A student interview with
Annabel Castillo, Laredo, Texas
1. Why did you choose to pursue a degree
through an online program?
The reason I chose this program was a combination
of its quality and convenience. The BU program
is ranked very high and by being online it not
only offers enormous accessibility but also flexibility.
The final decisive factor was when I realized
I would be getting the exact same degree as though
I had attended on-campus.
2. What made you choose the Boston University
online program as opposed to other universities?
One reason is the school's reputation. The OT
program is ranked 2nd nationwide. Also, you have
access to great OT faculty who are leaders in
the field.
3. How does this online course compare
with a traditional academic degree program?
Being a practitioner, I like the applicability
of this course to my specific clinical area. I
also like that it’s fast-paced with each
course lasting 6 weeks but focused because we
only have to take one course at a time.
4. How does this course compare to your
expectations?
So far, it has exceeded my expectations.
5. Are there any particular challenges
you've encountered?
Initially, the technical skills required some
getting used to. However, as the course progressed
I actually felt a sense of accomplishment in being
able to master the computer skills required. The
24/7 technical support staff were always available
to give friendly and helpful advice.
6. Do you think there is a profile that
fits most online degree candidates?
I was actually struck by our class' diversity
with regards to areas of practice, years of experience
and differing personal/family responsibilities.
If there were a profile, I believe it would be
somebody who loves being an OT and feels the need
to advance his/her practice.
7. What would you say to professionals
considering taking an online degree program?
The biggest hurdle for me was the cost. I did
not want to incur debt that would take years to
pay off. However, one has to look at the advantages
and for me they far outnumber the disadvantages.
While deciding on whether to apply, I happened
to come along a home improvement show where a
couple remodeled a living room for the amount
of tuition that I had to pay. This gave me some
perspective. For the cost of a new car or a new
living room that would be outdated in a couple
of years, I could get an education that I can
use and take wherever I may go... something that
never goes out of style
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