As a returning student to the college domain, with a career focus on Cybersecurity Technology, I was extremely thorough in my research on the school I chose. I wanted to be hyper-informed on the program and the institution that I would be dedicating my time and hard-earned money to. So when selecting a college, I wanted to ensure it focused on the schedule I currently had, how personable the University staff was, and the level of academic standing in the specific field.

My first criteria was a flexible schedule that would allow me to continue to work full time. I wanted something based online either completely or at the very least in a hybrid schedule. I have been a first responder for the last several years in a position that works around the clock seven days a week, 24 hours a day. I needed a school schedule that I could do coursework and attend at all hours of the day. Therefore I need to have the flexibility to do coursework in the early morning or late at night. The online option opened up more programs across the nation, and allows me to work remotely from anywhere.

My next necessity was the organization staff’s support service and desire to see me succeed. I interviewed at several colleges. Many did not want to speak with me until I had placed an application and paid the money to have the conversation. However, I wanted to interview them just as I would a job or an organization I want to dedicate time and money to. I wanted to ensure that not only was I a good fit for their program, but that they were a good fit for me as an individual. So when I finally found the college I chose, I really appreciated them taking the time to talk with me, look at what I had to offer from my experience, and dive in-depth on how I would fit into their system and program. I valued when the recruiters and advisors were willing to send me information and follow ups on conversations. It felt wonderful to have them treat me like a person and become vested in my future. It showed me they had integrity and were completely honest with my individual success. It made me feel like they wanted to help me get the most out of their school and take my academic success to the highest levels.

My last criteria was how prestigious the program in the field that I wanted to work in. I looked at the awards they won throughout the years for their program. I looked at the coursework and the certifications that would either be taught or given throughout the classes. I researched their ranking compared to other programs that also met my needs. I wanted my time and money to go to a place that I would be proud to display to future organizations I might work with so they would know just what skills and prestige I would bring to their institution.
Overall, I want to be the most successful student possible while accomplishing my lifelong goal of earning a Bachelor’s degree. The criteria of flexibility in class schedule, the quality of staff in how personable they were, and the level of academic standing in the career field I wanted to go into were all factors I heavily researched before making my choice. I believe the criteria I chose will help me become the most successful student possible in the field of Cybersecurity Technology.