Several Questions - And a Hello!

[gcalvin]

You mentioned that your employers want you to relocate to Illinois, and the degree is a requirement. Don't be shy about asking them for help. Talk to your boss, and your HR department (if you have one). Explain what you're trying to do, and the time frame you're trying to do it in. Many companies have a tuition reimbursement program, and even if your company doesn't, they may be able to arrange a loan on good terms.

Also, talk to friends and family. Tell everybody you know what you're up to. Get excited about it, and get them excited about it. You may be surprised at how many people want to be a part of such a project, and even if you don't get much direct help, the fact that people know about your goals and timetable will motivate you to stick to it. They may be skeptical at first, so keep everybody posted on your milestones and achievements. If your goal is "a four year degree in one year" then some people may think "yeah, right." But if you then let them know you've completed your first year's worth of credits in a month, you may get their attention. Maybe you can even get somebody to throw you a fund-raising party at your halfway point, or something like that. Don't be shy about it. If any of your friends or family were embarking on a similar effort, and you could pitch in a little to help, wouldn't you want to?

-Gary-