Attaining Higher Education

Attaining Higher Education is a course designed to facilitate the successful transition of active duty service members and veterans to postsecondary education, whether at a two- or four-year college for an associate's or bachelor's degree, or even graduate school. Too often, service members and veterans transition with little information, or incorrect information, about what makes students successfully realize their goals through higher education. Frequently they are left to navigate a difficult and complicated transition to higher education without robust support or complete information.

This course is designed to break down the process of transition to education and to assist service members in finding an educational program that fully maximizes their potential. The course:

lays out how to approach admissions processes to institutions of higher education
guides students through the self-assessment needed to determine if and how to apply wisely
challenges students to consider the factors which make a college a right fit for them
offers an overview of the college application process, whether at a community college or four-year college
provides a summary of the most common sources of financial aid available to many transitioning service members and veterans

From intentional decision making--a method through which service members and veterans connect their life and military experiences with a potential academic or career path--to choosing a right fit college, understanding the application process, and financing their education, this course will provide tangible ways to successfully navigate all of these benchmarks in the transition to higher education.

While this course is open to everyone, the content has been tailored specifically for active duty service members and veterans, especially those who aspire to start school or return to school soon, and higher education professionals who work to support student veterans.

What's inside

Learning objectives

General and detailed information about colleges and universities
An understanding of the transferability of military skills into certain fields
Instruction with regard to completion of
Va application forms
Doe financial aid forms

Scholarship application forms
Admissions essays
Applications
Assistance in gaining knowledge about loans and financial aid

General and detailed information about colleges and universities
An understanding of the transferability of military skills into certain fields
Instruction with regard to completion of
Va application forms
Doe financial aid forms
Scholarship application forms
Admissions essays
Applications
Assistance in gaining knowledge about loans and financial aid

Syllabus

I Welcome and Introduction

II Intentional Decision-Making

Introduction to Intentional Decision-Making

How We Choose

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Is highly relevant to those looking to transition into higher education programs

Taught by 6 instructors with a mix of expertise in education, transition management, and higher education program design and development

Offers hands on, practical guidance with completing applications, understanding transferability of military skills, and other crucial aspects of college readiness

Develops essential knowledge and skills for navigating the transition to higher education, including intentional decision-making and financial aid

Includes several modules that address common concerns and challenges faced by service members and veterans in higher education

Facilitates the successful transition of active duty service members and veterans to postsecondary education, whether at a two- or four-year college for an associate's or bachelor's degree, or even graduate school

Reviews summary

Navigating higher ed for service members

According to students, this course is a highly relevant and comprehensive guide for active duty service members and veterans transitioning to higher education. Learners particularly commend the tailored content, which addresses unique challenges faced by this group, including detailed modules on VA benefits and intentional decision-making. Many found the practical guidance on college applications, essays, and financing their education invaluable. While the course provides a solid foundation, some learners wished for more in-depth coverage on highly specific financial aid scenarios. Recent reviews suggest the course is regularly updated, maintaining its relevance.

Appears to be actively updated with current information.

"I appreciated the updated information regarding VA benefits and the GI Bill; it's clear the course is being maintained."

"The current information on financial aid was very helpful for my situation, showing they keep it relevant."

"I was glad to see the course content updated, especially the sections on application forms, which tend to change."

Offers actionable advice for college applications and essays.

"I particularly appreciated the guidance on intentional decision-making, it really helped me connect my military experience to an academic path."

"The practical advice on essays and applications was gold for me; it made the process so much clearer."

"The advice on essays was particularly strong, helping me articulate my military experience effectively on my applications."

Provides extensive coverage on college selection and application process.

"The module on VA benefits was incredibly thorough, clearing up so much confusion for me."

"It covered all the bases from choosing a right-fit college to understanding financial aid."

"I found the section on transferring military skills particularly insightful and applicable."

"This course provided me with a fantastic roadmap for my entire higher education journey."

Content specifically adapted for service members' unique needs.

"This course was a lifesaver for my transition! It's so specifically helpful for veterans."

"Overall, a very solid course for veterans; it covered all the bases I needed for my transition."

"I highly recommend this course for anyone getting out of the service and thinking about school."

"As a veteran, I found the tailored content incredibly relevant to my unique situation."

"This course is definitely for veterans, which is great, but probably less useful for traditional students."

A few reviewers desired more specific or in-depth content in certain areas.

"My only minor critique is that some parts felt a bit generic for those with complex service records."

"I expected more in-depth, unique content given it's from Columbia, some information I could find online."

"I felt the financing section could go deeper into less common aid types, beyond the basics."

"I was hoping for more specific insights into scholarship opportunities for veterans with disabilities."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Attaining Higher Education with these activities:

Organize course notes and assignments

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Establish an effective system for organizing course materials to facilitate review and knowledge retention.

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Set up a dedicated space or folder for course materials
Create a filing system for notes, assignments, and other materials
Review and organize materials regularly

Review basic geometry formulas and use cases

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Revisit geometric formulas and applications prior to enrolling in the course to fill in any gaps and ensure a strong foundation.

Browse courses on Geometry

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Make a list of key geometric formulas
Review each formula and its applications

Complete online tutorials on inverse trigonometric functions

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Enhance understanding of inverse trigonometric functions through interactive and guided online tutorials.

Browse courses on Inverse Trigonometric Functions

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Identify reputable online tutorial providers
Select tutorials that cover relevant topics
Follow the tutorials and complete practice exercises

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Form study groups to discuss complex topics

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Join or create study groups to engage in peer discussions, clarify concepts, and enhance comprehension.

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Find or form study groups with classmates or peers
Identify challenging topics for discussion
Prepare for group discussions by reviewing materials

Solve advanced trigonometry practice problems

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Strengthen problem-solving skills in trigonometry by consistently practicing advanced-level problems.

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Collect practice problems from textbooks, online resources, or instructors
Set aside dedicated time for practice
Work through problems methodically, seeking assistance when needed

Create a visual representation of trigonometric identities

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Develop a visual representation of trigonometric identities to enhance understanding and memory retention.

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Choose a visual format (e.g., flowchart, diagram, infographic)
Identify key trigonometric identities
Represent each identity visually, using colors, shapes, or symbols

Attend workshops on advanced trigonometry topics

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Seek professional development opportunities through workshops that focus on advanced trigonometry concepts.

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Identify workshops offered by universities, professional organizations, or online platforms
Choose workshops that align with specific areas of interest

Career center

Learners who complete Attaining Higher Education will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

College Counselor

College counselors, also known as college advisors or guidance counselors, are responsible for helping students make informed decisions about their education after high school. They provide information about colleges and universities, assist with the application process, and offer advice on financial aid and scholarships. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course can be a valuable resource for college counselors, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and financial aid options, as well as an in-depth look at how to choose the right-fit college for a particular student.

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Admissions Counselor

Admissions counselors are responsible for evaluating applications for admission to colleges and universities. They review transcripts, essays, and other materials to determine whether an applicant is a good fit for the institution. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course can be helpful for admissions counselors, as it provides a detailed overview of the college admissions process and the factors that admissions counselors consider when making decisions.

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Financial Aid Counselor

Financial aid counselors help students and families understand and apply for financial aid. They provide information about scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course can be helpful for financial aid counselors, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the financial aid process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Academic Advisor

Academic advisors help students plan their academic programs and make informed decisions about their coursework. They provide guidance on course selection, major selection, and career planning. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course can be helpful for academic advisors, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Career Counselor

Career counselors help people identify their career goals and develop a plan to achieve them. They provide information about different career paths, job search strategies, and resume writing. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for career counselors, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Education Administrator

Education administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of schools and colleges. They are responsible for budgeting, hiring, and curriculum development. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for education administrators, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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High School Teacher

High school teachers teach academic subjects to students in grades 9-12. They prepare lesson plans, grade assignments, and provide feedback to students. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for high school teachers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Social Worker

Social workers help people navigate difficult life situations. They provide counseling, support, and resources to individuals and families. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for social workers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Military Recruiter

Military recruiters are responsible for attracting qualified candidates to the military. They provide information about different branches of the military, job opportunities, and benefits. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for military recruiters, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Nonprofit Program Manager

Nonprofit program managers oversee the implementation of programs that provide services to the community. They are responsible for planning, budgeting, and staffing programs. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for nonprofit program managers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Higher Education Researcher

Higher education researchers study the different aspects of higher education, including student success, faculty development, and institutional governance. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for higher education researchers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Education Policy Analyst

Education policy analysts research and analyze education policies and programs. They make recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders on how to improve the education system. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for education policy analysts, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Education Consultant

Education consultants provide advice and guidance to students, families, and schools on a variety of education-related issues. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for education consultants, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Diversity and Inclusion Specialist

Diversity and inclusion specialists develop and implement programs and policies that promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace or school setting. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for diversity and inclusion specialists, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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Grant Writer

Grant writers write proposals to secure funding for nonprofits, schools, and other organizations. The 'Attaining Higher Education' course may be helpful for grant writers, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the college admissions process and the different types of financial aid available to students.

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