational success and satisfaction. You can reach our Financial Aid Office at finaid@amberton.edu or contact Student Services at (972) 279-6511 to help you navigate the process and get your future started!

Finals are tough. No one enjoys taking them. But they’re a necessary evil for every college student. Studying for the big test is important -- of course, you know that. As finals approach it’s important to maintain consistent study sessions. When you’re getting those study juices flowing, remember these tips to maximize your time and efforts.

1. Make a Schedule

You’re a working adult student. You’ve had to carve out time to go to class, write papers, create presentations, study for tests; making time specifically to study for a final is not anything new to you. Don’t overlook or take for granted the time needed to study for the biggest exam of the semester. What’s the best way to eat a whole elephant? One bite at a time. Think of your study sessions the same way. You’ll retain more information if you divide up the material into manageable chunks, and spread out the units over the number of days you have for studying.

2. Find a Quiet Place to Concentrate

No matter what your study and homework sessions looked like throughout the semester, you have to devote your time to studying without distractions before finals. Generally, it’s the biggest portion of your grade for the class. Do you really want to risk anything less than your best because your little one chucked macaroni at you, or the line at Starbucks wrapped around your study table?

3. Ask Questions

Your professors are here to help you learn, grow, and retain the information so you can apply it in your career. If you’re unsure about a topic, ask for clarification. Make sure you set yourself up to understand. Pro tip: if your professor provides you with study guides or a practice final, complete it! Mark it up. Write all over it. And take the practice test a couple of times.

4. Cater to Your Learning Style and Preferences

By the time finals roll around you should be familiar with what works for you during your study sessions. Stick to that game plan. It’s not the time to deviate and try something new. Do what you do, and then knock it out of the park!

5. Take a Break and Rest

This is a biggie. Don’t get so bogged down studying before finals week that you kill your energy and have nothing left in the tank. Have faith that you’ve prepared yourself throughout the course for this last moment. Study and do your thing, but then take time for yourself and relax. Finish the race strong! Finals week sounds daunting and demanding than it really is. It is rigorous, but you’re a working adult student. You’re a rockstar! When you’re walking out of your exam know that you’ve accomplished a lot in taking and completing the course. Savor the feeling and know you’re thriving in college.

The Evolving Landscape of Human Resources

The working world has changed dramatically, and the need for a degree is evident in every career field, including human resources.

As organizational expectations of the potential contributions of a human resources professional have increased, so has the need for HR leaders to possess both experience and a degree.

The Role of Human Resources in Business Success

Managers and supervisors are keys to overall business success.

Everyone understands that human resources are entrusted with sensitive business materials. They are also expected to contribute to employee retention, recruit candidates, develop the organization, and foster a positive working environment.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook:

"A master's degree in human resources, labor relations, or business administration with a concentration in human resources management is highly recommended for those seeking general and top management positions."

Benefits of Furthering Your Education

Furthering your education with a Master’s degree can only benefit your career long-term. Practitioners enjoy a variety of career options and can flex different strengths within their jobs.

There is diversity in the field.

Amberton University's Human Resource Training and Development Program

Our HR Training and Development program graduates fill leadership positions in various public and private settings.

The faculty in the program are dedicated to their student's success, focusing on the benefit and growth of the whole individual.

"Our professors are high touch. We're constantly reaching out to our students, seeing what we can do to help them. We are there for our students, and we respond quickly, which differentiates us," said Amberton Faculty member Dr. DiAnn Sanchez.

Take the Next Step in Your Career

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career, contact Amberton University advisors or read about the program here.