Core Values: Service

Wednesday, November 16, 2011 by Kevin Burton
The last of my look at The College Network Core Values, I'd like to blog on our commitment to service.

ServiceIt is a personal goal of mine to treat others as I'd want to be treated.  At The College Network, we instill that motto into all of our employees.  We are devoted to respecting others, internally and externally, and strive to provide world-class service to all of our stakeholders.  

As a service based company, we have many areas of interaction with our customers.  As a program advisor, we serve those who are interested in enrolling and learning more about our distance nursing programs and online certificate programs.  Our academic support, appointment setting, financial services, marketing, and independent program advisors also help shape all the of service departments of our company.

We're committed to providing the world class service you deserve.  Feel free to call us anytime!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Core Values: Integrity

Sunday, November 13, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Continuing my series on The College Network Core Values, today will focus on Integrity.

We look to always do what is right, even if no one is looking.  Our commitment to being honest and respecting not only our customers, but fellow employees is at the foundation of our existence as a company.

IntegrityIn my specific role as a program advisor, doing what is best for YOU, the customer is what is at our core.  My colleague Matthew Pinkston challenged us all with a question to ask ourselves everyday when speaking to potential students: Are we doing what is best for our students, or are we doing what is most convenient for us?  Our core values such as integrity push us to do what is best for you!

We strive to have the utmost integrity in our service to you!  Give us a call for any questions or enrollment into any of our online certificate and degree programs - we're happy to help.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Core Value: Excellence

Wednesday, November 9, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Continuing with my series of The College Network Core Values, let's look at excellence.

Be the best!We challenge the norms and commit to raising the bar with constant improvement.  Excellence means different things to different departments in our company, but from a customer standpoint, myself as a Program Advisor and others in customer service want to ensure that your experience is above and beyond what you expect every time you connect with us.

Personally, I want to convey our commitment to excellence by asking you to do the same.  Pursuing your advanced nursing education with us at The College Network requires you to raise your own bar and demand the best of yourself.  In this pursuit, you must display the courage and honesty to allow yourself to achieve what you want to achieve.  I have no doubt our team can help assist you in achieving your own excellence with your goals!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Core Value: Innovation

Saturday, November 5, 2011 by Kevin Burton
In my continuing series on The College Network Core Values, I want to take a look at Innovation.

Light Bulb IdeasWe are looking to use all information available and apply it in unique ways to turn learning and leadership into a reality for our employees and customers.  Whether it be internal steps to make our company more efficient, or something that will help you, the customer, in your day-to-day; we invest our time to make sure we are on the cutting edge of providing the most convenient way for you to complete your online certificate or degree program.  

We have come a long way in just the past year, with online study materials and more interactive learning modules. We even have a brand new online testing service that allows you to test out for your college credit with a web cam from the comfort of your own home.  It is our dedication to being on the forefront of innovation in the online learning community that makes our experience better for you.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Core Value: Learning

Friday, October 28, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Learn to achieve!Previously, I wrote about our Core Value of Quality.  Keeping with that theme, I will do a series on all of The College Network's core values, continuing with this post focused on Learning.

It is our commitment at The College Network to cultivate and empower lifelong learners.  Not only is this true from an employee standpoint; we ultimately strive to create an environment where adult learners can further their education conveniently in an online environment.  Our partnerships with fine learning institutions such as Boston University, Purdue University, Indiana State University, and Regis University among others, shows our commitment to help you learn in professional certificate and online degree programs from top universities.

If you have a passion for learning, and want to further your education, look no further than The College Network!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Nursing FAQs

Saturday, October 15, 2011 by Kevin Burton
As a Program Advisor at The College Network, answering questions about all of our programs is basically what I do all day long.  I want to take this time to cover a couple of the frequently asked questions about our top online nursing programs.

Do you need my transcripts before enrolling?

No.  We actually will pull those for you after you enroll with us.  Our academic support team will evaluate and double check our preliminary program outline, and either add or subtract courses based on your official transcripts.  If you want to send me an unofficial copy ahead of time, feel free, but if you are sure of the courses we discuss then there is really no need.
Thank you to all nurses!
How does the test out process allow me to receive my college credit?

Since our modules are designed to help you test out for your college credit, the way those credits transfer in are through ACE (American Council on Education).  Almost 2,000 regionally accredited schools accept ACE credit recommendation earned through testing out of courses through CLEP, DSST, Excelsior, and The College Network examinations.  So, by passing these tests, you earn a college credit recommendation from ACE, who sends them directly to the school you are pursuing your degree through to have them count for your credit.  

These are not all the questions about our online nursing programs, but hopefully this is a start to help you understand some of inner workings.  I want to reassure you that we at The College Network are here to help you earn your degree and further your career.  We have helped hundreds of thousands of students, and offer the most convenient RN license programs.  You may think the program seems almost too good to be true - well it almost is, but where reality kicks in is you have to be self-disciplined to complete your courses.  If you have the drive and want to complete the program, I guarantee you will, just like we guarantee you will pass all your module courses with us.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Man (or Woman) in the Mirror

Tuesday, October 4, 2011 by Kevin Burton

At The College Network, we have helped over 175,000 adult learners further their education.  Unfortunately, there are some who were unhappy with their program experience.  For whatever reason, the nursing independent study program did not suit their needs, or they gave up on their dream of completion.  It is easy to be upset, and trust me, we do everything in our power to help people complete their degree and succeed in their program.

It is these people, who were unable to achieve their goal and gave up, that speak negatively about The College Network.  When is the last time you had a good experience and went out of your way to comment about it online, on a comment card, or through a public medium?  Most of you would say rarely, if ever.  And I want to draw your attention to that, because if you research The College Network any negativity you come across is from a fraction of a percent of our customers.  If 200 people out of 175,000 jumped off a bridge would you jump too?

"The Dude" takes a look at himself too

That's why I say, take a look at yourself in the mirror.  YOU control your success within the program.  If you are dedicated and willing to finish the program, we guarantee that you can and will.  I admit, these distance nursing programs aren't for everybody, but if you want the best way to achieve the most convenient RN license, give us a call and we will help you achieve your goals of becoming an RN.  So again, take a look in the mirror, and if you can and want to do this, you are the only obstacle in your way.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Not a Number

Saturday, October 1, 2011 by Kevin Burton
OdometerI'm sure I am in the minority, but I love numbers and statistics.  It is always hard to argue with such concrete and finite data, and to see the results of mathematical based studies. Sports, economic, business, or educational statistics, can give you an idea of trends, abilities, and truths of different fields.  As for The College Network, the numbers say we have helped over 175,000 people further their higher education online.  But too often in the world, whether in business, sports, or education, people focus too much on the numbers and not enough on the person.

We care about YOU at The College Network, and we vow not to treat you like a number.

Statisitically speaking, in the past 50 days or so, I have helped 25 people get started toward higher education.  But to me, I have helped: Polly, Brittany, Caryn, Monica, Megan, Jon, Samantha, Jeffrey, Soonho, Debra, Gary, Alysha, Jeremy, Jim, Michael, Zoilo, Thom, Tammy, Jane, Lakshmi, Jeff, Jacqueline, Bill, Pamela, and Donna.  Each of these folks has a unique story, a unique sitaution with a desire to further their education online.  No one want wants to feel like a drone, like a number, like the next in line at the DMV.  You are not a machine, and should not be treated as one.

'Psych' characters Shawn Spencer and Burton GusterSo give me a call.  Let's discuss what is important to you.  What are your goals, and why are you looking into furthering your education online?  I'm not a psychic (or a fake one like my favorite TV show), but you can be sure I am going to bring my best attitude, so bring yours and we can have a chat and maybe even have fun in the process.  It is my goal to leave you smiling and to laugh once a conversation, so let's get to work!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Do

Monday, September 26, 2011 by Kevin Burton

YodaTwo of the most influential enterprises of the past 30 years both expressed the need for people to do.  Both Nike and Yoda from Star Wars have interesting mottos and quotes that lead me to believe, "hey, they might be on to something here."

Yoda:  "Do, or do not.  There is no try."

This applies to The College Network undoubtedly.  With our nursing independent study programs, we offer the support for you to fully succeed in finishing your degree.  All of our online comprehensive learning modules come with the guarantee that you will pass each course you take - we guarantee it because if you are having trouble our academic support team is here to assist you, and if that isn't enough... if you do not pass an exam after two tries, we will find a tutor to help you get to the point where you can pass that exam.  So, all it really comes down to is if you are going to do, or do not.
Nike
Nike:  "Just Do It"

That pretty much sums it up.  Just do it, folks.  We know that life happens, and our programs provide you the flexibility to withstand any circumstances to complete your program of choice.  So, ask yourself, "is it time for me to Just Do It?"

If you have any questions or would like to enroll in any program please let me know.
Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com


Core Value: Quality

Thursday, September 22, 2011 by Kevin Burton

Here at The College Network, we are committed to six key core values: Quality, Learning, Innovation, Excellence, Integrity, and Service.  I am proud to embrace and practice each of these values everyday I step in the office, but one key value is central to my day-to-day activities in being a Program Advisor to our potential and current customers: Quality.

International Symbol of Program Advisors of Team QualityEvery time I speak with someone via email or phone, I put all of my heart into the conversation to provide the highest quality possible.  It is my job to provide you with the essential information you need to know to make the best decision possible in pursuing your higher education online.  I pride myself in making sure the key metric that defines my day is how many times I can say I had a quality call.  Remembering that our conversation is about YOUR goals, and YOUR dreams to obtain the education to further your career and life really pushes me to make sure you are armed with the best information possible.

So, if you are thinking about furthering your education online, either a nursing degree or professional certificate, please let me know because I want to provide you with my next quality call!

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com


Learn is the Word

Tuesday, September 20, 2011 by Kevin Burton
According to the musical group The Trashmen and their 1964 hit "Surfin' Bird," apparently bird is the word.  Well, I am here to tell you that at The College NetworkLEARN is the word.

It seems a lot of us get caught up on what the end result of completing our programs are.  For example, obtaining your nursing degree from one of our top online nursing programs is a great accomplishment, but what about what we learn during the process?  I have to admit I am guilty of this just as much or more than anyone else, but I think it is a great time to reflect on exactly how you grow as a person and how much you will actually learn from The College Network online programs.

Imagine what you can do with the knowledge obtained in the Lean Six Sigma program from Purdue University.  The knowledge you receive from certified professionals can greatly improve your day-to-day work efficiency, and help you improve the quality of projects or processes in your company and end up saving hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.  And, it is no secret why RN nurses are better paid and in more leadership positions compared to LPN/LVN nurses.  Think of all the knowledge you will obtain in studying and learning throughout a Bachelors or Associates nursing program that you may have missed out on.

Yes, The College Network can help you achieve the certificate or degree you seek, but don't forget to soak in all the knowledge along the way!  Learn is the word!

Now for your viewing pleasure, and what you probably came for in the first place, a famous rendition of "Surfin' Bird."



Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734

High Demand - Purdue University Lean Six Sigma

Monday, September 12, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Lately, there has been an overwhelming demand for the Purdue University Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Advanced Lean, and Black Belt Programs.  Program Advisors at The College Network, like myself, have been enrolling students months in advance of start dates, and every class fills to capacity.

What is Lean Six Sigma, and how can it help your day-to-day responsibilities?

Lean Six Sigma is the combination of the Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to help improve any project or process.  Lean is designed to help streamline production and eliminate waste within any project or process (or, do things faster).  Six Sigma is designed to improve overall quality within any project or process (or, do things better).  So, essentially, if you are looking to do things better and faster, Lean Six Sigma can help you achieve that.

So if you are curious or have heard of the ever growing standard of Lean Six Sigma, and would like to earn your certificate and certification from world-renowned Purdue University, please give us a call and we at The College Network will be happy to provide you the online education that can help your career !

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Remembering 9/11

Sunday, September 11, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Proud to be an American!As I sit here and ponder what to write about, the only thing that comes to mind is the events that took place exactly 10 years ago, today.  So today, I'll take a break from talking about higher education online programs through The College Network.

It is no doubt that September 11, 2001 changed the lives of people across our country, and today is about giving thanks to those folks who were so courageous on that day 10 years ago.  A common theme I've seen throughout the past week is people remembering what they did on that fateful day. Where were you?

I was a young, first-year student at Purdue University.  I was in a computer lab for one of my classes, and in came running a teaching assistant for our class exclaiming a plane had hit the World Trade Center in New York City.  The first thing I remember is panicking and trying to look at the news online.  For some reason, I knew something strange was happening. So along with others, we left the class early to go investigate what had happened.  As soon as I arrived in my dorm room, I turned on the TV and right away saw the second tower hit with another jet.  To this day, that may be the scariest image I've seen in my whole life.  Watching the rest of the events unfold that day were nerve-wrecking, and something I'll never forget.  The rest of the day, campus felt like a ghost town.  I remember the dining hall being eerily quiet for dinner that night. The only conversations uttered were based upon the events of the day.  Everyone was in shock.  I'll never forget 9/11/01.

Again, I want to send out well-wishes, thanks, and support to all Americans whose lives were effected in any way, shape or form through September 11.  And of course, thank you to our Armed Forces who protect our freedoms across the globe.  Also, a special thanks to one of my best friends, who is a Naval nurse stationed in Sicily, Italy. Thanks buddy - thinking of you today.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Paralegal Forecast: Sunny

Saturday, September 3, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Sunny DaysIn this economy, the job outlook in many fields is often uncertain and volatile.  In weather terms, this can mean some fields are in for a cold front, windy days, pop-up storms, blizzards, heat waves, and other unpredictable weather occurrences.  But for those looking into the paralegal or legal assistant field there is good news: your forecast is sunny skies!

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website (click here), through 2018 there is a projected growth of 28% within the paralegal and legal assistant field.  That's a projection of over 74,000 new jobs between 2008-2018!

The College Network can help you break into the paralegal field through the Online Paralegal Studies Program from Boston University.  This certificate program is designed to give you the immediate knowledge and credential you need to walk into any paralegal/legal assistant role and do the work right away.  Throw in the fact that it is completely online, asynchronous with no mandatory login times, and done over a 14 week period - and it has never been more convenient for the working adult to pursue a career enhancement or career change!

If you have any questions or would like to enroll in the Boston University Paralegal Program, feel free to contact me:  Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Me, Myself, and Irene

Thursday, September 1, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Warning!It's hurricane season, and recently Hurricane Irene struck the U.S. eastern seaboard.  Like many of you reading this, you were either directly effected, or had family within its path.  I personally had family in coastal South Carolina, coastal Maryland, and New York City, and they all were affected in some way by Irene.
Hurricane Irene
I just want to take a minute to recognize and thank those that are out there to help in the wake of natural disasters like Hurricane Irene.  And, as it relates to The College Network, I am excited to know we have helped thousands upon thousands of nurses complete NLNAC Accredited nursing programs.  Knowing the value and quality of education these nurses have received in achieving their BS in Nursing, or Associates in Nursing; it is comforting to know these very people we help at The College Network are also out there helping in situations like these.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Two Bits, Four Bits...

Tuesday, August 30, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Go, Team, Go!Two bits, four bits, six bits, a dollar!  All for Alysha, stand up and holler!

(Please stand up with me right now and holler)

Everyone who has been to an elementary, junior high, or high school sporting event has heard that cheer.  Well, what does it have to do with higher education online with The College Network?

I'm so glad and proud that recently I was able to help Alysha from Texas start on her Online Paramedic to RN program.  One thing that we talked about was that we at The College Network are here to cheer her on while progressing through her program (using pom-poms and megaphones, of course).  Anytime you have questions about our program, course content, or just need a fun cheer like 'Two Bits' from us, you can always give us a call, both our Academic Support team, and even your program advisor like myself.  We care about helping you achieve your degree and goals.

Rah-rah!Changing lives everyday is what we all do here at The College Network.  Alysha is one example of someone I enjoyed working with and helped take the next step in her life.  Needless to say, we even had a little fun in the process.

If you would like to speak about any of our programs at The College Network, or are a current customer that needs a cheer, please give me a call and let me know.  We may even have fun in the process.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734. kburton@collegenetwork.com

Tootsie Roll Pop

Saturday, August 27, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Mr. OwlHow many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop®?  Well, according to Mr. Owl, its only 3 (but I beg to differ, those things are pretty solid).  What's the point of my asking this?

You will never know until you try.

If you are considering a transition from your LPN/LVN or Paramedic license to get your RN, The College Network can help you try in the most convenient way possible.  Our educational materials and Comprehensive Learning Modules allow you to tackle achieving your degree in an online and self-paced manner.  Advanced nursing education has never been so convenient to the working adult, so why don't you give me a call and I'll help you try!

Side note:  If you speak to me and mention this blog post I will personally send you a bag of Tootsie Roll Pops® - you know, for the kids (wink, wink).

Contact me:  Kevin Burton, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Bottleneck Bypass

Tuesday, August 23, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Traffic JamDon't you hate being stuck in traffic?  Sitting in the car and not moving but a mile an hour isn't the most fun in the world.  Besides traffic, another place where there is a bottleneck of people waiting is to get in is nursing programs.  I talk to so many Paramedics and LPN/LVNs that want to find nursing programs with no waiting lists, and most on campus options are currently booked.  I even talked with an LPN yesterday whose local school had a 12 year waiting list for the RN program!

Stuck at the DMV
The College Network allows nurses to bypass the "traffic" and start and finish their RN program with no waiting list.  Whether you want your Associate Degree in Nursing or Bachelors Degree in Nursing, our programs offer self-paced flexibility for your general education and prerequisite courses!  So why make yourself sit in traffic when you can start right away?  Call me, and I'll show you the way to bypass the bottleneck and achieve your goals with degrees from leading universities.

Kevin Burton, Program Advisor, 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734, kburton@collegenetwork.com

Don't Biff Yourself Out

Thursday, August 18, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Great Scott!Don't you just hate it when you are outsmarted? You over think something and before you know it, you fall behind or are in a bad situation.  This kind of thing reminds me of the bully in the Back to the Future movie series, Biff Tannen. Biff was strong and aggressive, and the main source of ire for the movies heroes but in the end, he was always outsmarted by Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox).  My question is, are you Biff-ing yourself out right now with your education?

Have you heard something bad online about The College Network and other online degree options?  Odds are you have, and that is unfortunate. As a Program Advisor, I am here to give you the facts about any of our programs - certificates and degrees from top universities.  Are you letting someone you've never met dictate what you want to do with your career, and what direction you want to go with your education?  Here at The College Network, we offer so much more in addition to your educational materials, including an academic support team to help you through your education endeavor.  Do you want to be like this?:
Thomas F. Wilson as Biff Tannen
Do yourself a favor and give us a call.  Don't over think it or be outsmarted and end up like Biff.  Start your path to a better life today.

Feel free to contact me, Kevin Burton, at 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734 or kburton@collegenetwork.com.

The Dog Days of Summer

Saturday, August 13, 2011 by Kevin Burton
Home of my RockiesAugust is now in full swing and the heat has been sweltering for most of the United States this year.  What reminds me of the 'dog days' are the Major League Baseball races that start to heat up in August.  It's during this time that the leading contenders for the playoffs start to separate themselves from the competition.Back to school

Are you ready to separate yourself from your competition?  August is also back to school month for most - so now is a great time to start any College Network online certificate or degree program.  Achieving higher education online is now easier than ever with any of our programs, so give me a call today and I'll be happy to assist you!

Any questions please contact me, Kevin Burton at 1-800-307-1006 Ext. 4734 or at kburton@collegenetwork.com.