part time college student

I went to a U of I campus visit program yesterday. I didn’t get quite as much out of it as I had hoped. The program was focused toward prospective freshman. I did enjoy taking the tour though, because I think it gave me some of the more basic info about the university that even as a long-time townie I didn’t know.

The most important part of the trip was the visit with an academic advisor. I explained my situation, I have an Associates and my employer is willing to pay my UI tuition. I also said I wanted to go part-time. The advisor suggested I apply as a non-degree seeking student. I was a little taken back. Don’t non-degree seeking students not get grades or credits? She went on to suggest that I take a few classes and get to know people in the department. Then I would speak with someone within that department about how best to finish my degree.

I’m still going to visit SIU and Iowa State’s Open House programs, just for fun. I haven’t been back to Ames, IA since I moved away 11 years ago.