John Shea: Tackling Law School and Corporate America
John Shea graduated from college with high honors, accepted a job at a major company in New York, earning $60,000 a year, was offered admission to numerous prestigious law schools, and full-ride scholarships from several – all by the age of 17.
Once you’ve finished the article over at CollegePlus!, come back here to share your thoughts. We were excited to see the language of rebelling against low expectations throughout the article — as well as from John himself. Moreover, even as students at Patrick Henry, we are stoked to see the rise of alternative approaches to higher education for those who can’t afford to pay for (or spend) four years in college.
Some questions for discussion:
- Have you (or anyone you know) pursued accelerated distance learning, whether through CollegePlus! or by some other means?
- What do you think are the advantages of accelerated distance learning?
- What are the advantages of the traditional four year approach?
February 25th, 2010 at 11:34 am
I am just embarking on my alternative college degree. I plan to take the five main CLEP tests by myself before joining CollegePlus!
The main reason I am choosing the distance learning is the cost: I do not have the money to pay for normal college, and I refuse to go into debt.
Thanks for the encouraging example!
February 25th, 2010 at 11:57 am
Well if we’re all going to be earning $60,000 a year right out of college then bein unable to afford it is not a valid complaint. Live with the parents for a few years and pay off that college debt.
Accelerated distance learning, I fear, deprives the student of the greatest benefits of a college experience. If the only goal is to get the degree then it’s a great idea. But that only works for the most mature students. For most of us, myself included, the most important results of my college experience will not be just what I learn in my classes. It will not even be the piece of paper saying I have tens of thousands of dollars worth of education.
The most important thing I will have gained is the experience of knowing why I believe what I believe and what I am capable of doing. Sometimes the only way to learn that is through the years spent at college talking with professors and fellow students.
Of the information gained in class, whether over one year of accelerated learning or four years in classes, you’ll only remember a part. But the experience of working and struggling at college is extremely valuable. At least in my experience.
February 25th, 2010 at 12:05 pm
I think there is a value and place for distance learning and that each student’s situation is different. I will not present the benefits because Mr. Shea has already shown those. However, I would like to present some thing that DL cannot offer:
(1) A holistic educational experience. DL comes from a philosohy that is principally assuming an utilitarian view of education. If that’s your perspective, nor much more I can say but my argument would be that the Biblical perspective is well beyond utilitarianism. So, we want to make sure that we are seeking to make Christ all in all.
(2) A physical learning community. There are many types of community in the world. Some are virtual and others that are physical or tangible. Many students, myself included, benefit a great deal from having that around them. It’s certainly a chance for Christian students to fellowship and support one another.
(3) An opportunity to serve. Going to a traditional college provides a multitude of experiences for us to serve fellow students and professors as followers of Christ should. Had I pursued DL, I could not have ministered to students as I have.
(4) A place for mentoring. Professors and student development staff pour their lives out to fulfill a calling to serve students and they have an invaluable role in meeting with, praying with, and caring for students.
Just a few thoughts.
In the Gospel,
David
(6) Participating in school theater productions.
(5) A place to explore, network, and build relationships for the future. That is self-explanatory.
February 25th, 2010 at 12:12 pm
My brother is doing CollegePlus! and he absolutely loves it. He’s 16 and has been with CP! since October, I think? He has 15 credits already, and he’s studying for his next test. CollegePlus! has been a great organization for him, he loves his coach and the fellow students. His name is ‘Rog’ if any of you are a part of CP!
The opportunities are amazing - to graduate younger, with no debt leaves your options wide open.
February 25th, 2010 at 12:17 pm
I do College Plus! It works great for me, but you need to be able to do a large amount of independent study. I am 1/4 through college and I’m 15!
February 25th, 2010 at 12:24 pm
Wow… I have never thought about one of these programs before, partially because I have not heard much about them.
But I can see the benefits and disadvantages of it. You can definitely get into the world faster and get on a career path faster, which may be what God is calling you to do. And never having to pay off college debt is a huge plus.
Although at college, you can meet and ask specific questions of the professors that are teaching there, which may be more advantageous when you ask them in person rather than otherwise. Also, some colleges may be more prestigeous than some other programs like this, although those will probably be few and far between. Also, a few small public universities may offer lower prices, which ultimately leads to saving money along with scholarships.
Although its all about where God is calling you to go. And that’s what truly matters.
February 25th, 2010 at 12:48 pm
I have considered CollegePlus!, especially upon hearing John’s story. However, my hard college choice may be Oxford
February 25th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
What a neat story. There are definitely benefits to graduating early. Although I was on track to do so, I instead decided to take a semester off in the middle of high school and live in Kenya with my family, also my last year is now really light and I am able to volunteer in many different avenues and gain lots of life experience!
Although I done the traditional four years (in an out of the box way), I have graduated with so much more life experience and education, discovered my passions, determined what I want to do, and now look forward to starting University.
February 25th, 2010 at 12:50 pm
I was excited to see this article here, as I am both a CollegePlus! student, as well as an intern at CollegePlus!. I personally cannot recommend CollegePlus! highly enough…it is a revolutionary, quality program which has helped thousands of students do just what the Rebelution is about…overcoming the low expectations for youth out there.
I first heard about CollegePlus! as a 15 year old, and am now in the process of completing my BSBA in General Management…as an 18 year old. This has taken a lot of hard work, but it has also been very rewarding. My end result will be a fully-accredited college degree completed as an 18 year old, for a total of a few thousand dollars. The benefits that this has and will continue to give me are hard to imagine.
For those who want to learn more, feel free to check out the CollegePlus! website: http://www.collegeplus.org. Also, feel free to watch some student produced videos here: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=3F62DE1B5CEF06CB
February 25th, 2010 at 1:18 pm
This is a great article! I did the same thing. I graduated at 18 with my Bachelor’s from Charter Oak State College. I thought about doing CollegePlus but realized I could do almost the same thing without their help.
I spent $5,500 and a year on studies. I’ve never regretted it. I’m now working on my Masters degree.
As a minimum people should consider taking CLEP tests, because most colleges will accept them - and you can save some money!
February 25th, 2010 at 1:23 pm
I haven’t done College Plus myself, but in November 2008 my brother started with the program. He has since finished the CP side of it, and is now in the midst of finishing earning his credits through Thomas Edison. He is due to graduate in the next two months. In all, I think the program (with costs at Thomas Edison included) cost under or just at $15,000, less than you would pay for one year of study at most universities. He has also completed everything in a year and a half, which I know makes him very excited. Although I haven’t felt led to pursue this path personally, I can say that I know it has worked for him, and both he and my parents are extremely happy with the entire experience. =)
February 25th, 2010 at 1:27 pm
that’s pretty cool — I want to start looking at this, ’cause it looks like it could save me a bunch of trouble later
how odes it really work ??
February 25th, 2010 at 1:36 pm
It seems like the advantages people usually tell me about regarding traditional college are pretty similar to those listed by proponents of public school or private school (versus homeschooling) — the social aspect, how it will look on a resume, etc. That would definitely be the easy route for me, although I know it is the more difficult route for others for various reasons.
I think there are a lot of advantages to distance learning or other alternative ways to approach higher education. I finished school at 13, but state laws wouldn’t allow me to take the GED until I was 16, so I studied music and art via private lessons and worked on writing and illustrating a couple books of poetry, then began community college at 15 (they interviewed me and allowed me then because I was almost 16 and wasn’t allowed to take my GED anyhow).
However, after trying a couple classes, I decided to go back to homeschooling myself, basically just buying the textbooks and materials and throwing in some additional means of learning for things like history or foreign language studies. It definitely takes more discipline. But it’s given me more time to study the things I need (without wasting time on things I don’t need) and start in on my career as a writer amidst my studies.
My mom did similarly, although she obtained a necessary degree from the local community college, by simply buying the textbooks for her college courses and taking the tests instead of attending the classes, saving several months and several thousands of dollars, and going on to earn more than her older brother who attended an expensive private school.
February 25th, 2010 at 1:57 pm
I haven’t done CollegePlus, but I’ve done something similar, called the Post-Secondary Enrollment Option (PSEO) here in Minnesota. For PSEO, high school students actually go to the colleges and take classes in addition to their high school classes. In my case, I started a few months before my sixteenth birthday and did ALL college classes, racking up 15 credits last semester with a 4.0 and taking on another 15 this semester!
I think it’s a great choice, and the most obvious reason is the large amount of money that it saves. More than that, I feel that it really helped me (a homeschooler) mature. I believe the advantage to waiting and taking your four years at the “normal” college age is an increased maturity, and a little phycological aspect of “brain development.”
Camden
February 25th, 2010 at 2:07 pm
@Abby The best way to find out how it all works is to fill out an information request on the CollegePlus! website.
February 25th, 2010 at 2:18 pm
I’m both a student with CollegePlus! and an advisor for their Prep program (kind of an introductory course easing students into CLEP testing and study skills.) All through high school I had planned on doing the traditional 4 years in college, but God had other plans
For me, the beauty of CollegePlus! is getting to tailor-make my college education to fit my own passions and interests. I haven’t had to spend hours and hours (as well as hundreds and thousands of dollars) on general ed. subjects that have very little to do with my major (English). What I will be able to do is spend my time and money on really digging deep into English literature and taking classes from at least three different schools, both online and on-campus. I feel like American culture is slowly waking up to the fact that there are more options for higher education than going to school for four (or five, or six) years to earn a degree (and very often graduating with a huge amount of debt) and CollegePlus! is definitely helping to lead the way in guiding students through the many alternate possibilities and paths towards a degree.
February 25th, 2010 at 2:31 pm
I just entered the CP essay contest. Did not win
but I entered. I find it really funny that you posted this right after the winners were announced. 
February 25th, 2010 at 2:33 pm
I used to laugh at the idea of accelerated distance learning, but I stumbled into it anyway! I’m 17 and will soon be 3/4 of the way done with my degree. A lot of people I know have been doing CP, but I’ve been going a slightly different route: a mix of distance ed classes, on-campus classes, and CLEPs. I’m mostly accelerating because it’s cheaper (hopefully no debts, yay!), a productive challenge, and a head start if you want to go on to grad school. I don’t really like the idea of all online because my experience on a college campus has helped me to grow in my faith, mature socially, and talk in-person with professors. But I definitely don’t think the four-year plan is necessary. Then again, finishing college at 18 isn’t for everyone either. The main thing is just following where God leads and striving to glorify Him wherever that is!
February 25th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
Sweet! I started college work, even thought I’m in the tenth grade… and I got quite a few credits too…
But I’m now changing my “future plans” because I want to be a missionary; I’m now focused on other things.
But hey, that’s definitely cool!
February 25th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
If CollegePlus had my degree, I’d probably go through them. As it is, I go to a local public university.
February 25th, 2010 at 2:59 pm
This is all so insanely inspiring. Rebelutionaries, thank you for always pushing me and reminding me of the heights we can seize, of the things we can do to the glory of our King!
February 25th, 2010 at 3:09 pm
I attended and graduated from Verity Institute in 2008 with my BS in Business. Verity is a Christian accelerated learning campus (that CP! is similar to) that has both an onsite campus program and a distance program. I loved the time I spent there, the instruction in the Word and God I received and the friends I made. Better yet, I’m able to graduate from college debt free!
The low cost and Christian environment were two of the greatest factors that led my parents and I do decide that I should go to Verity.
One of the advantages to accelerated learning is just that: it’s accelerated. For people who are interested in getting college done and moving on in life, it’s perfect.
The one area that accelerated programs fall short is classroom application of concepts learned. 4-year colleges take things at a slower pace, but allow for more time to really let the ideas and things learned sink in.
For anyone interested, visit some of these sites a learn a little about accelerated learning, and how it’s possible:
http://www.collegeboard.com/clep
http://www.verityinstitute.com
http://www.getcollegecredit.com
February 25th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Stories like this used to seem too good to be true, but accelerated distance learning actually works for normal, average people! I am currently a CollegePlus! student and will have a BA in English by the end of the year — only about two years after I began. To me, distance learning meant staying involved in my family and church. I am able to live in the “real world” of family, work, and community. Of course, the low cost was a draw as well. I would not have been able to afford a traditional college education, and going into debt was never an option for me. With CollegePlus! I am able to work a part time job and pay for my own education — while still finishing a degree in less time than the traditional route would take. I feel that God directed me to CollegePlus! and I am so thankful! It has allowed me opportunities I could never have dreamed up for myself.
February 25th, 2010 at 3:25 pm
Thanx Jason
I am going to take a history CLEP test possibly later this year - and i was SO thankful to find that they had practice tests. Just a general question for anyone whose taken a CLEP test:
Is it short answer questions, essay answers, or multiple choice? I’m kind of nervose
February 25th, 2010 at 3:39 pm
I started College Plus! a little later than most of their students. I had already spent a year at a Christian college and loved it! However, I realized that in order to return I’d have to take at least a year off to work if I was to avoid going into debt. It was that summer that I discovered College Plus through Vision Forum. I have never regretted my switch to the accelerated distance learning route to an accredited bachelor’s degree. Not only am I working full time, but I’m able to excel at a quicker rate then other students. At the pace I’m going, I should be graduating next year after only 2 1/2 years with the program…plus I’ll be completely debt free! That is just one of the many benefits that I have discovered through the program. I have become great friends with my CP! coach and relish the community of students that I’ve gotten to know this past year…several of them have grown to be some of my best friends. I’ve enjoyed being home with my family, cultivating closer relationships with them as well as being able to serve in my church and community. This program is especially great for homeschoolers although it can be tailored to just about anyone’s situation. I’m amazed at how much God has used CP! to impact my life and draw me closer to Him. =)
February 25th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
I am currently a CollegePlus! student, and, for my situation, it has been perfect. I am a very independent learner, so I have enjoyed the self-paced study and flexibility. Besides the money issue, one of the main reasons I chose CollegePlus! was so that I could stay involved with my family and my church. I’ve been able to stay active in an after-school club at an elementary school, as well as serve in different programs at my church.
I think the same socialization issues that are raised with homeschooling apply to accelerated distance learning — those who want to socialize and be involved in ministries definitely can. From my perspective, it’s simply homeschooling taken to the next level.
And, Abby — CLEPs are multiple choice. Hope your test goes well!
February 25th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
CollegePlus is an excellent program! I will be finishing my degree in a total of 16-18 months. CollegePlus has done an excellent job of giving me the resources that I need to get through college. If they don’t have the specific degree that you want, you may want to check with them. They may be able to tailor a degree to help you. I know that they are really good with working with your passions and direction and helping you fulfill God’s will for you.
February 25th, 2010 at 3:52 pm
Praise God that Mr. Shea was able to do that!
I also am a student with CollegePlus, and I have to say that it is a really good idea! I do not consider the regular brick and mortar college experience to be worth the price tag that comes along with it. With CP I can do all my school work from home, I have to the time to invest in others lives and in my family, and I don’t have the financial burden of a student loan in my early life.
Hey Megan I do know Rog! He is helping me with my math right now
February 25th, 2010 at 3:58 pm
@Abby: The questions are all multiple choice. REA has fantastic CLEP study guides. An absolutely invaluable resource for the history tests is Instacert.com, an online flashcard database. You do have to pay per month, but its not very expensive, and it is well worth it! Sparknotes.com also has some great study prep material
History was one of my first CLEP’s so I was nervous too. But don’t worry, there is no need to be! Its all in your hands, just make sure you really take the time to find the right recommended materials, and study them hard. God bless!
February 25th, 2010 at 4:00 pm
CP! is AWESOME! I joined back in October (I’m the bro that ‘Megan’ mentioned) and since then, I have seen my studies improve greatly - and even my relationship with the Lord has vastly improved. It has been great to get a head start on college - while most kids are spending their last 2 years of high-school (or even their years at college) goofing off - you have a wonderful opportunity to jump ahead of the norm. It’s a cheap, fast, and exciting alternative to the normal schooling system - and you will never regret choosing to go this route. One of the reasons that I’ve heard my friends mention (as a reason NOT to do CP) is the fact that, “You’re not really around people…I’m such a people person - and I don’t think that I could live just sitting in front of a computer all day with no contact with other people.” This is NOT true.
I have made so many more friends with CP then I could have dreamed of. Everybody with CP is awesome, and they are very willing to help you out if you need anything. It is a huge benefit to be able to talk with people who have done the EXACT same thing that you have - and who are willing to help you with your studies. I have so many close friends with CP, it is really an excellent resource. I can’t say enough good about them…it is truly an amazing program.
God bless!
Rog
February 25th, 2010 at 4:28 pm
Well said Rog.
I recently started CP and I’ve taken 1 CLEP test. I absolutely love CP! It’s given me confidence in myself. I’m doing things my 20 year old friends are doing and I’m only 16! I’m not some super genious though. It is hard work and sometimes I get really frustrated and stressed out but I’m learning how to balance everything. It’s a growing experience!
Anyway, thanks for the cool story! Great job John! Keep up the good work!
February 25th, 2010 at 4:36 pm
Way to go, John! What a great example of doing hard things!
February 25th, 2010 at 5:36 pm
“The one area that accelerated programs fall short is classroom application of concepts learned. 4-year colleges take things at a slower pace, but allow for more time to really let the ideas and things learned sink in.”
@ Brian, Sir, please allow me to respectfully disagree…
I agree with most of your post - and I have heard a lot of good things about Verity. (I have a friend who attends there) However - the only thing that I disagree with - is the above statement. True - distance learning can not give you the hands-on experience that you would get, say, in a lab. However - this can be made up by attending a local colleges course - which a lot of colleges allow. When I joined CP - they supplied me with 3 vital materials. First of all - Life Purpose Planning (or LPP), Speed Reading, and my personal favorite, Dynamic Memory (taught by Brad Voeller). I know that Verity supplies LPP with enrollment - and I’m not sure if Verity supplies the other 2 essentials. (Please tell me if they do) With the Speed Reading course - I went from reading 520 WPM (Words Per Minute) - to reading 1,180 WPM inside of a day - with full comprehension. This allows me to read textbooks at over double my original speed - and as such, complete course in less than half the time. The Speed Reading course taught some comprehension, which was nice, but Dynamic Memory really drove it home. Dynamic Memory taught me techniques to memorize lists of random information (very handy for memorizing tables, and etc), taught me to not just learn something - but learn it in a way that I can remember it months, and even years later (VERY handy for taking tests…also handy for memorizing Scripture). All in all - my overall opinion is that ADL allows for BETTER learning, and advanced memory as well. Many people say that they wished they had taken advantage of ADL - because the current schooling system is messed up. I’m 16 years old - and it has allowed me to get a head start on college - for which I am eternally grateful.
Please tell me what you think…enjoyed your blog btw!
God bless!
Rog
February 25th, 2010 at 5:45 pm
Thats so cool! I am sure God was helping him through that!
God bless,
Josiah
February 25th, 2010 at 6:06 pm
Wow that’s great. It’s awesome how much stuff about exceeding expectations and going against the cultural norm was mentioned in that article, very Rebelutionish.
I think it is awesome how many people are using CP. Is CP and Christian program?
Personally I think that I would rather have an on campus education as much as possible. But I also see many benefits in getting college done quickly online. And clepping classes is a great way to save money and time. I may have to look more into CollegePlus!
Thanks for the encouraging story!!!
February 25th, 2010 at 7:04 pm
Hey Samuel, I ‘know’ you! Well, sort of … I look over Rog’s shoulder sometimes …
To those who were worried about missing service and relationship opportunities - I haven’t noticed that with CP! You will still have service opportunities in your own home and church. And, the CP! students are very well connected with each other - I’ve even met some people on CP! through my brother - they have forums, private chat rooms, they do prayer sessions on Skype - and occasionally different people host get-togethers. Yes, it’s a lot of independent study - you’re not in a classroom - but, there can be quite a bit of interaction with fellow students, if you wish.
February 25th, 2010 at 7:29 pm
This is an awsome story, Shea definetly lives out 1 Timothy 4:12.
February 25th, 2010 at 8:37 pm
So, I think there are definitely valid reasons to get some college credit out of the way before graduating from highschool. I did it. I did a dual enrollment program for my senior year of high school.
Here’s my problem with programs like this. While yes, you still do have a social life and relationships, you’re still hanging out with the same people you’ve known for years. A lot of college is about branching out, meeting new people, discovering you can do things you didn’t know you can do, becoming the person God is creating you to be. You don’t get any of that from an online college. I have done both, so I feel like I can weigh the pros and cons pretty neutrally. I totally understand what you’re saying, Megan, and it does have validity in that you won’t be isolated, but there are things I have learned about myself by being on campus that I NEVER would have known.
I have had chances to stick up for my beliefs. I have had chances to grow in my faith (in major ways). I’ve had chances to say “no, I don’t do that kind of stuff because I love Jesus.” That’s something I didn’t get while I was homeschooled, and is something that has taught me SO much about the world we’re living in and about myself, too.
So like I said I don’t think it’s a bad thing in and of itself, and it definitely has its pros, but I wouldn’t do this for my full 4+ years of college.
February 25th, 2010 at 9:09 pm
My thoughts are that a) in the public college I attend I have been exposed to so many different view points that have challenged me to take my faith to the next level, b) I have to wonder what does one do when one is earning $60,000 a year at 17? How do they handle that responsibility? and c) what is the benefit of having a BA or BS at the age of 17 when most employers can’t hire you full time until 18?
February 25th, 2010 at 9:23 pm
Accelerated distance learning. Well, I started taking extensive studies in firearms and weapons and vehicles of the military, as well as some ballistic studies of the basic compound energy projectile.
accelerated learning can greater prepare one for the future, and extensive study is highly beneficial for extended careers. But thing is vital, one can study all they wish to, but that doesn’t mean they are learning. They have to want to study and apply themselves. We have to want it, it cannot be forced upon us. And when it is, we still have to apply ourselves.
It looks like Mr. Shea is a superb example of this kind of commitment.
February 25th, 2010 at 10:22 pm
Good thoughts, Lacey. Here are mine…
a) I see your point…and I like where you’re coming from. You can get those challenging views in an apprenticeship position, though. Just by being out in, and mixing with the world (while maybe doing your job, or whatever) will let you run into multiple people who will challenge your views. For example - I do lawn care as a business. I have run into multiple people who I have had theological discussions with - and people who have debated and challenged me. This has also taken my faith ‘to the next level’. This can also happen well at a public university too.
b) It’s summed up by the Harris brothers - “Do Hard Things”. If you’re responsible enough to earn a 4-year college degree in 2 years - and all by the time you’re 17 - you’re probably responsible enough to handle a $60,000 salary.
c) The benefit of having a degree by the time that you’re 17 - is it gives you a HUGE jump-start on life - since by the time you turn 18 - you will have the degree that most people have to wait until their 25+ to get. If you finish your degree at 17 - there are 2 choices. 1) REST. You’ve spent the past 2 years of your live working very hard for this - sit down and relax for the next couple months!
2) Figure out a workplace that will employ you - and get ready for your 18th birthday - because as soon as you turn 18 and this place finds out that you have a Bachelors degree - you will be among their ‘Top-Wanted’. There is a real need and want for youthful, happy, energetic, imaginative, hard-working young people. (Look at John’s testimony of that…) If you can walk into an employer’s office at the age of 18 and show them a BA degree - you will go like lemonade on a ninety degree day. 
There is such a cultural pull to just relax, and enjoy your teenage and young adult years - so it is un-common when the world sees someone doing something OTHER than the norm.
This is NOT to say that you are in the ‘wrong place’ or anything like that. Quite the contrary! God has placed you where you are, and it is your job to shine for Him in a world of darkness. Congrats to you for sticking up for what you believe - that’s not always easy!
God bless!
Rog
February 25th, 2010 at 10:41 pm
I’m a CollegePlus student! I’m on track to graduate in June with a BA in Communications. I personally chose distance learning so that I could pursue a career as a professional ballet dancer. I am loving the distance learning method for several reasons. First of all, you can get a quality education while still living at home. You can work at your own pace. And pursue other interests at the same time. All aside from the fact that it is so much cheaper. I recommend taking a few CLEPs for everyone. However, I do not think that the getting your entire degree through distance learning is for everyone. My brothers, for instance, have different learning styles and may benefit more from a classroom. But for me, I love CollegePlus; it was a total God thing how I heard about it and though the journey has been stressful at times, I wouldn’t trade it for a traditional “college experience” (that some say I’m missing out on).
February 25th, 2010 at 10:51 pm
Good to see the spotlight on CollegePlus and the various discussion here! I’ve looked into CollegePlus, and know quite a few people doing it. It sounds like a great way program.
I did do a year of traditional college, living away from home, experiencing the social scene, class discussions and so on, but it really wasn’t the “great experience” everyone said it was. I don’t think it’s necessary to experience to become a well-adjusted adult. In most of my experience, those in class were just trying to do the minimum to get by, so the atmosphere of learning was actually more depressing - you were looked down on somewhat for being a diligent student. Though I now live at home again, my social sphere isn’t severely limited - I interact with many different kinds of people, including those of all ages, which I really missed at college. Yes, being at college did open my eyes to some things, but I definitely have people to challenge and encourage me in growth here as well.
That said, I’m not against people going to college, should God lead that direction. I just don’t think it should be what people expect everyone to do. For people who are quicker or more independent learners - a category I definitely fall into - using something like CollegePlus is a great way to go!
February 25th, 2010 at 11:34 pm
^^^what he said^^^
February 26th, 2010 at 12:15 am
I’m a CP student, but my background is different than the vast majority of CP students (and probably most of the readers of this blog). I graduated from the Christian high school I attended all my life last May, with 24 hours of dual credit for high school and college. So I know the value of the classroom experience, the benefits of peer interaction and mentoring from teachers.
I also had the privilege of spending three months at Summit Semester (www.summitsemester.com), an intense interdisciplinary academic program through Summit Ministries. I had a chance to spend a semester in classes with Dr. Michael Bauman of Hillsdale College and have philosophy classes with Dr. JP Moreland. While the experience of having excellent professors and a vibrant community is incredible, they also emphasized that education is learning how to think, as opposed to what is common in most universities today - indoctrination, being told what to think.
CollegePlus is probably not the best way to get an education, but it is an excellent way to earn a degree. Going to a top private or public university does not guarantee one’s education. One must earn his education; it can never be given or bought. Education is much more than “the college experience.”
For me, I have found that quickly earning an accelerated distance learning degree will enable me to also earn the education I need for what God is calling me to do. I’m looking toward both graduate work and on the field experience to be involved in cross cultural missions.
February 26th, 2010 at 5:54 am
WOW - how exciting to see a mature Christian accelerating at this age! I sometimes see those kids with amazing skills, and they blow me away, but for John Shea to be Christian is really exciting!
My brother plans on studying history and politics through distant education. My Mum and Josh did the math; it will save a [i]lot[/i] of money by staying at home instead of going on campus. The unit study schedule is more flexible, and Dad will be around to nut out those big issues that come up with a Christian perspective. We’re not trying to keep Josh at home and we don’t think that going to University is bad or wrong, but going through distant ed seemed a great way to do what Josh wants to do.
February 26th, 2010 at 7:41 am
Hey Guys!!
I read John’s story before..it’s really inspiring. I have to say, when I was at a SEARCH Homeschool conference in PA two years ago,and I heard one of the founders of CollegePlus! speak about it, I thought he was out of his mind. Then it began to make sense, and I got my mom to come listen. We were both stunned, and my dad thought we were going crazy because something this awesome couldn’t be true! But it is, and now, two years after, I’ve been in CollegePlus! for around 6 months, and I’m just about finished my first year of college. I’m still in highschool! That’s amazing! I love CollegePlus! so much.
My view on it is kind of that if you are smart enough to study and pass the CLEP/DANTES test, you must know enough of the material. What more are you going to learn through the college course? As for meeting new people, I have met a lot of new people, and its amazing what you learn about yourself while studying for these tests. Growing up being homeschooled, I’m using to being the unique one, so I don’t mind it here
I’m proud and honored to be a part of something so incredible.
February 26th, 2010 at 9:29 am
Just for the sake of Conversation opening: I believe that it is wrong to believe that you need to “move away from home” to go to college just to get an “experiance”. That’s pointless - it’s wonderful if you can a) do an online course, and still have parental guidance
-or-
b) go to a college close to home
The college years are just most education. There’s nothing magical about going to college. It is best for you to still be under the guidance and direction of your parents (of course this guidance has changed as you get older)
These are just some of my ideas.
THANK YOU to everyone for telling me about the CLEP tests - now I’m not as nervouse
in Christ ~
Abby
February 26th, 2010 at 11:10 am
Just because I feel like the “on-campus experience” is getting a little under-represented, I’m going to say that it does have it strong points and for some people it is a good choice. I’ve done both on-campus and online (about equally distributed), so I am speaking from experience; they both have their good and their bad. On campus, I had to learn how to deal with people in ways you don’t have to learn how to do online. Like someone else said, you often encounter people who lack motivation, who are only scraping by, and who don’t share many of the same values. It’s hard. But most people are going to encounter people like this in the workplace sooner or later anyway. I know that personally it has really challenged my faith and made me a much stronger person. For some, it might have the opposite effect. It really depends on the person.
On the other hand, in my online classes, I developed a lot of leadership skills and had to be very self-motivated. As for CLEPs, while I love that I have the option to do them, there is merit in actually going to classes, too. Yes, some of my classes I didn’t learn anything and probably could/should have tested out of, but I doubt I would have learned to pronounce Middle English or had the opportunity to engage in a formal debate of Pope’s Rape of the Lock if I had just tested out of British Lit (I’m an English major). That being said, there is something about in-person discussion that (usually) can’t quite be matched online.
February 26th, 2010 at 12:00 pm
This sounds like a really neat opportunity, but it’s not for everyone. I still really value the traditional four-year, Christian college experience that I had. Being forced to step out and do things on my own because I couldn’t run to my parents to take care of it for me; being treated as an adult in the new community I found; close interaction with peers and professors - it was a huge growing experience, and one that was important for me especially after being homeschooled. But many of those growing experiences could be obtained in the workplace instead, if you finish college early and spend those years in the grown-up world. I don’t think distance learning is for everyone (just as traditional college isn’t for everyone), but for those who are called to it and have the commitment to pursue both their education and the other experiences that bring maturity, it sounds like a good option. Spending those years building up savings instead of debt can make a BIG difference on your life for a LONG time afterward. But I also met my husband at college, so I’ll always be a little biased.
Distance learning only works for some subjects, though. You can do book-learning on your own/online, but fields like sciences, music and other fine arts, etc. require a lot of work in labs, ensembles, or other direct interaction that you can’t do online. Maybe you could get some of the book-work courses done online to save time and money before transferring, but the physical college still seems necessary for anyone called to those fields.
February 26th, 2010 at 12:11 pm
I have a friend who is doing College Plus! and she is really enjoying it. I like the idea, but for me it probably won’t work. I am considering trying to get a dance education degree so I can teach ballet, and that’s not something you can do online!
February 26th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
In addition, I think that it is important to not make the assumption that you will be able to pay off the college debt. Don’t make the assumption that you’ll have a $600,000 job and so you should go get in debt. Not everybody gets that kind of a job. Not everybody even has a job. I find it important to live by certain financial principles and not presume that I will have abundance later on when that is not promised me. I will be graduating with no debt whatsoever thanks to CollegePlus!
February 26th, 2010 at 5:27 pm
That’s a very inspiring story!
My friend is doing College Plus, and is working toward a BA in History. I am not doing College Plus, but I am doing distance learning for college. I am taking as many CLEPs as I can, and then doing the rest of my classes online.
February 26th, 2010 at 5:57 pm
Interesting discussion. I am doing something of a mix between the two. I am in my first year at a land-grant university, but am classified as a sophomore because of the 18 credits I took at a community college through PSEO’s (I was homeschooled at the time). I will actually be classified as a junior by the beginning of next year because of a summer travel course and CLEPing calculus (and because of taking 18-20 credits/semester). So, “traditional” college still allows opportunities for accelerating your learning. I could graduate in three years (or less) without too much difficulty, but have chosen to do the whole four years and earn a double major instead. That being said, some of my courses are definitely underchallenging me and my time is not being used as efficiently as it would be had I done primarily independent study as I had originally planned. (Because of my future plans, my parents and I agreed that it would be best to have a degree that would not raise any questions about the quality of my education.)
[b]Pros and cons for independent learning:[/b]
Pros:
1. You won’t waste as much time in the gen ed courses.
2. You will be able to continue the ministry that you currently have.
3. You will be better able to maintain friendships and disciple younger friends.
4. You will most likely save money on both tuition and living expenses. (Especially if you can do PSEO’s while still in high school.)
5. You graduate and get on with your life that much sooner.
Cons:
1. It may be harder to find opportunities for mentors and hands-on experience (but there are always apprenticeships/internships).
2. It may not work with everyone’s learning style.
3. There is the danger of only doing the bare minimum and not really learning much when testing out of courses. (If it’s something you’ll be needing later on, I’ve found that it’s generally best to know it forwards and backwards.)
4. Some majors may not be easily learned outside of a classroom setting (eg. foreign languages or science). This is not to say it can’t be done, but you may need to get creative.
[b]Pros and cons of traditional 4-year college[/b]
Pros:
1. You will be surrounded by opportunities for ministry, should you choose to take advantage of them.
2. You will have ready access to knowledgeable faculty who can answer specific questions.
3. There are many opportunities to be involved in professors’ research (at least at my school).
4. Scholarships can effectively reduce the cost to zero. (I have not paid anything for this year of school–but I have no assurance that this will happen again next year.)
Cons:
1. The environment can encourage slacking off and getting by with the minimum effort. (See con #3 for independent learning.)
2. Depending on the college, it may be difficult to find good fellowship with other believers. (I have not found this problem at my college, but it would be a serious one if it did exist.)
3. A significant amount of debt can be accumulated, hindering future plans.
4. It may be difficult to withstand the pressure of antagonistic faculty and ungodly peers. (This has not been a major issue for me personally, but it could be.)
As far as “maturity” goes, I have no way of knowing which approach would be more conducive to it, but I think it probably depends more on the person than the environment. Keep in mind that independent study, community college, and traditional 4-year college are not mutually exclusive options. It is possible, for instance, to take CLEP’s and PSEO classes at a community college while in high school, spend a year or two at a community college, and take the final year of classes at a 4-year university, or to take community college classes in high school, attend a 4-year university after graduation, and do CLEP’s and independent study over the summers (and probably graduate in under four years).
February 26th, 2010 at 9:38 pm
ADL (Accelerated Distance Learning) is, in my opinion, a great option! However - it’s not for everybody. For example - I am going for a BA in Computer Science and ADL has been great for that. My life-long goal is to fly airplanes. I can’t learn how to fly or get a pilots license through ADL. However - I can earn my degree and make the money so that some day, I will have the funds to get a pilots license. ADL is great for me - so that I can make money, and save it earlier than most people. I wouldn’t want a Dr to graduate all from ADL though. (Can you imagine? Picture the nurse talking to the patient…”Honey - just relax…everything’s going to be fine! The Dr has seen a procedure similar to yours on the internet”) So ADL is not perfect for every degree - BUT - how are you going to get the funds to make it through, say, medical school? If you get a Bachelors degree by the time that you graduate high-school - you will be able to get a job and make the money to pay you way through medical school…
I will attempt to give my pros/cons for both…although it’s been a long day so I’m warning you.
Bear with me…
4-year college - Pros:
Offers more courses that ADL can’t - ^^^
(That’s the only real pro that I could think of - the other pros mentioned are still very possible with ADL…)
4-year college - Cons:
A lot of wasted time.
A lot of wasted money.
ADL - Pros:
A lot less time.
A lot less money.
Gives you a ‘jump start’ on life.
Gets you better opportunities for better jobs.
ADL - Cons:
Doesn’t offer as many degree choices.
I’m sorry - but that’s all I could think of at the moment…read Laura’s post to find most of the rest of my reasons.
Congrats again to John!
February 27th, 2010 at 8:16 am
I agree that getting a college degree through a place like CP is great. I did not do CP, but kind of created my own accelerated learning degree. I went with Liberty University which offers an online BS in education. Now, one year from graduation, I am a Junior and will graduate within another year. Liberty offers accelerated classes that only last 8 weeks. They also offer classes in the summer which means I can keep going to school. CLEPs have been great and by the end I will have tested out of 30 hours total. For anyone interested, investigate DANTES and ECE exams as well. My 30 hours of tests include some of these, not just CLEPs. I think it is a blessing to not be bound to a college campus (that’s just my opinion, I would not enjoy it, but I know that some love it, and for them it is probably the right decision to go to a college). Instead, at home, I can go at my own pace, remain with my family and friends, and encounter many opportunities to serve that I might otherwise never have had!
February 27th, 2010 at 9:25 am
I have a friend who is going through College Plus and it works great for him.
Here’s the thing. I don’t either one is better than the other. If you can do accelerated distance learning (ADL), then great! If you can do the normal four year approach (FYA), then great! some people may find ADL to be better than FYA, and others may find FYA better than ADL. A lot of it depends on how you learn. For me, the FYA would be a better choice than ADL. I am not always very driven and would much prefer collaborating with other students and sitting in an actual classroom. I learn a whole lot better that way.
I think that even though ADL might be cheaper and faster, FYA has some advantages as well. I’m hoping to get into the College of the Ozarks in MO. There, I can not only work at getting a degree, but I can pay for my tuition there on the campus. Going to an actual college also provides opportunities of meeting other students and being a witness to them.
Well, that’s my 2 cents. And way to go John! You did a lot more than I can do!
February 27th, 2010 at 3:34 pm
Greetings,
I have done research into various means of education at college level, below college level, and above college level. My conclusions were that for me, with my career, college of any sort would cripple my future. Period. You can ask me more about why that would be.
However, if I was going to college, I would do one of two things: I would go to Hillsdale or CollegePlus. Hillsdale is the only real college I see any value in at all. CollegePlus provides superior education, with mentoring, with opportunities for furthering your career and ministry during and after the courses, and does it all with a Christian foundation and worldview.
It is also the most efficient means of learning I know: cheaper than college, and you learn more than college can give you. Period. No waste (except for me, because of my career choice).
I hope that helps point some people in an interesting direction.
With joy and peace in Christ,
Jay Lauser aka Sir Emeth Mimetes
February 27th, 2010 at 4:39 pm
Hey Ya’ll!
I know a guy who is going through CP right now. He’s due to graduate this year. I am planning on starting with them in a few months, as soon as I graduate from High School. Right now I am doing/have done 4 CLEP. I am planning on getting a BA in Communications. And then go to Seminary for a M.Div. I believe God wants me to be a missionary. So that is the needed route for me.
I’m very excited about going through CP so that
A. I can get my BA done as soon as possible, so as to go to Seminary.
B. I can get it down as cheaply as possible, and then go to a “Good” seminary.
February 27th, 2010 at 10:49 pm
Wow! I’m so glad God doesn’t love us on the basis of performance.
Hey guys, I’m 16 and I have my own blog. You should totally check it out! http://theriverjordan.net
Loved your book!
Jordan
February 28th, 2010 at 11:25 am
That’s is impressive!!!
I have a friend who has taken Clep and will be graduating from college about a month after he graduates from high school!!! It is definetly motivating. I am studying for a Spanish Clep Test right now. By the way anyone who is interested should check out my brothers website called Kritik. http://www.kritikmagazine.com/ It is reccomended for the college age students.
Great Article
Noah
March 1st, 2010 at 3:09 am
Thats so great! he is certainly rebeliing against expectations, I have not heard of CollegePlus before - its got me thinking about my education, I am homeschooled in GHrade 10….homeschooling/distnace education is great!
Blessings, Melinda
March 1st, 2010 at 9:54 am
I started with CollegePlus in September of 2009 and I love it. I now have 30 credits and I’m 16. I’m going through this program for a number of reasons.
a) It’s faster.
b) It’s cheaper.
c) And I can do it from home.
My family and I will be moving to Mexico this summer to start a baby orphanage. So as you might imagine we will be short on both time and money.
CP has been a huge blessing and I would strongly encourage people to look into it and pray about it. I will admit that it’s not for everyone. It’s definitely not the easiest program in the world but it is worth the work.
March 1st, 2010 at 12:11 pm
I have not personally used CP!, but I have taken online college courses, and am currently attending a community college before I head to PHC this fall. Other than course selection, I have found the lack of face-to- face contact in DL courses is a huge disadvantage. Online discussion boards are not the same as real conversation, and communication with professors is usually limited to the scope of the course. At a “real” college, (at least, at a small school) one has easy access to their professors to discuss educational topics outside of class. A community college allows you to remain at home during your studies, and credits can be accumulated during high school.
March 1st, 2010 at 1:33 pm
I started with CP! this past September, and have been loving the support and encouragement which they provide in multiple areas, through various means. I will be completing my BA in Liberal Studies through Thomas Edison State College this May, at 17 y.o. I am so excited and thankful to my Lord for this amazing opportunity to defy paradigms the way my older brother has (go, John! I’m you’re biggest fan :P). Accelerated Distance Learning has been such a blessing for my family educationally, but also continues to be a blessing as we now tackle the world. John and I perhaps would not be able to have made such a difference without such an amazing experience to challenge each of our virtues and improve our characters. I cannot stress enough how beneficial this experience has been for our entire family, and continues to be as more blessings reveal themselves or are showered upon us. Praise God for such amazing opportunity for His children!
March 1st, 2010 at 6:33 pm
That’s awesome, Monica! Congrats to you as well! That’s not common…but that’s fantastic that you are able to graduate that quicky!
God bless!
Rog
March 1st, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Wow! I was going to do CollegePlus, but they didn’t have my major. More power to anyone in this program!
March 1st, 2010 at 10:30 pm
I’m really glad you guys featured a post on this! I think distance learning is a great option! I know several friends who have been/are in CollegePlus! and Verity. In case anyone is interested, I also know of several students who are earning their degrees directly through Thomas Edison State College (which is the college most students enrolled in CollegePlus! end up graduating from) without going through CollegePlus! It takes more self-discipline to do it that way, but it’s cheaper.
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:42 pm
I didn’t do distance learning, but I did accelerate my college experience. I completed two B.A. degrees in three years. I thought I was doing well finished my last class assignment two days before turning twenty - John blew that out of the water. I was thrilled to read about him.
I definitely think it’s a good idea. I learned way more trying to speed everything up. It forced me to evaluate why I really wanted any degrees at all. Now that I’m out, I think the biggest things I learned weren’t related to the school subjects at all - they had more do with juggling all the work, making friends, and staying up tempo through the whole process.
-Marshall Jones Jr.
March 2nd, 2010 at 3:44 pm
*finishing
Which reminds me… I also learned that shipping (as in sending something out there, getting something going, taking action) is more important than perfection.
-Marshall Jones Jr.
March 4th, 2010 at 3:06 pm
# Lindsay K. S. Says:
March 1st, 2010 at 6:34 pm
Wow! I was going to do CollegePlus, but they didn’t have my major. More power to anyone in this program!
Hi Lindsay,
I don’t know if you looked into this or not, but I know some CollegePlus students who are not getting any of the majors that are on the CollegePlus website. So I assume that you can customize your own degree. I just thought I would tell you that, you could contact CP for more information I’m sure.
Samuel
March 4th, 2010 at 6:58 pm
WOW, this really motivates me!! I am planning on starting CollegePlus this July and i’m 16 years old.
March 5th, 2010 at 12:33 pm
It really depends on the person. Some people are “over-achievers” in grades while others are social. It also depends on what your goals in life, what your economic situation is, etc.
Let me explain. We are missionaries, so we don’t have lots of money, things are tight, but God always provides far more than we EVER expect =) We have 4 kids in all… Mom and Dad obviously can’t take in 4 HUGE debts for our college, so we get to pay. (trusting in God about this one =) Our family is home schooled, but we strive for getting good grades. My parents don’t put the pressure, but they encourage us and nourish us to grow mentally and spiritually and physically, etc. Thanks to that and God’s help, I will graduate in 2013, a year ahead of “schedule.” I am looking in to College plus and or other programs for saving money while getting a higher education.
I really think it all comes down to how mature you are socially and mentally. You should take it to God in prayer and ask your parents and trusted adults to pray for you.
March 6th, 2010 at 2:49 pm
[...] Click here to watch a video feature of CollegePlus! grad John Shea on the Rebelution blog [...]
March 11th, 2010 at 8:38 pm
@ Laura W. ~I love the pros and cons you outlined!! ;D
CollegePlus! seems like a great program. The biggest plus though, in my humble opinion, is saving time. TIME=LIFE.
Serious kudos to John Shea for doing hard things… I’ve been so encouraged by all the people on this blog attempting big and/or small hard things for the glory of YHWH.
Oh! and can’t wait to read Start Here: Doing Hard Things Right Where You Are!!
April 9th, 2010 at 11:12 am
Hey I just signed up for a free webinar CollegePlus is doing on Tuesday (4/13/2010) It’s about getting a job and internship. It looks pretty interesting. Check it out:
http://www.collegeplus.org/blog/2010/04/02/free-webinar-how-to-land-your-dream-job-in-a-jobless-economy
August 19th, 2011 at 6:35 am
accelerated nursing programs…
The Rebelution: John Shea: Tackling Law School and Corporate America…
November 7th, 2011 at 7:04 pm
fitness shoes…
[...]The Rebelution: John Shea: Tackling Law School and Corporate America[...]…
January 5th, 2012 at 2:36 am
Comprehension!High quality presentation competence.