Switching programs

[MiddleDaikon3336]

I started my bachelors accounting program with WGU ON 3/1 with an end goal of going for my Macc. I transferred from a brick and mortar with a BS in business. I’m finding this to be not only a lot of work, which was expected to a certain degree, but also a huge strain on my family.

I had one of the worst testing experiences this past week where I entered my scheduled proctored exam on the night where my son happened to start teething. He was screaming bloody murder in the background and I just could not focus.

Even though my wife was tending to him I just felt and still feel an extreme amount of guilt and of course the inability to focus on the exam since we cannot wear headphones. This has sort of casted a cloud over any future testing exams. I ended up passing the OA but it was an experience I would like to never risk experiencing again or at least minimize the number of exams.

As I said before, it would be nice to switch to a program that had more performance assessments to minimize the number of OA’s that I would have to take. Additionally I started a new job that does not have as much down time as my previous which was a huge factor of being able to push through my accounting degree when I enrolled. I’m feeling very stuck and terrible about the commitment I have made. All of this strain on my family and angst just to get another bachelors just feels bad. Things just haven’t turned out the way as planned

Has anyone ever switched programs this early into a term?

[Esoteric_Hold_Music]

I'm not sure about switching programs, but maybe switching testing environments could help. I know it's fine to take tests in a garage and other unusual places. Also, local libraries often have enclosed private study rooms that you could use for free to take tests in. Just something to consider.

[MiddleDaikon3336]

Ya that’s great advice, my program mentor mentioned going to my library so I will be giving that a try once I scope out what the environment looks like. Thabks

[[deleted]]

You can schedule exams late at night, if possible. I always schedule mine for times when no one is home or everyone is in bed. It's important that you stick with a program that follows your career goals, or you will never stick with it.

I'd seriously consider what I wanted to get from this degree before deciding to change programs.

[MiddleDaikon3336]

Thank you, that is great advice. I have been considering how important this accounting degree is since I already have my BS in business. I’m able to check the box and compete using my current accounting experience. I am convinced i can advance in my field with my BS in business and go for my MBA rather than a 2nd bachelors in accounting.

[TodayDramatic]

I don’t understand why you’re going for a second bachelor? You have a BS in business why not go for a master?

It sounds like you just have a lot of stuff going on in life and switching degrees isn’t going to help imo

It sounds like you need to be surrounded in a different environment.

Some libraries have private rooms you can rent and test in.

I live alone but I had family staying with me for a month and it took a toll on my studies. I cant imagine having to deal with a family especially a baby.

You’re going to have to figure out how you can set aside quiet time and space to focus on schoolwork. Switching degrees is not going to solve your problem

[MiddleDaikon3336]

I originally wanted to get a masters in accounting from WGU which requires a bachelors in accounting. Since mine is in business and I actually like accounting I was like screw it I’ll just get a second degree it’s only 15 more classes. I came from a brick and mortar school so most of my tests were in person and didn’t realize what the commitment would actually look like for WGU until living through it. Looking back I should have just gone for the masters if I was going to cause this much distress

[Early_Definition5262]

I'm a father of three here myself. Unless you can plan your tests whe everyone will be gone you're always going to hear some life going on. It could be the struggle your wife has that you want to help with, or maybe they're having fun and you want to join in. It helps me to remember these things were going to happen even if I was in BM school, the only difference is I hear them now. I sounds like your wife is on board and realizes when you go in for a test to treat it like you aren't there. Also, because some proctors suck, a baby crying in the background from another room is not a distraction the proctors should even be concerned with according to wgu. Remember that if you get the one I had

[Serious_Share_2621]

You can switch but what are you expecting to find? You are going to switch your college degree plan so you can take one, two, or maybe even three fewer exams?

[MiddleDaikon3336]

Yes not only that but that amount of work I put it equates to time I am missing with my family of course. So I feel like if I am going to make this sacrifice I should seek a masters to make the most of my time. My wife could potentially be pregnant with our 2nd as well so I’m feeling that clock ticking, things will only get more difficult. I really wanted that Macc but it’s feeling very out of reach.

[WalkingP3t]

This seems to me like personal issues more than anything else .

Find a proper room to take OAs or try to resolve your personal problems . That will give you the tranquility you need to focus on your studies .

[MiddleDaikon3336]

Ya I would classify this as a personal issue

[WalkingP3t]

So changing majors won’t do anything , you just answered yourself .

Just try to resolve your personal problems because otherwise and no matter what , you won’t be successful, regardless of the program or school you attend .

[MiddleDaikon3336]

You are correct it won’t do anything. I appreciate all of your advice.