COREY GOODMAN
University of Central Arkansas, Conway

Major: Insurance Risk Management | Hometown: Jonesboro and Ash Flat | Age: 19 | Year: Sophomore

Corey Goodman is a true go-getter. Even though he graduated Highland High School in 2016, Corey has already earned enough college credits taking online courses via Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus and the University of Central Arkansas that he’ll be a junior for the 2017-18 school year.

Corey decided to take this higher education path in order to simultaneously learn, work and quickly gain real-world experience in his chosen field of insurance. He works full time for State Farm in Highland while taking his online classes. Even though you see all the assignments online at one time, he says the online route is not as stressful because the hours are flexible.

The most challenging part, he says, is balancing going to college, working full time and trying to keep an active social life.

What advice would you give to students considering the online route?
“Don’t go to a four-year college on campus just so you can party and have a good time. Follow your dreams, but don’t waste time. Focus on your grades and school work, and get things done in a timely manner.”

ADVANTAGES
Online degree programs are more convenient, offering working students a flexible class schedule and the ability to work at their own pace.

COST
The cost per credit hour for online courses is comparable to that of a two-year college. According to U.S. News & World Report, the average cost per online credit hour was $282 in 2016, which works out to about $3,400/semester for students taking 12 credit hours.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Just like traditional schools, online programs have certain requirements, including a minimum high school GPA and test scores.

HOUSING
Since your schedule is more flexible, you might find job opportunities that allow you to get a place of your own if you don’t want to live with parents.

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