This article was written by Elizabeth Porter and published by Lily Fandell.
They do not expect to learn how to drive in NC State PhD. Horticulture Science Program, but so was Kira Sims.
“If someone asks me if I can move, ‘Yes! I could say. “If it is necessary to balance work-life balance,” she said.
As she works to earn a doctorate degree, Sims appreciates the ways in which online courses have allowed her to expand her flexibility and skills. Sims is in her third year of her doctoral program, and has completed her education both physically and online.
Considering her interest in gardening science, Sims decided to accept it Assistance With associate professor Katie Jennings In the Vegetation and Vegetable Weed Science Program. Sims lives off campus to participate in this auxiliary program and takes online courses for greater flexibility in her studies.
“I decided to go back to school full time to pursue my PhD. With the intention of teaching. I chose NC State because I was able to start the program as a distance education student while working full-time. Cooperative extension, And Dr. Jennings’ program gives me an experience I have never had before. ”
Sims speaks positively about Jennings and her experience in the program.
“[Jennings] It guides their students in their projects, but allows them to conduct their own research. ” “I was able to explore subjects other than weed science, which I knew would be important for my future, and Dr. Jennings helped me a lot. She tries to give your student the best experience possible, and that was my case. ”
While in the program, Sims chose a balance between physical and online learning. She enjoys the flexibility of online learning, but she also values the cooperation of learning in person.
Adapting to the online learning environment can be a learning experience in itself, and Sims has developed skills to be successful in the online course.
When I was working with Extension, online learning was great because I could participate in class at my own pace, both identical and non-synchronized. The most important strategies for online learning are time management and discipline – being able to put that time aside to do the coursework, then you can make the most of the time you have spent, ”she says.
One of the most important skills she acquired in her schooling was the ability to balance school, work, and personal responsibilities. In addition to being a student, Sims is a graduate student representative of the Horticultural Science Academic Programs Advisory Committee and the Alabama Food Systems Partnership Working Group.
In my early career, I began to learn how to balance work-life balance. I realized that work would still be there tomorrow and I needed time for life. Knowing how to start my PhD has given me a better balance of life, school and research.
Considering what she has learned, Sims hopes to share her advice about online education with other students and online students.
I encourage anyone who is interested in learning online to start a class, especially if you are working full-time. Feel the discipline. ”
When it comes to balancing work and school, Sims suggests organizing your time wisely.
Set boundaries to set the school aside. For me, this is the weekend. I work hard from Monday to Friday to enjoy the weekends. For someone who has never worked full-time, learning to do this at graduate school will help you to keep going. ”
Sims has high hopes for online education in the future, and she wants to inspire others to participate in online courses.
“I encourage people to continue their education, even if it is not a degree. Learning is important. ” “Online programs are great for those who have not worked near the campus, and I hope they will continue to offer many courses online as a result of COVID-19 on the road.
Interested in studying gardening science online? Explore the state of NC Graduate Programs of Horticultural Sciences, Including online Teacher of Horticultural Science.
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