Jim DivokyAssistant dean
College of Business Administration
University of Akron
Q:Why is now a good time to further my education?
A: The global economy demands that people be adaptable in thought, current in their knowledge, cooperative in their approach to work and accountable for their actions. Furthering your education helps you to develop these traits that will last you a lifetime and over many different careers.
Dale Kramer
Director of the MBA and EMBA programs
Baldwin-Wallace College
Q: Can I specialize my MBA in a certain area?
A: Yes, Baldwin-Wallace offers seven MBA programs, led by program directors who’ve had leadership responsibilities in business and education in those areas of concentration. The MBA programs include: management, entrepreneurship, international, accounting, human resources, health care and executive. Topical business elective seminars are provided in addition to the core curriculum.
Rachel Schmidt
Director, Financial Aid Office
Cleveland State University
Q: What financial aid options are available?
A: Cleveland State University participates in federal and state grant, loan and student employment programs. We also offer a wide range of merit- and talent-based scholarships. Seventy-five percent of our students receive some form of financial assistance. Financial aid options combined with affordable tuition makes CSU a viable option for students pursuing more than 200 bachelor’s, graduate and professional degree programs.
W. Benoy Joseph, Ph.D.
Associate dean for academic affairs
Nance College of Business Administration
Cleveland State University
Q: What can I do to prepare for entering an MBA program?
A: The MBA program requires you to think strategically but arrive at decisions analytically. You can prepare by developing fluency in the language of business. Read widely about business and its place in a global society. Sharpen your quantitative and analytical skills. And be prepared to speak up ... as well as to listen.
Liz Walton
Director of adult education
Cuyahoga Valley Career Center
Q:How can I find the right program for me?
A: The first step is to take a career assessment test, if you are considering changing careers, to make sure you select an appropriate match for your skills, abilities and interests. Following that, check the Web site for your local adult career center’s program offerings, or go to the Web site
wheretofindhelp.com.
Cathy N. Mansor
Dean, Weekend College & Office of Graduate
Hiram College
Q: Are classroom hours flexible enough to accommodate my work schedule?
A: The bachelor’s degree program at the Weekend College at Hiram College holds classes every other weekend. You can work at your own pace: Take two years or 20, the choice is yours. Our flexible schedule allows the student to get a bachelor’s degree while maintaining their professional and family lives.
John Crooks 
Associate provost, Lorain County Community College University Partnership program
LCCC
Q: What can I expect the classroom atmosphere to be like?
A: The learning environment of the 20th century — lecture halls with students in rows — is changing. Classrooms of the 21st century are embracing the concept of learning studios, which allow for flexible classrooms. These classrooms can be set up for discussions, lectures and other types of student interactions during the class and throughout the day. Technology enhancements allow learning to be 24/7 with such features as iTunes U, online course management systems and on-demand video. Simulations, case studies and scenarios are being implemented to provide real-life context to both lectures and laboratories. Classroom response systems have allowed for greater engagement and motivation to our newest generation of college students. The new learning paradigm is about creating challenging yet engaging environments that ask the learner to take greater ownership of their learning experience — and when given the opportunity, the results are truly amazing.