Cherrie Buscher, BSBA
School of Education
Master of Education - Curriculum and Instruction

After being self-employed for 35 years as a photographer and a massage therapist, Cherrie Buscher began to think about retirement. "I wanted to find a position where I could invest more into social security. When I began interviewing, I was asked the same question several times: 'Do you have a Bachelor's degree?' I had to answer, 'No, but I have an Associate's degree.' That is what made me decide to continue my education."

Cherrie enrolled in a traditional university, but the learning pace seemed too slow for her. "After attending school at a ground campus for over a year, one of my instructors told me about AIU Online. I was informed I could get a Bachelor of Business Administration more quickly at AIU Online while at the same time continuing to work at my business. So, I decided to contact AIU Online. When I discovered how knowledgeable and helpful the Admissions Advisors at AIU Online were, I found that I could complete my Bachelor's degree program in less than a year without taking time away from my business. I decided AIU Online was the right choice for me. It was such a wonderful experience that I immediately enrolled in the Master of Education program upon completion of my Bachelor's degree."

Online learning at AIU Online was intimidating at first for Cherrie, but she found that the support she needed to adjust was readily available. "When I enrolled at AIU Online I knew very little about computers. I was very apprehensive in my first class. I did not even know how to upload my assignments, but the technical support staff at AIU Online is available 24/7 and they are very helpful. When I contacted the technical support staff, they took the time to walk me step by step through what I needed to learn about computers in order to help me succeed in my classes. They went out of their way to help me. I have loved online learning at AIU Online ever since."

Cherrie soon discovered the many other benefits to online learning after becoming adept at it. "Online learning at AIU Online is convenient. It fits into my schedule and enables me to continue my business. It is also more personal than I ever imagined. The interaction with my fellow students and the faculty in live chats and discussion boards are very beneficial. The amount of writing required has helped me improve my writing skills. I particularly like the group projects because they teach teamwork and leadership skills, which is very useful in any work environment. It is more hands-on and visual than I imagined it would be. Online learning at AIU Online is a wonderful experience."

AIU Online has brought Cherrie closer to realizing a dream she had never thought possible. "I was raised in a family of schoolteachers and I have always dreamed of a career in education. I am currently employed at the Sylvan Learning Center where I teach reading and math. I may not have been able to get that position without completing my Bachelor's degree program at AIU Online. AIU Online has been the greatest experience of my life!"

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