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Not sure what to do (long.. work)
This is probably going to be a mixed up rambling, so I apologize in advance for that.
I just had my yearly review - that went well except for a joke of a pay raise, but that's not what I'm babbling about.
Anyways...
After my review, my manager asked me if I would be interested in learning web design so I can design websites to promote our local beers and sodas, as well as our company. I already know the very basics, but to design and launch a functioning site would require some classes, so I was told to look into what it would take.
The college I went to offers a Certificate Program (just shy of an Associates Degree) in Web Design. I've already taken 2 of the 6 classes required to complete the program, which leaves 4 classes to take. The kicker is that I would need to take these classes in the Summer 2011 term, which means that I need to get accepted into the program before April 14th, which is open class enrollment.
Taking these classes would leave me with no "me time". I would be in a class on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11AM thru 9:50PM and Mondays from 11AM to 3PM. All those class hours while putting in 40 hour work weeks at a full time job somehow - my work hours would obviously need to change. The Summer term only runs for 2 months, but I don't know if my body and mind could handle it. Just thinking about it has me a bit overwhelmed.
My manager told me that my employer would be willing to pay for a portion of the class/book fees. The percentage is TBD because they have never done this in the past. She just seems really excited about this possibility and what it could mean for the company to have an in-house web designer.
I really like the idea of furthering my education because it would open up other opportunities for me, but at the same time I don't know if I could handle the workload without losing my mind. Another branch on my design degree would be really great for me though.
What do you think is a resonable amount for my employer to cover for the class costs?
WWYD?
ETA: I obviously plan to talk this over with H as well because it will affect us both, personally and finacially.
Re: Not sure what to do (long.. work)
For two months, I would consider it worth it. I know it would be tough, but I'd like the opportunity.
Perhaps even to treat yourself to a long vacation following your course completion.
We have tuition reimbursement within our company for a cap amount. I'd have to look it up, but it was like $2,500 per semester. I'd suggest at least 50% of your tuition being covered. I could be wrong, but they should get some sort of tax write off for it anyway.
Zuma Zoom
I'd totally do it. You can make so much money in web design, and it isn't a degree centric field, so even if your actual diploma isn't in it, you can show your certificate and have major credibility.
How much are the classes total? And a range on the books? We have an exceptional workplace tuition reimbursement, and it is $2500 a semester, so I'd probably expect something less than that. I'd definitely 100% jump in if they will pay at least half.
As far as having no you time- if they alter your hours you'll still have weekends, yes? I worked 35+ hours a week and went to law school full time for 3 years, so I promise you can do it for 2 months.
Stand up for something you believe in.
i know it sounds overwhelming but i think it will be beneficial in the long run. not only will it help your company, it will be beneficial to you should you ever seek other employment. furthering your education, if you have the means and desire, is always worth it.
re: reimbursement. we have 100% reimbursement but you have to agree to stay with the company 3 years post graduate/licensure. basically they feel like they will "make the money back" with your new experiences in those three years.
also, something to consider...is it an option for a pay increase once you have this certificate? i would think it would be worth it to bring it up to your boss.
I'm not sure on the class total, but basing it on what my costs were 5 years ago I'm guessing it will be between $800 and $1200 total.
As for books, only 2 of the 4 classes require books. So that shouldn't cost too much.
Work hours may spill into the weekend because of the Tues/Thurs all day classes, but my manager and I haven't discussed this in detail yet. I know I CAN do it, but my main concern is really the commute time (45 minutes one way) + work + class time + homework + everyday life.
I don't mind doing it all, it just seems overwhelming to think about it. And I'm more concerned about what H is going to think about this.
Definitely, definitely do it. It's only two months and it will be so awesome for your career. And I agree with Smo that afterwards, a vacation is in order. But you can totally pull this off.
I would do it. It's only for a couple of months.
We have a tuition reimbursement for up to $3k for full-time associates. Also, keep in mind - most companies that offer tuition reimbursement may require you to continue working for them for a period of time or you will be required to pay them back the money they put toward your education.
I know I won't get 100% reimbursement, but that would be nice!
A pay increase would be wishful thinking. If anything, I would maybe receive an occasional bonus or something. This is something I hadn't thought about though, so I'll add it to my notes for when I talk to my manager next.
My last semester when I finished school was a summer semester. I loved it! The classes seemed a lot more laid back for some reason, but you still got the full on experience. I liked that the class sizes were smaller as well.
I agree with everyone else. Its only two months and totally worth it. Might even be one of those things where, if you go in thinking you're going to lose your mind, you will, so instead try going in acknowledging it will be a rough two months but with the potential of being fun, new, and different then what you're used to doing.
I totally think 50% reimbursement is totally reasonable. The whole reason companies do the school reimbursement is because they assume once you come back with the new skills, you'll make them more money, which it certainly sounds like you will.
50% is absolutely reasonable. 100% is definitely the ideal, but like Stees said, some companies will only completely reimburse your tuition if you agree to stay with the company for a certain number of years. I would expect your employer to cover at least 50% though because your manager asked if you'd like to learn web design, you didn't just suggest it to your manager.
I would absolutely do this because even if it doesn't result in a raise or bonus, it's a good growth opportunity and you'll have the skills you learned in your classes as a nice resume booster when you want to change jobs later.
However, only you know what you're capable of. If you're really worried this might stress you out too much and leave you no time to relax a little, to the point that you might drop out of your classes or be unable to complete them, then you may not want to go this route. If you're fully committed and can see the benefits of getting this Certificate though, then just go full-throttle and push through the two months of hard work. I understand how you're feeling though, believe me...I was never great at doing work and school at the same time, it stressed me out beyond belief.
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I think they should pay for ALL of it.
This same situation happened to my husband and he paid nothing.
They want it = they pay.
I would do it. Like everyone else said, it's only 2 months, hopefully you'll get some reimbursement, and it'll look really good on your resume. I'm taking one seminar course in a college teaching certificate program, and just the class is impressing potential employers, I'm nowhere near completing the entire certificate, so I think completing this certificate would benefit you in the long run.
But damn, those are long classes!!