When Timothy Adedoyin reflects on his journey in information technology, one thing is clear: the field has transformed dramatically since he first began his studies. Now recognized as a Term 252 Trailblazer at 麻豆社, Timothy is pursuing a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) to ensure he stays ahead in this fast-changing industry. Originally from Nigeria, where he earned his bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science and a master鈥檚 degree in information technology, he came to America determined to upgrade his skills and academic qualifications for the future. With ANU鈥檚 courses, Timothy has not only excelled in his classes but has improved upon knowledge he already had.

Reflecting on why he chose ANU, Timothy shared how the university鈥檚 approach to education aligns with the way he learns best. 鈥淔or someone like me, ANU is the best school for me. How do I mean? I am someone who is always self-taught, independent, and I really, really need my own time,鈥� he explains. 鈥淚 don鈥檛 want to go sit in a conventional classroom, especially when I want to work and be able to earn my degree.

So ANU presented the opportunity for me to learn at my own comfort, supervised and graded by the highest academic standards, and also be able to get experience from renowned professors and doctors in the program.鈥�

For Timothy, it wasn鈥檛 just about advancing his education鈥攊t was about finding a program that fits into his life. 鈥淪o, most importantly, it was the perfect fit for me [with] work life balance.鈥�

Timothy also shared how his studies at ANU have had a direct impact on his professional life. He takes pride in showcasing his academic journey, and even small milestones have boosted his confidence and highlighted the value his workplace places on his education. 鈥淢y signature for my email was updated with MSIT at the end. That made me feel great, so yeah, my workplace values it and I think it鈥檚 a great one for me, too,鈥� he says.

One of the experiences Timothy valued most during his time at ANU was the international student residency. It gave him the opportunity to connect face-to-face with professors and peers, building relationships and insights that enriched his online learning experience. He explains that some of his favorite moments of his education come from the residency days he attended, 鈥渢he interaction between myself and fellow students and instructors, and particularly I want mention Dr. Sullivan and Dr. Godlove. Those are two people who are a significant part of my life and study.鈥�

He goes on to describe why Dr. Nathan Sullivan and Dr. Timothy Godlove impacted his study. 鈥淒r. Sullivan works in the industry, so he brings industry experience into academics, which makes him a very great [teacher]. Likewise, Dr. Godlove 鈥� we had a lot to talk about because his experience is from the past when he was, I think, in the military, and he鈥檚 also in the academics now. So we can relate on production, implementation of IT and its original academic aspect鈥� Beyond that, sometimes we also discuss work relationships, how to angle something, real life work relationships in class. So those discussions and the residency were actually significant for me.鈥�

For Timothy, one of the most rewarding aspects of studying at ANU has been the diversity of the student body. Engaging with classmates from all over the world has broadened his perspective, enriched class discussions, and made his educational journey even more meaningful. 鈥淚t鈥檚 the diversity and broad spectrum of knowledge that the school allows individuals to share,鈥� he explains about what he likes most about ANU.

鈥淥f all the schools I鈥檝e been to [before], they have been conventional in such that it鈥檚 been people from the same region. But ANU brings everybody from all over the world 鈥� I鈥檝e met people from Africa, from Asia, from America 鈥� all over the world. The beauty of that is a lot of these people come with their own experiences, they come with their own process of how they do things and standards. You see some differences that you can say 鈥業鈥檓 going to borrow how they do this over there, I鈥檓 going to use this.鈥欌��

Looking ahead, Timothy is focused on using his advanced IT skills to lead a larger organization. 鈥淭he goal is to be a CTO for a large enterprise. That鈥檚 the goal,鈥� he says with a wide smile. Timothy is confident in his aspirations for that role due to the education he鈥檚 received thus far in his life.

Would he recommend ANU to others? 鈥淚 would recommend it to people who are ready to put in the work, people who are hardworking鈥� It would be for someone who is determined to put in the work and succeed.鈥�

Timothy鈥檚 advice to new students is to 鈥渂e serious from the very first time. Set your goals and know what you want. Do not say 鈥榦h I鈥檝e got all the time to get up my grade.鈥� Also timing, do not procrastinate, you鈥檝e got to set a strict schedule鈥� And most importantly, I would also encourage that the student interact with others and also don鈥檛 just read the book to pass, think of how you can apply the knowledge, think about the ways you can apply the knowledge.鈥�

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Pro: Flexibility and Convenience

Earning an education online comes with the flexibility of attending classes wherever students have an internet connection. They no longer have to rearrange their lives to fit around a traditional class schedule as learning can happen anytime, anywhere. For working professionals, parents, or those balancing multiple responsibilities, this accessibility makes education more attainable than ever before.

At 麻豆社, our online programs are designed with this in mind, allowing students to log in, review materials, and complete assignments on their own time. Classes are asynchronous and tailored to a student鈥檚 needs. Whether they鈥檙e studying late at night after a work shift or early in the morning before the day begins, or even in the afternoon while their children are at school, online learning ensures that higher education is within reach, no matter their circumstances.

Con: Self-Discipline and Possible Isolation

While being able to earn an education from their home, a student may come face-to-face with isolation. While many in-person colleges and universities offer ways for students to connect and meet, an online education can be a solo journey for many. Additionally, students will have to be self-disciplined in their education as they won鈥檛 have the physical reminders of going to class, being on campus, or even having physical textbooks.

At 麻豆社, however, students find community they might not have if they stuck with the colleges and universities near them to go in-person. 鈥�In my class, we came in [term] together so we鈥檙e all like one big family! We all want to see each other pass, we do not want to leave anyone behind鈥� We come in together, we鈥檙e going out together,鈥� says ANU nursing student, Amanda Bailey.

Additionally, ANU students are a group of motivated people who are looking to better themselves through education. 鈥�ANU is the place for students who want it bad, they are willing to claw for it!鈥� Exclaims ANU MBA student, Kary Alicea. With our support services, like student advisors, career services, financial services, faculty, and peers, students always have dedicated people to ensure they complete their education.

Pro: Cost Effective Education

Another key advantage of studying online is the potential to save money. Without the need to commute, relocate, or pay for on-campus housing and meal plans, students often find online learning to be a more affordable path to earning a degree. Many courses also use digital textbooks and resources, which can reduce the cost of materials compared to traditional print.

At 麻豆社, online programs are designed to be not only flexible but also cost-conscious, helping students invest in their future without taking on unnecessary expenses. By removing many of the financial barriers that come with in-person education, online learning makes higher education more accessible to a wider range of learners. There is no need to pay for room and board, babysitters, gas prices, or textbooks. Additionally, all equipment that students need to earn their education, like lab kits in our health sciences courses or online resources for technology programs, are included in the cost of tuition and not an out-of-pocket fee! 鈥淲hen I started the program, and the teacher told us. 鈥榶eah you have to send us the address and we鈥檙e sending [lab]kits.鈥� I was like, 鈥榓re you sure I don鈥檛 have to pay anything?!鈥� And she was like, 鈥榥o!鈥� This is through the program.鈥� I really appreciated that, it鈥檚 really helping me,鈥� explains ANU student, Rama Alzamel.

Con: Technology Dependency and Possible Glitches

One of the challenges of online learning is its heavy reliance on technology. A stable internet connection, updated software, and access to a reliable device are essential for success. When technical issues arise鈥攕uch as system outages, slow connections, or software glitches鈥攖hey can interrupt learning and create frustration for students trying to stay on top of assignments. For those living in areas with limited internet access, this can be an even greater obstacle.

At ANU, the IT support team and user-friendly online platform help minimize these challenges, but it鈥檚 important for students to be prepared for the occasional hiccup that comes with digital learning. However, faculty also are accommodating to all the things that can happen in life 鈥� from technology glitching to family emergencies. When ANU student, Sarah Slone had given birth to her child, she said, 鈥渢hey were all very supportive, and they haven鈥檛 left me behind on anything.鈥�

Pro: Skill Development and Instant Feedback

Online learning also helps students build valuable skills while providing opportunities for timely feedback. Navigating digital platforms, collaborating through online discussions, and managing assignments independently all foster critical skills such as time management, communication, and digital literacy鈥攁bilities that are highly valued in today鈥檚 workforce. In addition, many online courses use interactive tools like quizzes, discussion boards, and simulations that provide instant feedback, allowing students to quickly identify areas for improvement. ANU鈥檚 online programs are designed with these features in mind, helping students not only master course material but also develop the professional skills they鈥檒l carry into their careers. ANU professors get back to students as soon as they need them

鈥淎nytime you have a problem, you can contact administration of any sorts and they will get back to you within 24 hours,鈥� ANU student, Harley Odom, says, 鈥渂ecause of me being online, I can鈥檛 just walk into an office and say, 鈥榟ey, I need help with this.鈥� I message and wait for a response!鈥�

Con: Quality and Accreditation Concerns

A common concern about online education is the question of quality and credibility. With so many programs available, it can be difficult for students to determine which schools provide a legitimate education and which may fall short. Some online institutions lack proper accreditation, which can affect the recognition of a degree by employers or other colleges if a student wishes to continue their education. Students may also worry that studying online will not provide the same level of rigor, interaction, or career preparation as traditional on-campus programs. These concerns make it essential to carefully research a school鈥檚 background before enrolling.

At 麻豆社, students can feel confident knowing they are receiving a high-quality education backed by strong accreditation and approvals. 麻豆社听is a member of the听听and is therefore authorized to deliver distance education to students in other states and territories which participate in NC-SARA. ANU of Virginia is accredited by the recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ANU of Kentucky听is听accredited听by the听听(ABHES). Additionally, there are specific programmatic accreditation and approvals, like from the American Bar Association (ABA) for Paralegal Programs, The Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM), The Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP), and more. Click here to read about all of the ways ANU secures accreditation for their online programs.

The online programs at ANU also meet rigorous industry standards, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of their chosen careers. With a legacy of serving working adults and a commitment to quality online education, ANU provides students with the assurance that their degree is both respected and valuable in the workforce. 鈥�I chose ANU because it was the only university [I found] that offered online ABA-approved programs听鈥� and that put听ANU miles ahead of everybody else in my eyes,鈥� explained ANU student, Kiley Crusha.

Why Students Should Choose an Online Education

Choosing an online education can open doors to opportunities that fit today鈥檚 fast-paced, technology-driven world. The pros and cons of studying online can vary, but the benefits outweigh any cost to earn From the flexibility to balance school with work and family, to the affordability and skill-building advantages, online learning makes higher education accessible to more people than ever before. While challenges such as technology reliance, self-discipline, and accreditation concerns exist, selecting a trusted, accredited institution like 麻豆社 ensures that students receive a quality education they can be proud of. For motivated learners looking to advance their careers and achieve their goals on their own schedule, online education is not just a convenient option鈥攊t鈥檚 a smart investment in the future. To learn more about our online programs, go to an.edu.

麻豆社 鈥� Be live, in class, from anywhere.

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Accreditation through ABHES affirms that ANU continues to meet rigorous standards of education in areas such as curriculum, faculty qualifications, student services, and institutional effectiveness. As a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education, ABHES accreditation provides assurance to students, employers, and the community that ANU delivers programs that meet standards of accountability and outcomes.

鈥淎ccreditation is not just a benchmark, it鈥檚 a responsibility,鈥� said Dr. Frank Longaker, President of 麻豆社. 鈥淚t challenges us to keep evolving, to listen to our students, and to lead with purpose. As we look toward 2030, our focus remains on innovation, equity, and preparing graduates who are ready to make a difference from the very beginning.鈥�

About 麻豆社
Founded in 1886, 麻豆社 is a private, accredited institution dedicated to providing accessible, career-oriented education to working adults. With programs in healthcare, business, and technology, ANU offers online learning opportunities designed to prepare students for success in their chosen fields.

麻豆社 has served adult learners for more than 130 years, offering flexible programs designed to meet the needs of working professionals. With this reaffirmation, ANU continues its mission of preparing graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in today鈥檚 dynamic workforce.

For more information about 麻豆社 and its accredited programs, please visit www.an.edu.

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At its June 2025 accreditation review, based on the school鈥檚 comprehensive self鈥慹valuation, the Commission Chair鈥檚 report, ANU鈥檚 institutional response, and recent progress updates. DEAC鈥檚 review concluded that ANU continues to meet the benchmarks for quality education and federal Title鈥疘V eligibility.

鈥淎ccreditation is not just a benchmark, it鈥檚 a responsibility,鈥� said Dr. Frank Longaker, President of 麻豆社. 鈥淚t challenges us to keep evolving, to listen to our students, and to lead with purpose. As we look toward 2030, our focus remains on innovation, equity, and preparing graduates who are ready to make a difference from the very beginning.鈥�

Founded in 1886 in Roanoke, Virginia, ANU now provides a broad range of academic programs, including bachelor鈥檚 and master鈥檚 degrees in business administration, cybersecurity, IT, nursing, healthcare management, and more, as well as certificates and diplomas in professional fields. In announcing the milestone, ANU emphasizes that the renewal underscores its commitment to accessible, career鈥慺ocused education for students regionally and online.

What this means for students:

• Stability and Confidence: DEAC鈥檚 renewal through January 2030 assures current and prospective students that ANU meets nationally recognized standards for institutional quality and integrity.
• Financial Aid Assurance: Maintained accreditation supports ANU鈥檚 eligibility to participate in Title鈥疘V federal student aid programs.
• Regulatory Recognition: DEAC is recognized by both the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), lending credibility to ANU鈥檚 distance education offerings.

This renewed accreditation allows 麻豆社 to continue advancing its mission of delivering quality, career-focused education. As the university looks toward the future, it remains dedicated to supporting student success, expanding program offerings, and maintaining the high standards recognized by DEAC.

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Colleen Morgan, a dedicated direct support professional and employment specialist, has spent her career empowering adults with disabilities鈥攐ften sharing her artistic talents by teaching art classes at work. With an associate degree in visual fine arts and a deep love for creativity, Colleen once envisioned a future centered entirely on art and giving back to her community. However, when she began to face burnout in her career path, she knew she needed a change. Colleen decided to combine this desire to help others with another lifelong passion鈥攍aw鈥攂y returning to school at 麻豆社 in the Paralegal certificate program. Her commitment, drive, and dedication to her new career path has earned her the distinct award of Term Trailblazer, nominated by her professors.

When Colleen decided to pursue her passion for law, she began by researching a wide range of schools. She needed an online program to fit her full-time work schedule and limited free time. Affordability was also a key factor, and she specifically sought out ABA-approved programs. 鈥淚 chose ANU because the program works really well with my schedule, and also it was the cheapest out of all of the schools I looked at!鈥� she laughs. 鈥淪o that was the most appealing. And it was ABA-[approved]!鈥� ANU hit every need she had for her higher education.

Starting the Paralegal program opened new ways of thinking for Colleen that deeply engaged her natural curiosity. 鈥淚t definitely鈥揑 feel like once I started the Paralegal program, especially when I started legal research and writing, it kind of changed the way my brain dissected things, like the way I think. I find that really interesting鈥� I am naturally a very curious person, I like to research and learn things. And I know that鈥檚 a lot of what Paralegals do, researching and learning about the different laws.鈥� Reflecting on her Legal Research and Writing course, she shared:

鈥淭he way that Wendy taught us to look at the law and break it down and then look at the issue and break it down into facts, and then apply the two, at first it was really, really difficult. I felt like the class broke my brain 鈥� but in a good way!鈥� She laughs. 鈥淚t kind of rewired it, and I think that getting that skill of research and writing can carry on to all facets of your life鈥� it only helps me be a better writer. It鈥檚 going to help me wherever I go after [ANU].鈥�

Colleen鈥檚 curiosity only deepened as she explored specialized areas of law. 鈥淪heri [Clark] actually recommended me to take [Estate Administration and Elder Law].鈥� She has discovered a strong connection between laws protecting the elderly and those covering people with disabilities, saying, 鈥淎 lot of the laws that cover the elderly also cover people with disabilities, so I am learning a lot about that鈥� I am getting more information and learning more about the processes and what it looks like, and I find that interesting!鈥�

Colleen also spoke warmly about the professors who have shaped her experience. She admires Dean Wendy Notz鈥檚 teaching style: 鈥淚 liked that she was 鈥� she鈥檚 a little bit of a stricter grader, but I really appreciate professors that don鈥檛 let students take the easy way out. I like them to challenge me鈥� I like to try to work through something and figure it out. And that way, when I do figure it out, I feel a lot better, and I feel more prepared when I do go out in the field. I felt like I learned a lot from Wendy and she鈥檚 an amazing professor.鈥� She also appreciated Sheri Clark鈥檚 genuine care and connection with her students, as mentioned previously with her Elder Law class. 鈥淚 can see that she genuinely cares for all of her students. I like that she can remember little things about students. I feel like when I would take Sheri鈥檚 classes, it felt more like a little family rather than a class while still learning a lot from her 鈥� which is nice!鈥�

Her future goals include becoming certified both as a paralegal and as a notary. Additionally, her biggest goal is to go back to school to earn her bachelor鈥檚 degree and then go to law school. 鈥淚t was always in the back of my mind, if art didn鈥檛 work out, I would really like to be a lawyer,鈥� she muses. 鈥淪eeing the injustices that happen to people, I want to fight for people, and I think a way to do that is being a lawyer鈥� I want to work with people who are underserved in the community.鈥� Her love of education and learning only boosts her desire to achieve her goals.

Would she recommend ANU for higher education? She answers:

鈥淵eah, I would recommend ANU to a friend looking to be a paralegal. I think ANU is really great with working with adults who work full time鈥� And I think that鈥檚 hard to find 鈥� a school that you like that also works with your schedule. And also, it鈥檚 very affordable!鈥�

Her advice to new students is to get a physical planner. Writing down assignments, due dates, and readings helps her stay on track. 鈥淎lso have [at least one] day in your week where you are setting aside time for schoolwork. That day for me was Tuesday because Tuesdays I got out of work early and didn鈥檛 have any classes. So after work, I would come home, sit at my desk, and either read, or do my discussion posts, or get assignments done 鈥� that was my day to work,鈥� she explains, as these two tips helped her succeed in her classes.

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Earning your degree online 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 mean you have to wait until after graduation to start building your resume. In fact, with the right strategies and support, you can gain hands-on experience, expand your professional network, and start making an impact in your field鈥�right now. We can walk you through the practical and proven ways our students gain real-world experience while studying with us.

1. Pursue Internships and Externships

Internships are one of the most direct ways to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting. Many companies now offer remote internship opportunities, which means you can gain experience and make industry connections without relocating. ANU鈥檚 career services team can help connect students with internship and externship opportunities aligned with their career goals. Many of our health science programs, like Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Technician, and Radiologic Technician all require clinical training through externships to give those students the real-world experience they need to succeed. These externships happen in clinics local to them!

Be proactive. Search for internships on job platforms like Indeed, Handshake, or LinkedIn, and reach out to local businesses or healthcare facilities in your area.

2. Take Advantage of Virtual Labs and Simulations

At ANU, hands-on learning is integrated into online programs through virtual labs, simulation software, and real-world case studies. For example, medical assisting students receive at-home lab kits that allow them to practice key skills under faculty guidance. This includes using a simulation arm to learn how to draw blood and perform injections. Programs in cybersecurity, IT, and business incorporate simulated environments where students can apply theories in practical scenarios. These tools help bridge the gap between theory and practice鈥攚ithout needing to be in a traditional classroom.

3. Work or Volunteer in a Related Field

Many online students are already working while earning their degree. If you鈥檙e in a job that aligns with your field of study, make the most of that experience鈥攖reat it as an extension of your education. If you鈥檙e not yet working in your desired industry, consider volunteering. Healthcare clinics, nonprofits, and small businesses often need extra support and are willing to train passionate individuals. Volunteering not only builds your resume but also demonstrates initiative and community involvement鈥攓ualities employers value.

4. Join Professional Organizations

Becoming a student member of a professional organization is one of the smartest moves you can make while earning your degree. These organizations exist to support professionals at every stage of their careers鈥攊ncluding students鈥攁nd they offer valuable opportunities to build connections, learn from industry leaders, and stay informed about the latest developments in your field. You can gain access to exclusive resources like industry publications, job boards, certification discounts, mentorship programs, and leadership development opportunities. Many organizations also host virtual events, such as webinars, panel discussions, and online conferences鈥攎aking it easy for online learners to participate no matter where they live.

Some of the organizations students can join are:

• Health students can join the American Association of Medical Assistants (AAMA).
• Cybersecurity students can explore International Information System Security Certification Consortium ((ISC)虏) or the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA).
• Business students may benefit from membership in The Society Human Resource Management (SHRM) or the American Management Association (AMA).

These affiliations can enhance your resume and help you stay current on industry trends.

5. Work on Freelance or Project-Based Gigs

For students in tech, computer design, accounting, or marketing, freelance work is an excellent way to build a portfolio. 听It can be more than just a side hustle as it can be used to build your professional portfolio and gain hands-on experience while still in school. Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer offer short-term projects that allow you to develop your skills while earning income. You can connect with real clients who need everything from website development to social media strategy and anything in between.

Even small projects count, Every freelance opportunity teaches valuable professional habits: how to pitch your skills, manage client expectations, meet deadlines, handle feedback, and solve real-world problems on your own. These soft skills鈥攃ommunication, time management, adaptability鈥攁re exactly what employers look for, no matter your field. They can lead to referrals, client testimonials, or long-term work relationships. More importantly, they help you grow your confidence and create a body of work that you can proudly showcase when applying for jobs after graduation.

6. Make the Most of ANU鈥檚 Career Services

At ANU, your career journey 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 begin after graduation鈥攊t starts the moment you enroll. We understand that education is just one part of the equation. That鈥檚 why ANU鈥檚 dedicated Career Services team is here to help you turn your academic accomplishments into real-world opportunities. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your career options or actively applying for jobs, our career services team offers personalized support tailored to your goals. Need help crafting a polished resume or writing a cover letter that stands out? We鈥檝e got you covered. Nervous about your first interview? Our team offers mock interviews, coaching sessions, and tips to help you present your best self鈥攃onfident, prepared, and professional.

But the support 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 stop there. ANU also provides access to job leads, career fairs (virtual and in-person), employer partnerships, and networking opportunities designed to connect students with industry professionals. You don鈥檛 have to wait until you graduate to start building your future. Students are encouraged to take advantage of these resources early and often鈥攂ecause the sooner you engage, the more confident and career-ready you鈥檒l be by the time you earn your degree. At ANU, we鈥檙e not just preparing you for the next test鈥攚e鈥檙e preparing you for the next chapter.

Studying online 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 mean studying alone鈥攁nd it certainly 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 mean putting your career on hold. At 麻豆社, our students are proving every day that it鈥檚 possible to gain meaningful, real-world experience while earning a degree from the comfort of home. By combining flexible online coursework with internships, hands-on tools, professional networking, community engagement, and one-on-one career support, ANU students are building both confidence and credibility long before graduation. Your education is more than lectures and assignments鈥攊t鈥檚 a launching pad for your future. And with the right resources and determination, you can start gaining the experience you need to lead in your field from day one. Learn more at an.edu.

麻豆社 鈥� Be live, in class, from anywhere.

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Laura Diggle

After earning an Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting, Laura Diggle began her teaching career at Ivy Tech Community College. While teaching, she pursued her Bachelor of Science in Allied Healthcare Management at Franklin University, which led to her appointment as Program Director at Ivy Tech鈥檚 Anderson, Indiana campus. She continued her academic journey at Franklin University, earning a Master of Science in Instructional Design and Performance Technology, and has since begun working toward an EdD in Instructional Design Leadership.

She joined 麻豆社 in the fall of 2018 as an adjunct faculty member and transitioned into the Health Science Program Chair role in July 2020. Currently, she serves as a Curriculum Designer, a position that allows her to collaborate across all programs and build meaningful connections throughout the ANU community.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, she enjoys coaching her daughter鈥檚 soccer team, tackling home improvement projects, cooking, watching sports, and engaging in creative pursuits.

Tina Ousley

Tina Ousley earned her Master of Science in Biology with an emphasis in Microbiology in 2004 and has since spent over 21 years teaching a variety of biology courses, including general biology, anatomy and physiology, and microbiology. A proud Kentucky native, she currently resides in the scenic Appalachian Mountains of eastern Kentucky with her husband, an art professor.

In addition to her work in education, she is a passionate artist who enjoys expressive oil painting. She is also the proud mother of an amazing 28-year-old son and shares her home with three beloved dogs. An avid gardener, backpacker, and hiker, she recently began rock climbing with her son, continuing her lifelong love of adventure and the outdoors.

Jean Halbeisen

Affectionately known as 鈥淢rs. H鈥� by her students, Jean Halbeisen has been a dedicated instructor in medical billing and coding at 麻豆社 for 20 years. With a total of 30 years of experience in healthcare, she began her career in a pediatric office, where she held roles in bookkeeping, front office operations, and patient/medical insurance administration. Her extensive hands-on experience with all major third-party payers, as well as her proficiency in both the soft and technical skills essential to a medical office environment, laid a strong foundation for her transition into education.

It was during her decade of work in the outpatient setting that Jean developed a deep curiosity and passion for the business side of healthcare鈥攕pecifically coding, billing, and reimbursement. That passion ultimately led her to teaching full-time, a role she considers both a calling and a privilege. Jean takes pride in guiding students through the intricacies of medical coding and helping them recognize the vital role they play in the success of healthcare facilities. She finds immense satisfaction in their 鈥渁ha鈥� moments鈥攚hen concepts click, confidence grows, and professional goals come into focus.

Jean holds a bachelor鈥檚 degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Mennonite University, a Medical Office Specialist diploma, and is a Certified Professional Coder (CPC) through the AAPC.

A Virginia native, Jean lives in Bridgewater in the heart of the beautiful Shenandoah Valley with her husband of 36 years. She is the proud mother of two adult children and a loving 鈥淕rammy鈥� to three grandchildren: a 12-year-old grandson and 10-year-old twin grandchildren鈥攁 boy and a girl鈥攚ho she fondly refers to as her 鈥渂aby doozies.鈥�

Outside the classroom, Jean enjoys beach getaways to the Outer Banks, spending time with family and friends, trying out new recipes, playing the piano, watching classic movies and old TV shows, listening to the oldies, and browsing local and family-owned gift shops.

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Here鈥檚 a look at what you can anticipate in your first few months as an online nursing student at ANU.

1. A Supportive and Structured Learning Environment

While online learning offers flexibility, that 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 mean you鈥檒l be navigating it alone. From the moment you log in, you鈥檒l find that ANU鈥檚 virtual campus is designed with student success in mind. You鈥檒l be introduced and have constant access to:

• Your student services advisor 鈥� someone who will help you plan your courses and answer questions about program requirements. Many students find success for the support they receive from these individuals. 鈥淚 always, no matter what I ask her, I understand [when] it鈥檚 on a weekend or close to Friday or something, I don鈥檛 expect her to respond. But she is on her game at all times. Any time that you need her, she will respond,鈥� ANU student, Amanda Bailey, about her student services advisor.
• Your instructors 鈥� experienced nursing professionals who guide you through course content, assignments, and clinical preparation. Most of our students agree that our professors give them the skills they need to succeed while giving them the support to keep going. 鈥溾�淪he鈥檚 very well rounded and knows a lot of things! She makes you think deeper 鈥� you鈥檙e kind of rewiring your brain鈥� like in our discussion posts, she鈥檒l ask you questions on your discussions. Just the way you have to think about it, like I want to think like her! She brings such great knowledge to the classroom,鈥� says ANU BSN student, Kylie Jett-Brown.
• Your peers 鈥� other nursing students just like you, forming a built-in support network through discussion boards and group projects. Our nursing students build a close-knit bond together. 鈥淚t鈥檚 been really great, I feel with ANU you鈥檙e really not just a number. I feel like it鈥檚 a tight knit group of people, and they make you feel really welcome, too! I went to a different college before, and it was bigger, and there鈥檚 a huge difference,鈥� says ANU student, Jimma Hall.

2. Key Courses and Core Curriculum

During your first semester, you鈥檒l typically take a mix of general education and nursing-specific courses. These may include, but is not limited to:

• Introduction to Professional Nursing
• Human Anatomy and Physiology
• Medical Terminology
• Nursing Informatics
• Health Assessment Fundamentals

These courses lay the groundwork for everything you鈥檒l do in later semesters鈥攆rom clinical decision-making to patient care planning. Expect reading assignments, recorded lectures, quizzes, interactive simulations, and discussion forums.

3. Learning Time Management and Self-Motivation

One of the biggest adjustments for new online students is managing your own schedule. At ANU, coursework is designed to be accessible 24/7, but that 诲辞别蝉苍鈥檛 mean it鈥檚 self-paced. Deadlines still apply, and planning your week is key. Your education will be dedicated so that you learn the skill to be an outstanding nurse in the field. The good news? You can structure that time around your personal responsibilities. Tip: Set a regular study schedule early to build healthy habits.

For more time management tips and tricks, check out our blog on the subject!

4. Gaining Confidence with Technology

If you鈥檙e new to online learning, the first few weeks may feel like a tech crash course. ANU鈥檚 learning platform is intuitive, but it may take time to get used to features like:

• Course navigation
• Submitting assignments
• Participating in forums
• Attending live or recorded virtual lectures

Don鈥檛 worry鈥攈elp is available. ANU offers technical support and student orientation tools to help you get comfortable quickly.

5. Preparation for Clinical Experience

While clinicals don鈥檛 typically start in your first semester, you鈥檒l begin preparing for them early. You鈥檒l learn how the clinical process works, what requirements to meet (such as background checks and immunizations), and what to expect when it’s time to apply your knowledge in a real-world setting.

This foundational knowledge helps reduce anxiety and ensures you鈥檙e ready when hands-on practice begins.

6. Balancing Life, Work, and School

Many students at ANU are working adults with families and have busy schedules. Your first semester is a great time to experiment with balancing your responsibilities. Create a dedicated study space, involve your support system, and communicate with instructors if life throws a curveball.

One of the biggest benefits of ANU鈥檚 online nursing program is the ability to learn on your terms鈥攚ithout putting your life on hold. Learn more about how you can keep this balance in our blog here.

Online Nursing at ANU

Your first semester as an online nursing student at 麻豆社 will challenge and inspire you鈥攚ith every lecture, assignment, and discussion helping you grow both academically and personally. While you鈥檒l be adjusting to new routines and expectations, you鈥檒l never be on your own. From expert instructors and personalized academic advising to flexible course access and a supportive peer community, ANU is built to help adult learners like you succeed. By the end of your first term, you鈥檒l not only have a strong grasp of foundational nursing concepts鈥攜ou鈥檒l also gain the confidence, discipline, and momentum to thrive throughout the rest of the program. If you’re ready to take control of your future without putting your life on hold, check out 麻豆社鈥檚 online BSN program and take that first bold step toward becoming the nurse you鈥檙e meant to be.

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