New Beginnings

I initially started a blog elsewhere but after much deliberation, I have decided to be more vigilant in concealing my identity in order to protect my family. I will follow-up later on this decision in a subsequent blog but for now, here is what I initially wrote on September 13, 2011...

Today is a day of beginnings…

• I just completed my first synchronous meeting with my professor and peers for the new course at Athabasca University’s (AU) Distance Education program.
• I began my journey at AU 10 years ago and after a long hiatus, I have decided to return to academia to complete what I started (inspired by a friend working on his MBA and by a mentor who has been bugging me to complete my studies!).
• I am wrapping my head around reading academic papers rather than business reports.
• Life-work balance now has a new partner; study-write.
• I feel both nervous and excited at the student evaluation requirements- peer presentations, ongoing discussions with complete strangers (can introverts become extroverts when hidden behind computer?), and a major research paper.
• I was disappointed that I would not have an opportunity to pursue an independent study as an elective course but I am now elated with the fact that this AU course is akin to one.
• I am terrified that there can be so many people (hundreds!) in the same MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) that is the basis for the AU course.

Today is only a beginning. Tomorrow is another day; a day of change. Change is good!

#change11

Why?

I have created this blog with the express intention to share my ongoing experiences, observations, comments, and thoughtful ramblings as I participate in a unique seminar course as a Distance Education student at Athabasca University.