How taking one course paved the trail towards a grasp’s diploma

In at present’s ever-changing world, the pursuit of information is a lifelong journey, and Steve Reeves’ instructional path is proof. At 67 years outdated, Steve is an inspiration, exhibiting that age is not any barrier to studying. His story that culminates with the College of Illinois Gies Faculty of Enterprise highlights the transformative energy of training and its profound impression on private {and professional} development.

Steve’s instructional journey started many years in the past on the College of Cincinnati, the place he was simply 4 lessons shy of finishing his diploma. Life, nonetheless, had different plans, and it wasn’t till a few years later that he determined to return to academia. “I regretted each single day. I used to be mad at myself,” Steve remembers, reflecting on the years he spent with no diploma. Regardless of a profitable profession, the need to finish his training lingered.

The turning level got here when Steve found the pliability of on-line studying by way of Coursera. “I acquired my bachelor’s diploma by way of Coursera, and it was the good factor ever,” he shares. The power to work round his schedule and the acceptance of his earlier credit made the method seamless. With this flexibility, Steve may proceed his training with out sacrificing his skilled tasks.

Steve’s path didn’t cease at a bachelor’s diploma. He was impressed to pursue additional training. “I began taking lessons from the College of Illinois, and I used to be working towards my Graduate Certificates in Strategic Management and Administration,” he explains. To Steve’s shock, his work within the Certificates program may rely as progress towards Illinois’ on-line grasp’s levels in enterprise. He determined to stack his credit into the Grasp of Science in Administration and went on to graduate in Could 2024. Because of the net format, he was ready  to steadiness his research whereas working full-time as a Director of IT, a place he has held for 19 years. 

The impression Steve has made on his profession along with his training has been important. “I take advantage of what I realized nearly each day in my work,” he states. By programs in finance, advertising, and strategic management, Steve broadened his understanding and geared up himself with new abilities. “I by no means took an accounting class. I by no means took a finance class. I by no means took a advertising class,” he admits, highlighting the gaps that he’s now stuffed. At the moment, he finds himself contributing to discussions and choices in areas of his firm the place he as soon as felt unqualified to take part.

Steve’s story is not only about private achievement—it’s about inspiring others. He has change into an envoy for lifelong studying, encouraging colleagues and even his daughter to pursue their instructional targets. “I assist folks,” he says merely, embodying a spirit of mentorship and help.

“You’re by no means too outdated to be taught, and by no means cease studying,” he advises. In spite of everything, Steve’s expertise with the College of Illinois on Coursera exhibits that with willpower and the proper assets, anybody can obtain their desires.

Learn more about the Master of Science in Management.