Cumberland County Early Childhood Educators Take Note!
Cumberland County Early Childhood Educators Take Note!
FAYETTEVILLE- Adult learners often have a difficult time finding a college that matches their needs of returning to school while balancing work and family life. Angela Worley of Fayetteville knows firsthand just how challenging the process can be, but she found the perfect match for her education with the University of Mount Olive.
Having worked for the past 20 years with all kinds of children, including special needs children, Worley had a desire to get her early childhood education degree to pair with her vast experience.
“Children are our future generation,” shared Worley. “The making, molding, and shaping of them at an early age determines what our world will be like in the years to come, and I want to be a part of that process. The convenient and flexible schedule at UMO has enabled me to manage all aspects of my life. UMO has made my dream of earning a degree into an achievable goal”
Through an agreement between UMO and the Partnership for Children of Cumberland County, Inc., UMO is offering a one-night-a-week bachelor’s degree completition program in Early Childhood Education.
According to Dr. Paul Rutter, director of the Evening College at UMO, students entering the program with an associate’s degree can obtain their bachelor’s degree in about two years.
“There is always a good time to become a college student,” states Rutter. “It doesn’t matter how old you are, what job you have, or your financial and family circumstances, there is always an opportunity for you to achieve your educational goals.”
In fact, because members of the non-traditional programs at UMO are considered full-time students, if they qualify, they can receive a significant amount of financial aid.
“Our goal is to help students find adequate financial resources to attend UMO,” states Katrina Lee, director of Financial Aid. “By combining grant programs with federal and state assistance and installment payment options, UMO makes college possible for deserving and qualified students.”
Desiree Bethea, a current student in the program, said, “I like that I am in a class with other students that have similar goals in life. I also enjoy the teachers and what they have to offer. It is a laid back but serious atmosphere. I don’t feel rushed or stressed about getting my work down and if I need help my teacher is there for me. I feel like UMO really wants me to succeed in my life goals whether long or short term.”
When asked what motivated her to return to college to get her degree, current student Loretta Munoz said, “My kids motivate me. I want them to know that education is key in today’s society. I look into their eyes and I see what potential they have. And as a parent, I want to be able to provide them with a positive role model.”
The next ECE program start is set for fall of 2016, with classes meeting every Monday evening from 6 to 10 PM at the Partnership for Children’s Family Resource Center at 351 Wagoner Drive in Fayetteville.
To learn more, contact Dr. Rutter at prutter@umo.edu or Christina Williams CWilliams@umo.edu.
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University, sponsored by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists, has locations in Mount Olive, New Bern, Wilmington, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Research Triangle Park, Washington, Jacksonville, and in Smithfield at Johnston Community College. For more information, visit old.umo.edu.
