It's (almost) all over but the shouting

[derby378]

Some of you DU old-timers probably noticed I've been rather scarce around these parts lately. I'm not quite as active as I used to be back in 2005-2009, I know, but since the start of the year, my participation on the boards has been almost nonexistent at times.

There's a good reason for it. I just walked out of the advisor's office at Richland College after submitting my application for an Associate in Science degree. At long last, I'm going to be a college graduate.

Since the start of the year, I have been tackling all the classes I needed in order to graduate with a two-year, choosing to push myself with additional science requirements rather than taking the more general Associate in Arts - which is a feat in itself. I tackled my math requirements (my weak spot) during the spring term this year with a Statistics class under the mistaken impression that Statistics was an easier alternative to Algebra. How wrong I was. The class almost flattened me, and there was a point at which I was really discouraged and depressed and convinced that I wouldn't pass, but I took a day off from work, forced myself to study hard, and took a critical make-or-break exam that night, pushing myself through the questions and essentially guessing at some of the answers. A few days later, I received the results of that test. I got a 90 where I thought I'd do good to get a 50. I was so freakin' elated, man. That's when I first realized I could pass this class. That's when I knew I could win.

I wound up earning a B in Statistics and decided to try three classes over the summer term. If any of you ever took summer term classes, you know that this is sometimes tantamount to a deathwish. For the first part of summer, I took PE and Oceanography at the same time. PE class in Texas in the summertime, especially if you're morbidly obese like me, is a laugh riot. My coach was genuinely worried about my blood pressure (which was understandable) and started me off on a light walking program, but by the end of the class I was in the weight room, tackling the exercise bike and various arm press and leg press machines. As for Oceanography, this was my first experience with a distance-learning course - no need to show up on campus for lectures. That's when you learn just how fast the pace of a summer course really is. With around half of my course work staring me in the face and only three days to go before term's end, I sequestered myself over the July 4 weekend and pushed through all of the labs, quizzes, and exams. I was a sleep-deprived basket case, but I managed to score 120 out of a possible 100 points on a group project in which I related opal formation in Australia's Great Artesian Basin to the formation of opaline mineral deposits on Mars under similar conditions. And I had just enough in the mental tank to drive to East Texas and join my folks for a fireworks celebration.

With an A in PE and a B in Oceanography (and now an unofficial major in geology, considering my past course work), only one class stands in between me and my degree - Fine Arts Appreciation. I only have three assignments left to tackle in class, one of which I'm doing tonight. I'm averaging an A in that class at present, and the remaining assignments aren't going to be that hard. So I made time to speak with the advisor today. If the degree audit committee has any questions, they can check in with my Fine Arts instructor. I've got this. No, wait, let me reiterate - after all this time, I'VE GOT THIS.

I'll take the cap-and-gown walk in May of next year, but the degree itself will probably show up in my mailbox by the end of the month, which means I can use it to start pestering potential employers for something more challenging and lucrative than the call-center temp job I currently have. It's about damn time.

I'm going to be a college graduate. Even though it's not a four-year degree (yet), it feels so damn good.

[FSogol]

1. Congrats. Great accomplishment.

Hope you consider going back and getting a bachelors.

[derby378]

5. Thanks! And eventually, I may just do that

I have no intention of using my geology experience to land a pro-fracking job, but if I gain employment that pays a tidy sum, I'm headed to the big leagues.

[tblue37]

2. Big congratulations! K&R. nt

[hollysmom]

3. congrats and good luck.

[daleanime]

4. Excellent!

[Blue_Tires]

6. epic kick

[malaise]

7. Lovely achievement

Congrats

[1StrongBlackMan]

8. Congratulations Derby!

[derby378]

9. Thank you, guys!

It's a big weight lifted off of my shoulders.

Sure, I had a career for around 12 years thanks in large part to Ginny, but that chapter in my life has ended, and I need to make myself more competitive in the job market and fight growing scientific illiteracy in America.

[navarth]

39. Illiteracy is the enemy

in science and elsewhere. Thanks for fighting the fight, and congratulations.

[Liberal_in_LA]

10. congrats

[bemildred]

11. You can do it.

[Spazito]

12. Congratulations!

Well done!

[herding cats]

13. Congratulations!

You set a goal and you have achieved it! Many cannot say the same!

[WillyT]

14. Woo Hoo !!! - K & R !!!

[City Lights]

15. Congratulations to you, derby378!

[aikoaiko]

16. Most excellent. Congratulations. And yes, summer courses are very difficult

[Eleanors38]

29. Only "D" I ever got in college & grad school was in summer.

[derby378]

72. Especially math/science courses

I was just so hungry to get my degree requirements out of the way that I looked at the Oceanography class and said "Sure, why not?" Masochist that I am, I almost paired it with an Astronomy course, but that probably would have done me in - and I'd still be working on the assignments at this very moment.

Tonight, I just completed an assignment for Fine Arts that guarantees I make at least a C in the class, so my degree is practically a sure thing once the audit committee goes to work, and the remaining two assignments for class are essentially a victory lap.

[Lochloosa]

17. Great Accomplishment...my respect.

[dbackjon]

18. Congrats!!

[sweetapogee]

19. good job derby378!

Very good job! You have the right to be proud.

I have a BS degree from way back and have been in the work force a long time. But I decided to take an algebra class because like you, math was never my thing. So I took elementary algebra at my local community college. After that I took intermediate algebra. Then college algebra and then pre-calculus. And finally stats. I would say elementary algebra is easier than stats but if you can pass pre-calc then you will pass stats. It all comes down to doing the work. In addition to the math classes mentioned, I've completed General Biology 1&2, Micro Biology, General Chemistry 1&2 and Advanced English composition.

In 20 days I begin Organic Chemistry 1 (community college night school). The goal is to pass O-Chem 1&2. After that I will declare a major and go after another BS degree. I encourage you derby to continue, try to keep going as it will be easier if you don't stop. I would also say that since you passed stats you can pass algebra. Not to burst your well deserved bubble but I would be very surprised if a BS degree in any hard science didn't have a requirement for at least general chemistry 1 which usually requires college algebra as a pre-req. Since my goal was to pass O-Chem I got all of the math out of the way first, but along the way I discovered that I really like algebra. My experience from college back in the day and as an adult in community college is that in order to pass general chemistry 1 you need to have a good grasp of intermediate algebra.

In the mean time well done derby!!!

[derby378]

22. This is all true...

...but there are some folks that won't even look at you nowadays unless you have a two-year degree.

Thanks, and congratulations on your own achievements!

[Charles de Gaudless]

20. Congrats!

[hfojvt]

21. aaaaaaaaaaauuuuuuuugggghhhh!!!1!!!

Just thought I would get the shouting out of the way.

You make it sound like an accomplishment, when my own degrees seemed no more difficult than walking to Jerusalem. Tiring, and time consuming, but the end was never really in doubt. Unfortunately my degrees have not been worth more than a bucket of spit on the job market either. In fact, for the semi-decent job I have now, I did not mention my MA on the application because I was afraid that would be an excuse to NOT hire me (forcing me to accept an even worse job).

Well, except for one decent job with the military industrial complex, which I foolishly quit, instead of accepting my destiny to be part of the war machine. Er, I mean to give great and noble service to our country and defend our freedom.

Good luck to you anyway.

[derby378]

24. Ever see AVENUE Q?

I highly recommend it.

Hang in there.

[hfojvt]

32. it's no big deal

I have, after all, my semi-decent drudge job. And I only have 3 years 7 months 9 days and 4 hours before I can retire.

Not that anybody is counting.

Some of those days are gonna be paid vacations, holidays and weekends too.

[sweetapogee]

35. again

not trying to burst your bubble or put words in the mouth of hfojvt but there are degrees and then there are degrees. If you want a job in a science field with a paycheck then you should be very open to at least a BS degree minimum. Your AS degree will show an employer that you are serious about the subject but you need the BS degree. And to get the BS degree you should make peace with algebra and also take some chemistry.

This doesn't detract from your accomplishments in any way. Oh, and if you get a chance to take micro biology, take it.

I'm not a big poster on this board mainly for the same reason you have been absent--school. I'm in this for personal enrichment. Way back in the day I wanted a science degree but faltered due to my bad attitude regarding algebra. This has been a black cloud hanging over my head for 35 years. I finally decided to do something about it. The hardest part was making up my mind to get started. This is the reason I say don't stop, keep going.

[JDPriestly]

23. Good luck. Sounds like you worked hard.

There is this myth out there about the brilliant, mega-brains who just learn everything so easily.

Don't believe it. It takes hard work and self-discipline to study and learn. Almost anyone can do it. There are exceptions, but most of us can do it if we try.

It's just a matter of working hard, getting a little success here and there, focusing on the successes and not the failure and keeping on keeping on even when you fail temporarily.

Good luck for a wonderful future. You have the ability to work hard, and that is the most important thing that you need.

Congratulations on your progress. Never let a momentary difficulty stop you. Just rethink, reboot and start again.

[redwitch]

25. Hooray for you!

It is a big damn deal you know! Congratulations derby!

[onecaliberal]

26. Congratulations.

[hifiguy]

27. Congratulations!

[Eleanors38]

28. Congratulations, Derby. A noted drop-out with a "D" in English:

William Faulkner

[WaitWut]

30. Congratulations

From a fellow Thunderduck!

Good Job!
Waitwut (the other one)

[derby378]

31. Woo-hoo!

[Sivart]

33. Congrats

Congrats.

There's a richland college in my town......are you in IL?

[derby378]

34. Texas

Thanks for the heads-up!

[No Vested Interest]

36. Congratulations! How sweet it is! nt

[passiveporcupine]

37. congratulations

This is awesome. I now how hard it is to push through, even in overload, and to just keep fighting till that good grade comes through. And you did it!

You deserve a break now to catch up on some fun and relaxation. This degree will help a lot in your future job prospects. Especially if you let them know you will be taking it further.

[cal04]

38. Congratulations derby378!!

[blackspade]

40. Congrats!

I understand the feeling.
Last Year I completed my Masters in Archaeology in five semesters.
After 25 years in my field, it was about time.

Enjoy the walk of shame! You earned it!

[ashling]

41. I'd say that is something to shout about!

Congratulations

[derby378]

73. Awwww... (n/t)

[Tikki]

42. Super Excellent Awesome.....

Many here know of the struggle and then the joy and then the relief.

CONGRATULATIONS.

Tikki

[Solly Mack]

43. Outstanding! Congratulations! What a wonderful accomplishment!

I hope you're dancing. You should be doing a happy feet dance and singing loudly. You've earned it and more!

[stage left]

44. Congratulations!

What a thrill it must be.

[asiliveandbreathe]

45. You celebrate Derby378 - truly wonderful for YOU!

The last 4 years with my son (2 years community college, 2 years ASU - his last year of college was classroom and student teaching, a long haul)- he is a retired Navy Chief (21 years in service) finally cap and gown this past May....and yes, he worked PT on a golf course in the mornings..(in AZ) - thank you GI bill..but then, he earned it...

He started his teaching career yesterday....6th grade..A whole new world teaching 6th graders - a whole new world indeed!....

Congrats again

[lunatica]

46. You're pretty darned phenomenal!

Those who go back to college are the best students of all. I was told that when I went back in my late 40s. Someone told me students like me mess up the bell curve!

[nolabear]

47. I'm so happy you posted this. Thanks for letting us share your joy.

Successes feed us all, and yours is a delight to see!

[shanti]

48. Congrats!

Good work on the stats class! I tried one myself after I transferred to Uni from my CC and ended up dropping it, it was so challenging. Son #3 (who is 33) just got his AA last June in culinary arts. He's been working for a year now as a chef (now sous chef) for a nursing home, and has his sights on a Bachelor's in Accounting, eventually to become a CPA. His self-esteem really went up after receiving his degree, but he knows there's much more hard work ahead of him. I'm very proud of him.

Are you considering transfering to Uni?

[sulphurdunn]

49. Well done.

[Hekate]

50. Wait, what? Opals on Mars?! I'm so there.....

Seriously, I am so proud of you, Derby. In my family we really really believe in education. And we believe in community colleges. My husband taught at our local community college for 22 years, and cc in another town is where I started my journey long ago.

Congratulations! Cheers! Happy journey!

[d_legendary1]

51. Congrats for real!

Especially for getting a B in statistics. Off the bat you're smarter than I am. I got a C in statistics and an A in Business Calculus (go figure).

You rock!

And Congrats Again!

[flying_wahini]

52. Way to Go, Derby!

Big Hugs to You! Be sure, on your coming job search to ask about tuition reimbursement!
(hint, continue your education - you will never regret it.)

Looking forward to hearing how it goes with you.

[spanone]

53. k&R...

[livetohike]

54. Congratulations and good to see you posting!

It's nice to read a post about some good news. 😊

[Gloria]

55. Fantastic! No matter what, you should be proud and

RELISH all the the great qualities you've discovered in yourself!!

Great job!!!!

[Elmer S. E. Dump]

56. Awesome news, mate!

[pnwmom]

57. Congrats, derby378! Going to school while you work AND getting the degree is a huge accomplishment.

Best of luck as you go forward!

[Enthusiast]

58. Congratulations, derby378!

[tblue]

59. And no one can ever take that away from you

Mazel tov!!!

[lovemydog]

60. Congratulations Derby.

That's a great accomplishment.

[rhett o rick]

61. Congrats and best of luck forward. nm

[barbtries]

62. congratulations!

i just finished 2 years of school with 2 certificates in clinical research and took the exam from SOCRA so I get to have letters after my name: CCRP.
and to think i won't be 60 until later this month! i'm proud of us both.

i HAD to take both algebra and SADISTICS too. it was easily the hardest class i have ever taken. i used to almost literally tear out my hair over that class.

[roguevalley]

63. Derby378, you are a hero. Congratulations on your efforts. Go forth and live now. :D:D:D:D

[MadashellLynn]

64. Well dont you look good

all dressed up in your shiny new smarty pants!

Congrats

[cantbeserious]

65. Well Deserved - Congratulations

eom

[laundry_queen]

66. Congratulations on all of your hard work

You should be so proud. It's not easy to go back to school, that's for sure. I'm impressed that you chose science. I got my degree at age 39. I started out with a 2 year diploma (they aren't called associate's degrees here) and then kept on going for a 4-year (my major is accounting).I graduated last year. I found the second 2 years easier than the first 2, if that helps

Anyway, congratulations! I hope you get the job of your dreams...or at least one that you enjoy and one that pays well

[LoisB]

67. Congratulations to you!

[steve2470]

68. congrats to you and your hard work! nt

[Delmette]

69. Congratulations!

One summer I took micro and macro economics. I almost did me in because I was holding down a full time job and two young boys at home. When the classes were over I was talking with the professor and a few of the other students that were twenty years younger than me. The "kids" were planning on days at a lake or other recreation, I said I was going to find a smutty novel and trash my mind. They were all shocked that a quite middle aged woman would even know about about smutty novels. LOL.

Education is something no one can take away. Sincerely, I hope all the best for you.

[Ilsa]

70. Huge Congratulations!

Be impressed that you hung in and stayed with it!

[PosterChild]

71. All RIGHT ,!! You ROCK!!

[niyad]

74. congrats!! very happy for you.

[glinda]

75. ...

[greatlaurel]

77. Congratulations!

Well done and best wishes for job hunting, too!

[L0oniX]

78. K & R just for the Bernie avatar.

[artislife]

79. I don't know you as I am relatively new

But well done!!

I hope that you find engaging, well paid and fun work. May your bosses be saints and your co workers good friends.

May this be the beginning of the best years of your life.

[Starseer]

80. From a Richland College Alumnus...

... and employee in the late 80's and early 90's, many warm congratulations! What a wonderful accomplishment!

[Paka]

81. Congratulations and good work.

I don't know your age, but I went back to school for a second degree as an older student and can say that it is scary to be pitted against all those young squirts.

[man4allcats]

82. Congratulations to you, derby!

I remember taking statistics myself. It's no cake walk that's for sure. And those summer session classes - Oh god! I did a few of those too. You have done well. Best wishes in all your future undertakings.

[merrily]

83. FANTASTIC! Good for you.

I am not cheering so much for the degree per se, though that is certainly an accomplishment, as I am for you going after something you've long wanted and feeling good about it.

Congratulations. May you have many more of these moments--and, maybe more importantly, may you be able to feel this good, even if and when something stops you from achieving a particular goal.

[dembotoz]

84. way cool

[secondwind]

85. I'm so happy and proud for you! Congratulations and well deserved!

[Gman]

86. Congrats!

Get past this then think about a 4 year degree. The sky's the limit.

[PatrickforO]

87. That's great! Good for you!

Congratulations.

[Stonepounder]

88. Congrats!!

I totally agree with you regarding Statistics. I took Statistics at Ohio State (many, many years ago!) and it damn near flattened me as well - and I loved math! It was a big class - something like 150 students started and about 50 of us were around for the final. Oh, and did I mention that since it was a statistics class the evil bastard graded on a straight curve. If we all scored 90+ he would still only give out 10% A's, 20% B's and so on.

[immoderate]

89. Tip for learning algebra: "Teach it to somebody."

And/or assemble a study group where you can toss examples at each other.

After you learn it, you'll see that you have been using it all the time.

And congratulations!

--imm

[Elmer S. E. Dump]

90. Couldn't happen to a better Bernie supporter! Congrats!!

[FourScore]

91. Inspiring!!! My favorite post EVER!!! Congratulations derby378!!!!!

[Uncle Joe]

93. Congratulations, derby!

Thanks for sharing.