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September 23, 2004

A Progress Report

A career educator, Education Secretary Rod Paige has guided his department through some sweeping changes since taking office in early 2001. And while the department has given its share of attention to higher education, its principal focus has been on reforming education at its most basic level.

Tough Journey Toward a Master’s Was Worth the Trip

The year 1997 was very important for my family and me. In January, I was sworn in as a Member of the 105th Congress. That August, I was the student speaker at commencement exercises at Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, where I was also the recipient of my master’s in business administration.

Self-Improvement of Education Benefits All of Us

When it comes to making the important decision of returning to school, money and career advancements are key benefits that are often promoted by employers and college recruiters. These benefits serve as promising rewards for individuals seeking change. But in my case, I was motivated by self-fulfillment and personal development.

On the Hill, Working Students Seek Balance

Winston Sale, a 24-year-old staff assistant in the office of Rep. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), is beginning the process of applying to law schools in the D.C. area this fall. If things work out, he plans to spend most of the rest of his 20s earning his law degree at night while keeping his job on Capitol Hill during the day.

Book Tackles the Motives, Choices Behind Pursuing a Law Degree

Eight years ago, Deborah Schneider committed what turned out to be a big mistake: She enrolled in law school.

At USDA, a Different Kind of Graduate School

Those working on Capitol Hill can continue their education just a few blocks down the Mall at an unexpected place — the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Graduate School Decision Requires Time, Careful Thought

If you are among the many working professionals considering graduate school, you may be motivated by the long-term benefits — knowing that lifetime earnings for people with a graduate degree are, on the average, 33 percent more than those with only a bachelor’s. You may need additional skills, knowledge, or credentials to advance in your current profession or allow you to change careers. Or perhaps you simply need to keep up with advances in your field. Whatever your motivation, thoughtful decision making and a little planning can ease the transition back to school and maximize your academic experience.