Decoding the Common App’s Mysterious “Continuing Education Courses” Section: A Guide for the Perplexed
“Continuing education courses” – a phrase that sends shivers down the spines of many a Common App applicant. It’s like that weird uncle at Thanksgiving who always brings up politics – you know it’s there, but you’d rather avoid it.
Fear not, young padawans! This blog post is your guide to navigating the murky waters of the Common App’s “continuing education courses” section. We’ll demystify this section, unearth its secrets, and leave you feeling more confident than a cat who’s just stolen a tuna sandwich.
So, What in the World are “Continuing Education Courses?”
Think of continuing education courses as the adult version of summer camp, but instead of learning to build a campfire, you’re learning to build your resume (or at least your knowledge base). These courses are offered by colleges and universities, and they’re typically non-credit-bearing. Translation? You won’t get a degree for taking them, but you will gain valuable skills and knowledge.
Why Does the Common App Care About My Summer Camp for Adults?
The Common App is like a nosy neighbor who wants to know everything about your life. They want to see what you’ve been up to outside of the traditional classroom setting. Did you take a summer course in coding? Did you spend your afternoons learning how to speak Mandarin? Did you get certified in something completely random, like “Professional Cheese Tasting?” The Common App wants to know!
The Difference Between Continuing Education and Learning Credits
This is the part where things get a little confusing. Essentially, continuing education is about maintaining your professional license, while learning credits are about earning vouchers for exams. Think of it like this: continuing education is for recertification, while learning credits are for unlocking new levels in your professional life.
Are Continuing Education Courses Worth It?
Absolutely! They can boost your resume, show your commitment to lifelong learning, and even lead to a salary bump. Plus, who doesn’t love learning something new? It’s like a mental vacation, except you actually gain skills instead of just sitting on a beach.
The Common App’s Continuing Education Section: What to Include
This is where the real fun begins. The Common App wants to know about any continuing education courses you’ve taken, regardless of whether they’re credit-bearing or not. This includes:
- Post-secondary degree programs: This is pretty self-explanatory. If you’ve completed any post-secondary degree programs, even if they’re not a traditional bachelor’s or master’s degree, list them here.
- Professional certifications: Did you get certified in something like project management, graphic design, or even CPR? This is where you list those bad boys.
- Independent study: Did you take any online courses or learn a new skill on your own? The Common App wants to know!
- Professional events: Did you attend any conferences, workshops, or seminars? These count too!
- On-the-job training: Did you receive any training at your job? This is a great way to show that you’re a committed employee who’s always looking to improve.
So, What Does “Continuing Education Courses” Actually Mean on the Common App?
Let’s break it down:
- Gen Eds? No, not necessarily. While some continuing education courses might be similar to general education courses (think intro to psychology or history), the Common App is looking for anything you’ve done to expand your knowledge or skills outside of your regular coursework.
- It’s more about showcasing your interests and commitment to lifelong learning. Do you love learning about the ancient world? Did you take a course on the history of the Roman Empire? That’s exactly what the Common App wants to see!
Some Tips for Filling Out This Section
- Be Honest: Don’t try to embellish your achievements. The Common App is smart, and they’ll be able to tell if you’re not being truthful.
- Be Specific: Don’t just say “I took a course in coding”. Be specific about the course name, the institution, and the dates you took the course.
- Highlight Relevant Skills: If you’re applying to a program in computer science, highlight any coding courses you’ve taken. If you’re applying to a program in business, highlight any courses you’ve taken in finance or marketing.
In Conclusion
So, there you have it – the Common App’s “continuing education courses” section demystified. Don’t let this seemingly simple section stress you out. Just remember to be honest, be specific, and highlight any relevant skills or knowledge you’ve gained. And if you still have questions, don’t hesitate to ask! We’re here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of the Common App (and hopefully avoid any metaphorical shark attacks).
Need More Help?
If you need more information about continuing education courses, or anything else related to the Common App, don’t hesitate to connect with the JobLoving community. We’re a group of friendly and knowledgeable folks who are here to help you on your journey to college. So, reach out, and let’s get you on the right track!