Simmons College

The Simmons College Class of 2013 graduated last Friday, May 10th.  Congratulations from all of us at the Dix Scholars Blog!  Check out the Commencement Connect page for more coverage.

Graduation might seem a long time away, especially if you haven't been in school for awhile.  But it may be closer than you think!  Our transfer credit policies allow you to bring in up to 80 credits, including up to 24 through credit for prior learning.  As a Dix Scholar, you can attend on a full-time or part-time basis, even varying your courseload by semester, in order to reach  your goals and your degree in a way that works for your life.

So take the plunge and apply, and soon it may be you walking across the stage at Commencement!

On Thursday, May 23rd, come visit Simmons to learn how to earn up to 24 college credits for your life and work experience.  Our Credit for Prior Learning workshop will teach you how your experience can be transferred into college credits and significantly reduce the cost of tuition.  Register here!

We have planned this event as a workshop for adult students seeking to complete their first bachelor's degree.  Strong candidates for this program are those who generally have less than 80 college credits and are seeking a bachelor's degree in one of our close to fifty majors.  Please note that due to the specific requirements of the nursing or physical therapy programs, students seeking to pursue these majors are often not candidates for the Credit for Prior Learning option.   If you have specific questions about your potential eligibility, please email: dix@simmons.edu for additional guidance from an admission counselor prior to the event.

Looking to learn more before the event?  Check out our June 2012 Sightings entry!

April 4^th marked the birth date of Dorothea Lynde Dix, the namesake of the Dix Scholars program here at Simmons.  But who was Dorothea Lynde Dix?  Dix was a social activist in the 19^th century.  In early life, she was an educator, and founded two schools.  She traveled the country, exploring the treatment of people with mental illness, and advocating on their behalf.  Some of this work even took her abroad!  Dix served as the Superintendent of Army Nurses for the Union during the American Civil War. 

Dorothea Lynde Dix was an independent spirit known for both her service and activism.  Like her, Dix Scholars at Simmons are ready to make a difference.  Happy Birthday, Dorothea!

We are pleased to announce that Simmons has extended our summer application deadline from April 1st to April 15th!  Still haven't applied yet?  Here are some tips from our admission counselors:

• Start on gathering your recommendations, transcripts, and test scores (if required for your major) first, as those typically take the longest time to get together.  View our application requirements here.
• Take your time to write a strong resume and personal statement.
• Don't wait for your admission decision to apply for financial aid.  Apply as soon as possible, so you have the time to make a sound decision about your investment.
• Haven't been to an information session yet?  Just call us at 800-345-8468 or 617-521-2051 to schedule an in-person or phone information session.  Only a quick question?  Contact your counselor!

If you still need more flexibility, all you have to do is contact your admission counselor.  We are happy to discuss your application!

One of the benefits of being a Dix Scholar is your access to the vibrant campus life at Simmons College.  Last Friday, prominent feminist Gloria Steinem spoke on the Simmons Campus.  Take a look at boston.com's live blog, and then read the Boston Globe's article from the next day! 

As a Dix Scholar, you have many opportunities to be involved in campus life!  Many Dix Scholars participate in student life as mentors or educators, and the Dix Scholars Association will help you connect with other adult students at Simmons.

Nursing is the most popular major for Dix Scholars.   However, it is certainly not the only major open to you!  Here's a list of the most common majors being studied by Dix Scholars. 

1. Nursing

2. Psychology

3. Management

4. English

5. Biology

6. Nutrition

With over 50 majors and programs, you're sure to find an area of study that will help you meet your career goals.  Education, Philosophy, Computer Science, Spanish, Arts Administration... the list goes on!  Let your Dix Scholar admission counselor know if you are interested in learning more about any of our programs.  You can also request a meeting with a faculty member or a class visit here!

Many of the questions we receive from Dix Scholars are regarding transfer credit.  We understand that many of our Dix Scholars have taken college coursework elsewhere, and perhaps have already earned a Bachelor's degree.  The good news is that our generous transfer credit policy honors the hard work you've already put into your education.  Here are a few of the most common questions, along with their answers.

Q: How many credits can I transfer to Simmons?

A: Simmons accepts up to 80 transfer credits.

Q: What grade do I need to transfer a course?

A: Simmons will transfer credits from courses in which you've earned a "C" or higher.  We also accept a grade of "Pass" if accompanied by proof that it represents a "C" or higher. 

Q: Can my transfer credit fulfill Simmons graduation requirements?

A: Yes, transfer credits can (and often do) fulfill our graduation requirements.

Q: I took college coursework in another country.  Will this credit be accepted?

A: Simmons does consider international coursework for transfer credit.  You must send us an evaluation of your international transcript done by the Center for Educational Documentation or World Education Services.

Q: I first attended college more than 10 years ago.  Will Simmons still accept my transfer credit?

A: Yes, there is no expiration date on transfer credits.  (However, please note that the math competency requirement must have been completed within the past 7 years).

Q: I have other questions about transfer credit.  What should I do?

A: You can view our transfer credit policies here.  Still have questions?  Contact your Admission Counselor and we would be happy to help! 

Laura Duymovic entered Simmons in January 2012 to study management, and she is currently considering the BA to MBA program.

What was your educational history prior coming to Simmons? I went to college right out of high school, while working a full-time job in a hotel. I began achieving promotions and greater responsibility at work, which required much more time and flexibility in scheduling, and ultimately transfers to different states. I couldn't afford not to work, so I opted to drop out of college just before my first transfer.

What were you doing before coming Simmons? I worked in the hospitality industry for over 20 years and residential property management for about 5 years. I always kept finishing my degree as a goal in my mind. I even took additional college classes towards my degree in California but got transferred after only taking five classes. I was laid off of work and after about a year or so of looking with no success, decided to go back to college, which led me to Simmons.

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 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.

Here are some of the numerous ways that 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.