I was recently promoted to Executive Secretary at my job. My boss is encouraging me to go back to school to at least get my associates degree in secretarial science; which would result in an additional increase in pay. It has been 20 years since I was last in school. I don't know where to start or what schools to look in to. I reside on the North side of Chicago. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
I would also suggest Northeastern Illinois University. I go there and I really like the campus. There are night classes, lots of "older" students (real adults with kids and lives) and you can't beat the price. Actually, that's the main reason I chose Northeastern. I live in Berwyn which isn't exactly close, but I make the trip because it's so affordable, and I like that I'm not the oldest one in the classes.
Good luck!
maybe check out wright community college or truman, depending on which part of the northside you reside...northeastern might have some sort of program, too...there's also oakton college in niles and north park university on the northside, as well..hope this helps!
Look into the community colleges or if you are close to Northeastern Illinois University-they are good values.
M.:
Congratulations on your promotion. You must love your job. If your boss is asking you to get a degree, for what purpose? More pay, better computer skills? You need to determine first WHY you are doing this. Also, will they pay for all or part of it? If he wants you to go, then you need to see how much they really want you as a long term employee and what are they willing to pay to keep you. You have skills that are used in so many jobs that you really need to consider if that is what YOU want to do. Whose life is this anyway?
I was in Human Resources and I took night classes to get more experience on programs such as Excel or Word or Access because I lacked them and my job required them. I am more marketable now with better skills. Therefore, I am not tied down to this job. What is it that you want to do? There are many one day courses that maybe your company will pay for, but getting a degree in Secretarial Science is not absolutely necessary unless your company pays big money for it. Most companies pay by experience and with a title of Executive Secretary, you must have some pretty good skills. I am pointing out a different path here that you need to look at first before jumping into anything. Is this your passion? Does this company offer you more growth up the corporate ladder in a management capacity? Again, what is it that you want M.? Please don't let anyone decide your life for you. You are still a mom and have responsibilities as well. If this is going to get you what you want, then go for it. There are many suggestions, but first find out what it is that you are asked to do and why. I am assuming you like your boss and your employer so what are they offering you in return??
I (actually today) registered to get my associates in healthcare at a school that will be completely online. It will take a year & 9 months to finish. I haven't been in school in years also & the thought of going has been in my mind for years now. Knowing I wont actually have to "go" lessons the fear a little for me.
Here's some info & a contact if you have questions:
Gloria Espinoza, Enrollment Counselor
University of Phoenix | Axia College
3157 E. Elwood St. | Phoenix, AZ 85034 US
phone: ###-###-#### | email: ____@____.com
Hope this helped!
Where do you live in Chicago? North, northwest, central, loop, west, south, southwest? There are plenty of community and city colleges that have programs to suit your needs, we just need to know where you live in order to recommend one!
I don't know if they have the program you are looking for but you should check out Northeastern Illinois University located on Foster Ave. East of Pulaski. I know it is a big teacher educational school but I am not sure what other programs they offer but I know a lot of mom's who are getting their degrees part time there.
You have Northeastern and Loyola nearby. You can also find a National Louis University not too far away and you might also consider online degrees from places like University of Pheonix.
I just enrolled at Northwestern University for Organizational Behavior and Management. They have an amazing School for Continuing Studies geared toward working adults and their Professional Development Program is targeted toward whatever industry you are interested in. And don't be scared of the cost. If for some reason your employer suggested going back but isn't going to help pay, there are many scholarships out there for women over 35 who are returning to school.
Good luck!
