My online university experience
The questions I get asked the most are always regarding my experience in university. To make my life easier, and hopefully help you decide if the online university life is right for you, here are the answers to my most frequently asked questions.
What university do you attend?
I am studying in the Bachelor of Interior Design Program at Yorkville University. It is a Canadian University that offers degree and diploma programs online or in-person. The reason that I chose this university was because it allows me to have the flexibility I need to be there for my two young boys. Another reason that this university stood out to me is because this online program is recognized by the CIDA (The Council for Interior Design Accreditation).
Why go to school, why not just jump into the industry?
There are lots of incredible practicing and professional Interior Designers who didn't choose to go into a secondary education program. Everyone has a different path to get to where they want to go and one isn't better than the other. For me personally, it was the right decision because I had two very young kids at home, and I wasn't ready to start working and be away from them just yet. I decided to study the skills I would need while they were home with me, and when they were full-time school age I would have the skills necessary for the work force.
There are two different programs at Yorkville regarding Interior Design. One is the Bachelor of Interior Design Degree Program, the other is an Interior Design Diploma. Why did you choose to study in the degree program? This is a question to chat with a school advisor about. The way that it was explained to me, is that the diploma program is more decorating based (Learning about paint colours, space planning within existing walls, furniture selection etc). It's also a shorter program. The degree program is more architecturally based (Learning about construction, internal systems of how a building is constructed, space planning, all the technical side of the profession along with the aesthetic side of the profession). The degree program also requires you to get all of your general study courses required for any degree, such as your english courses, etc.
I chose the degree program because I am more interested in the architectural side of things, and it seemed like the right fit for me. Again, this is something to discuss with a student advisor about at a university you are interested in.
What made you choose to study Interior Design?
After being a Journeyman Hairstylist for almost 10 years and after the birth of my second son, I knew that going back into the salon industry was not for me. I realized that design and creating has always been my passion, in any shape or form. I did consider graphic design and marketing as well. My father is an architectural technologist and my mother is a talented decorator and dedicated homemaker, so I believe that likely had a heavy influence on my choice.
How do you manage kiddos and courses?
I'll be honest - IT'S NOT EASY. It's probably one of the most challenging things I've ever done. However, it's also very fulfilling and rewarding. I do not take a full course load each semester, as I do not have childcare and I am only able to concentrate on my studies when my husband is home and is able to look after the boys. Let me tell you, it's not always easy to crack open a book and write an essay when your husband comes home from work and all you really want to do is watch a movie and veg! However, I believe it's good for my kids to see me studying to achieve a greater personal goal, and I want them to know that they can do anything. I guess the short answer is, it doesn't always feel balanced. Sometimes I feel like I'm drowning in homework, but I try and take it day by day, step by step!
Do you like the courses you are taking? Do you enjoy the program?
Um...YES! When I am speaking to my friends and family about what I am learning each week, my hands start flapping about and I get giddy like a kid in a candy shop. I am SO passionate about this industry. It's almost hard to find the words. If you ever want to get me blabbing, just bring up art history, universal design, or anything to do with architecture and we could probably chat for a week straight without skipping a beat! I do like the school. I mean, it's definitely not perfect. I doubt any university is. Some of the professors I've really connected with (Shout out to my FAV professor Amy Bagshaw, whose teaching passion matches my enthusiasm for learning).
How much does it cost to attend?
Again - chat with a student advisor at the school. I will say this - If people can drop hundreds of thousands of dollars on a vehicle that depreciates the second they drive off the car lot, you can spend money on your education and bettering yourself. Knowledge is never wasted and investing in yourself is a GREAT investment.
When will you be done school? Surely, you must be getting close to finishing by now!
Alright Karen, thank you for your question. I started the program at the end of 2017. The webpage advertises that you can get your degree in 3 years. This is true, if you are taking a full course load of 5 courses per semester and you go to school through the summer. If you can do that - kudos to you, you magical epic interior design unicorn! Me however, I'm moving through the program at the pace of a turtle. No wait, more like a very old grandmother sloth with two kids right beside her saying "Mom, Mom, MOMMY!" on repeat. As I mentioned, my kiddos are the priority, and I didn't want to miss a beat of their life so I am choosing to make my way through the program at a pace that seems right for me. This is another reason I am happy with this online university platform. It gives people like me the chance to get a degree, even if it takes 7 years!
Let's Sum it Up!
Here's the deal- it's not easy, it's not cheap, but it is so worth it. I'm happy and I know this journey was the right choice for me and my family.
I hope this helped you answer any questions you may have had! Remember, you are worth investing in! Let me know in the comments below if you have any more questions and I'll do my best to answer them.
