Lost in the hustle and bustle of Christmas and the blitz to wrap up courses, there’s a little holiday called Thanksgiving. I think this day gets overlooked, and, as with many American holidays, the true meaning is skipped right over. As Christians, we are mindful of the things we have to be grateful for. The word abundance has stuck with me in the weeks leading up to the holiday season.. We are blessed, living with more than enough provision. But it goes beyond that. We lead lives with an abundance of intangible blessings and grace. If you look at from an American perspective, many of us are enjoying blessings that our parents and grandparents hoped for us. How many of us have the opportunity to “have it all” - the education, the family, the career, the house and car? We live in abundance. Initially, the thought made me feel a twinge of guilt. I will be the first woman in my family to have all these things. But I recognized that in living in God’s gracious abundance, I have the opportunity to pour out even more. How can I leverage my education to impact others around me? Can I use my skills and knowledge to help them achieve their own goals and ambitions? What is the calling in my life to further His kingdom with my career, based on the education I have been granted? How is my life positioned to make eternal impacts in ways not available to those before me? These questions can be asked of you. How is God calling you to utilize the abundance in your storehouses? The abundance we enjoy is not limited to the material possessions we have or the careers we’re working towards. We are abundantly blessed by the relationships and friendships fostered through our educational and professional networks. Don’t overlook the value or forsake the connections made during this season, especially in a like-minded, Christian environment. How is God speaking to you this Thanksgiving season? How can you use your abundance for His glory? Enjoy your Thanksgiving, from your family at Amberton University! “For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance.” - Matthew 13:12a

Letter writing is an artform. It requires one to deliberately set aside time to complete them, which is challenging given our chaotic and busy world. Yet letters are so invaluable. Before you start your first round of college courses, sit down and write a letter to yourself to read when you graduate. Write down what you expect to take from your time in school–you’ll be surprised at how much more you learn about yourself and your field of study. Tell your future self about the things that motivate and drive you. Remind yourself of the things that intimidate you and even worry you about college and the challenge you’re undertaking. One day you’ll look back and see that you are so much greater than those doubts and fears, and you will see how you’ve grown and achieved your goals despite them. Even though you’re an adult and have life experience, college will refine you. You envision challenges today in the abstract, but, as with anything, you don’t know how you’ll react until you’re in the situation. You’ll learn to think with a new perspective and gain fresh, valuable professional insights. Like iron sharpens iron, you will be tested and improved during your time in college. Writing a letter will give voice to your thoughts and feelings. You’ll more clearly see the progress and change you’ve made. Graduation is a proud time. There’s a definite satisfaction to earning a degree. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, roughly 33 percent of American adults have an undergraduate degree and only 12 percent hold an advanced degree. Relish your achievement once you’re there, and give yourself a way to look back and see how far you’ve come. Take a few minutes to self-reflect, plan and dream. Anticipate the challenges and victories of this upcoming season in your life, and then write it down. You’ll appreciate it on graduation day.

Amberton University does not require prospective graduate students to submit GRE or GMAT scores in their application.  All 18 master’s programs are accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission. You can find full graduate application requirements here or contact an advisor to discuss your application today!

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Getting all your ducks in a row to prepare your application for graduate school is a lengthy and detailed process. One of the most important boxes to check is taking the GRE or the GMAT.

So what’s the difference between the GRE and the GMAT? And why doesn’t every school require applicants to take one of these tests?

Both the GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) and the GMAT (Graduate Management Admission Test) are standardized tests utilized for graduate-level admissions. Both tests include three sections: an analytical writing section, a quantitative section, and a verbal section.

The function of the GRE is to gauge a student’s ability to succeed in a graduate program and evaluate their general academic aptitude. The GRE is the most widely accepted graduate admissions test globally.

The GMAT is specifically used to predict a student’s success in a business program, and is often required for admissions to an MBA program. This test includes a fourth section which assesses a student’s integrated reasoning skills.

The GRE and GMAT are graduate-level counterparts to the SAT and ACT. The tests are similar and evaluate like categories. Certain universities or degree programs prefer one test score over the other. Make sure you know what the program requires well in advance of applying so you can adequately prepare and schedule to take the appropriate test.

Many universities are moving away from requiring the GRE or GMAT for graduate school admissions, or are changing the emphasis placed on scores for specific circumstances. Admissions boards are using substitute components to evaluate applicants, including resumes, portfolios, writing samples, professional work experience, and more. These markers are often more predictive of a student’s performance and professional success than standardized testing.

On the flip side of the coin, a GRE or GMAT requirement is not indicative of the quality of the degree program. When choosing a graduate program, you should research the university and department’s reputation, determine if a school is accredited, and evaluate if online and on-campus courses and requirements mirror one another.

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.