My first online course wasn't properly a course at all. It was more like an online discussion group, led by a friend who was familiar with the subject matter. Basically, he was guiding us through the classics of European literature, assigning us projects to help us to familiarize ourselves with the material. We wouldn't have actually held it is an online class except for the fact that we were also busy with our schedules. We only had time to meet about once every other week, so we figured that an online course was the best way to go.



It worked very well! We had some pretty lively discussions and got to read some amazing books. More importantly, it got me thinking more about online courses. I had been contemplating taking an online college class or two for about a year by that point. You see, I never had a chance to complete my college education, and I knew that I wouldn't have the opportunity to go back and study full-time anytime soon. An online course seemed like just the way to go, but previously I had thought that I would not be able to really focus my attention on it. Without a professor breathing down my neck and a classroom to discuss things in, I could not see the hope of sticking with the subject matter.

The online course that my friend directed, however, showed me that I was wrong. If I was really interested in taking courses online, I would be able to do anything that I wanted to. Immediately, I started to think about online degree programs. Earning a degree online made more sense the more I thought about it. After all, it would provide all the advantages of a college education without the drawbacks. I wouldn't have to rearrange my schedule, the tuition would be low, and I would still get a university degree that could help me get a better job. If I didn't like it, I could always quit after a semester with very little time or money lost.

As it turns out, that online course was one of the best decisions I ever made. Now I have an IT degree online that is opening up a world of possibilities for me. Although it wasn't easy finding a good job, after several months I was able to find one. I am making more money than I ever have before, and best of all, I get to use my brain in my work.