Graduating from undergrad in May of 2005 was such a joyous occasion for me-- not to mention a breath of fresh air! After attending school non-stop for what seemed to be my entire life, I could finally breath easily because there we no final papers to write or exams looming over my head.
Wasn't the Fulbright intensive you ask? Well, my fellowship was drastically different for a number of reasons-- the main reason being that it was self-directed and I was responsible for everything-- from the beginning to end. (Plus, it was fully funded and I didn't have to hold down a full-time job while conducting research).
Anyway, my experiences since graduating have made me believe even more in the importance of continuing to pursue education and personal development.
I have been working as a professional here in Tokyo for almost a year-- can you believe it? (I am sure you can since it's been almost that long since I last posted-- apologies, but sometimes life makes the blog sit down for a brief minute or two.) Things are going well, I enjoy my profession and am looking forward to furthering my career in this. Though a graduate degree may be in the cards a few years from now, right now I am enjoying my life as a career-woman in Tokyo. But, I am extremely interested in pursuing a few continuing education classes while I am working to make fabulous things happen here in Tokyo.
Last week, I contacted Temple University Japan and inquired into their continuing education classes. I received their information today (only 2 days HU--hehehe). After reviewing their course offerings for the summer 2007, fall 2007, and spring 2008 semesters, I have decided to attend a few career-centered classes through TUJ's Continuing Education Program. CLICK HERE to view their page.
In addition to having an Intensive Japanese Program (NEW), the also offer several courses in advertising and branding, business communications, IT Management, and special courses for professionals teaching English in Japan.
Since the deadline for the summer semester was today, I will probably select one course to attend in the upcoming fall-- to check it out. If I like, then I may just pursue a continuing education certificate or simply sample courses that tickle my fancy. The tuition is reasonable, plus the added benefit of interacting with others in an educational setting and networking is always a great thing.
I wonder if there is a course to take where you simply discuss world events and news with others on a regular basis. Is it just me, or do you ever feel starved for an in-depth conversation with others about the world, politics, etc? haha! I should join a book club or something right? I may just look into that too!
Anyway, just thought I'd share this information. Because, up until last week-- I was kind of missing school just a little bit. So, it'll be nice to head back to the university with bigger and better things in mind.
What do you think about Continuing Education Courses? Hate em' or Love 'em?
No really, is it just me? Or did you have political/world conversations more frequently back in your home country?
I took the last three courses I needed before graduating from undergrad as continuing education courses. The key is to turn all of your assignments in on time and send any kind of thoughts or concerns with your assignments as you deem necessary.
Unfortunately, I ended up having to turn two of the instructors in for unfair grading practices to the president of the university. It's funny how one moment I could barely make "C" work but after I let the president of my university review my assignments for himself I got straight "A" for all of my coursework. With that being said, if you choose to do continuing education coursework you better be in a position where you can go through the proper channels so you can rectify any problems that may surface.
Posted by: Romulus Burnett | May 14, 2007 at 09:45 PM
Hello, I love your blog and the refreshing viewpoint you bring to your work.
I am junior in an American High School, [Michigan] and am looking at colleges in Japan. Temple and Southern Illinois [Nigata Prefecture] are my current hopes.
I lack a lot of english viewpoints on Temple, have you seen the facilities? Any pros/cons? I plan to go into International Business and/or graphics design [and Japanese].
Posted by: Thomas | May 21, 2007 at 11:57 AM