A Message to the Part-time Student

Now is the time! As a student you are motivated by diverse personal reasons and will be working toward the fulfillment of a particular dream. Aware that the traditional promise of economic success is not always a realistic prospect, you have recognized the adaptive resource-fullness of a liberal education; enabling persons to acquire new knowledge quickly and to interact cooperatively with others. With expectations for improved career performance and a personal commitment to self-actualization and intellectual development, you will find learning a process of growth and development.

For many of you, several years may have elapsed since the last time you were actively involved as a student. If you initially feel a bit uneasy, do not be discouraged. Your fears and self-doubts are expected. Any new venture usually evokes feelings of excitement as well as anxiety. As a part-time student, however, you are uniquely prepared. You will quickly discover your fears allayed and your enthusiasm sustained by the intensity of your inner determination and sense of purpose. You will find satisfaction and fulfillment in reaching set goals and thus be willing to make the commitment not only of time and money but more importantly of personal sacrifice and self-discipline.

This process of sharing ideas and developing intellectually challenges each student differently. You will undoubtedly find as most others have, that learning is more than just attending class and studying. Mere memorization and repetition are not sufficient if new material is to be critically analyzed and coherently synthesized. Class participation and informal discussions with professors and classmates provide an opportunity for valuable interaction. Do not graduate and wonder what happened to the "collegiate experience". Actively commit yourself to a total learning experience.

Many resources are available to assist you. The James A. Woods, S.J., College of Advancing Studies personnel, professors and fellow students are always willing to help make this a most successful and rewarding experience. We look forward to serving you.