Simmons College

If you're thinking, "How can I possibly do this?" you're not alone. Many successful Dix students and alumnae once felt overwhelmed at the prospect of going back to school, mastering new technology, and finding the time to study and "be a student" while balancing work, family, and other obligations.  At Simmons, we provide you with the support - both  personal and academic - that you need to be successful. 

Personal Support:

The Office of the Dean for Student Life offers tailored support and advising to Dix Scholars, encouraging and supporting you as you work to attain your goals, while recognizing your need to balance student life, work, family, and numerous other obligations.

Additionally, a student support network, also facilitated by the Office of the Dean of Student Life, provides current and new Dix Scholars the chance to meet together, share experiences, support one another, and relax!

Terry Muller is the Director of the Writing Center and the Credit for Prior Learning program facilitator.  She has worked with adult learners in higher education for the past 15 years and appreciates the challenges women face when they return to college. She enjoys being an advisor of Dix Scholars and working with them to strengthen their writing.

"Simmons College can help kick start your career and get you where you want to go...Simmons graduates are well rounded at the end of their four years of study, and they leave campus ready for the world."
     - The Kaplan Guidebook, You Are Here: A Guide to Over 380 Colleges and
        Universities and Unlimited Paths to Your Future (2008)

"I am fortunate to be part of a collaborative community that embraces the school's mission to prepare students academically, professionally and for the world of work."
     - Andrea Wolf

A former Boston Globe "Job Doc" columnist, Career Education Center Director Andrea Wolf has made bold strides in expanding the role of the CEC. Shortly after her arrival to Simmons four years ago, Wolf undertook a strategic planning process to identify best practices among college career offices. Today, Simmons is positioned as a leader in the field of higher education career preparation.

Part I: Simmons Offers a Powerful Return on Your Investment
You can afford Simmons. It's true. Contrary to what you might think, attending a top notch private college like Simmons doesn't have to be as expensive as it first appears. That's because the "sticker price,"the amount we publish as the cost for tuition, room and board, and fees, will probably differ from the amount you actually pay. In the end, finding the right college--not the one that at first appears most affordable--should be your top priority.

Simmons Financial Aid counselors work with students to explain tuition, payment plans, loans, and scholarships, and help them to manage the cost of college. Our diverse student body represents a healthy mix of socio-economic backgrounds--approximately 80 percent of students receive some form of financial assistance.

More than anything, college is an investment in you. Remember that no matter what college you choose, you should base your decision on value--the combination of cost, aid, scholarships, and expected return on your educational investment. Don't sacrifice your dreams, career and earning potential, and satisfaction in life by choosing a college based on cost alone. It's your future, and you're worth it.

1. How do I apply for financial aid?
   Simmons College has a very simple process for applying for financial aid. You only need to complete two forms.

   The first is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can find this information at:
   

   • www.fafsa.ed.gov
   • Simmons Federal School Code: 002208

   You will also need to fill out the 2012-2013 Simmons College Student Information Form, available on the Student Financial Services website.

   Once your forms are received, they will be reviewed by your Financial Aid Counselor and if needed, additional documents will be requested.

Here at Simmons, we know there are a number of women working in some aspect of business who seek more opportunity for career growth but lack the all-important first bachelor's degree. We also understand that women in business are each potential leaders, but that they first need to develop confidence in their capabilities, as well as find an environment in which to "test" themselves. Simmons provides such a learning community--one that acknowledges your unique background, supports your educational and professional goals, but also challenges you to dream bigger.

At Simmons, case studies and other experiential forms of learning, are employed to develop critical thinking, problem solving, decision making, and project-management skills. Required internships allow students to apply course content in an organizational setting and examine possible career choices. Students graduate with a portfolio of course projects to demonstrate skills and competencies necessary for tomorrow's organizations.

Learn more about internship opportunities »

Dix Scholar Sharon Segura graduated in May 2010 with a BA in Management and has matriculated into the MBA program. As a BA/MBA student, Sharon took two graduate level courses while pursuing her bachelors.  These classes have helped to accelerate her MBA track. Having completed an Associates degree in business at a community college, the BA/MBA accelerated program was one the major reasons she chose Simmons.

At Simmons College, we recognize that each adult student brings her own distinct life experiences and personal story. We value your story and we value how you would add to the richness and diversity of the Simmons community. How do we show this? Through personalizing your educational experience from the moment you decide to apply.

This issue of SIGHTINGS spotlights various ways Simmons takes the personalized approach as it partners with Dix Scholars, who, like yourself, are women 24 years or older or who seek a second bachelor's degree. But don't just take our word for it! Below you'll find quotes from Dix Scholars about the personalized attention they have received at Simmons.

An Interview with Mary Dutkiewicz, Associate Dean of Administration and SOM Academic Programs

School of Management (SOM) Associate Dean Mary Dutkiewicz advises many students in the management, finance, marketing and retail management majors. She also advises students interested in accelerating from a bachelor of arts (in any major) to the MBA program at Simmons.

Learn more about the accelerated BA to MBA option »

"Mary D" as she is known throughout the Simmons community, has been at the School of Management for over ten years working with both undergraduates and MBA students, and during this time, has been instrumental in helping to further the SOM's unique mission of educating women for power and leadership.