Kaplan University

[Gusteau]

Originally Posted by Munchkin03

My friends in student life/Greek affairs rely so much on the connections they made in graduate school for jobs and fellowships--are you really going to make connections like that at "online graduate school?"

This is a point that can't be overlooked, OP. Student affairs is a very small world, and connections are key. I am convinced that would not have been admitted into one very popular program if one of my mentors had not been an alumna of that program.

Do you have any contacts from your undergraduate program (Greek advisor, people in the campus life office, etc.) that you're still in touch with? They are a great resource for finding a good program, and you wll want to reach out to them!

[HeavenslilAngel]

Originally Posted by Gusteau

Do you have any contacts from your undergraduate program (Greek advisor, people in the campus life office, etc.) that you're still in touch with? They are a great resource for finding a good program, and you wll want to reach out to them!

I know no one at the state school I am attempting to get accepted into. However, there are non-degree classes that I can take that could potentially transfer into the program. Additionally, there are certificate programs (for like Leadership and such) that I could do and make friends/mentors/other contacts. Not sure, but if I do either of those two options (non-degree classes or certificates), I'm sure that can only help me either get in and/or bridge the "not knowing a soul at the university" gap.

Thank you all so much for your advice! So much to consider....but then again this is a big change.

[Gusteau]

Originally Posted by HeavenslilAngel

I know no one at the state school I am attempting to get accepted into. However, there are non-degree classes that I can take that could potentially transfer into the program. Additionally, there are certificate programs (for like Leadership and such) that I could do and make friends/mentors/other contacts. Not sure, but if I do either of those two options (non-degree classes or certificates), I'm sure that can only help me either get in and/or bridge the "not knowing a soul at the university" gap.

I was referring more to connections you had made as a student leader during your undergraduate days. Were you friendly with your campus Greek Advisor or Dean of Students, for example? These people likely attended SA programs that you might be interested in, and are a good avenue to start your research into programs.

ETA: I believe SthrnZeta is getting (or got) her MA in Student Affairs online, but from a traditional university. However, if my memory serves me, she also had quite a bit of work experience in higher education which is a significant difference from your situation in my opinion. You might want to PM her!