<![CDATA[Degree Strategy]]>
degreestrategy.substack.com]]>https://degreestrategy.substack.com/s/degree-strategySubstackSat, 20 Jun 2026 21:53:59 GMThttps://api.substack.com/feed/podcast/9603137/s/410126.rssMelanie HarariYou've got the experience, now let's get you that diploma! I'm Melanie, and I'm here to help midlife learners find the shortest path to earning a degree through competency-based learning. I'll also give you the tips and tools you need to finish it fast (even if you're parenting, caregiving, or working full-time).episodicMelanie Hararidegreestrategy@substack.comNo<![CDATA[How to Map Out Your UMPI Degree (And Avoid Wasting Credits)]]>If you're heading to UMPI, the last thing you want to do is waste time and money taking classes you don't actually need. That's why I sat down with Christie Williams from Plotted Path, who has helped hundreds of adult learners figure out the absolute fastest and most efficient path to graduation. In this interview, we dive into her own experience as an UMPI student, how she maps out degree plans, and how you can level up your bachelor’s degree with only one or two extra classes!

Check out the video versions of each episode at https://www.youtube.com/@thedegreestrategist


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to UMPI and Personal Journey

04:00 The Decision to Return to School

06:54 Planning for Success at UMPI

10:01 Understanding Degree Planning

12:18 Exploring Credit Transfer Options

15:13 Common Mistakes in Degree Planning

17:54 Maximizing Educational Opportunities

20:05 The Importance of Strategic Planning

22:33 Final Thoughts and Advice

25:50 Real-Life Applications of Education

26:33 Transformative Impact of Clear Planning

26:33 Success Stories of Students

29:38 Personal Journey: A Mother's Perspective

35:13 Celebrating Achievements Together

35:33 Starting Your Educational Journey

37:27 Building Community and Support


Connect with Christie:

You can find Christie’s free UMPI degree planning spreadsheet on her website at https://www.plottedpath.com/free!



About Christie:

Christie is the founder of Plotted Path and a UMPI graduate who has helped hundreds of students map out their degree journey. She specializes in custom degree planning and transfer credit guidance to help students find the smartest, fastest route to their UMPI degree.


Connect with Melanie:

Join my email list to get weekly study tips and bonus content: https://degreestrategy.kit.com/emailsignup

You've got the experience, now let's get you that diploma! I'm Melanie, and I'm here to help midlife learners find the shortest path to earning a degree through competency-based learning. I'll also give you the tips and tools you need to finish it fast (even if you're parenting, caregiving, or working full-time).




This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit degreestrategy.substack.com]]>https://degreestrategy.substack.com/p/how-to-map-out-your-umpi-degree-and-191Buzzsprout-19356836Wed, 17 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMTMelanie HarariNo2416<![CDATA[The WGU Experience and The Value of Non-Traditional Education]]>Wondering what it’s like to get your master’s degree at Western Governors University? My guest, Danny Schwantes, shares his journey through online education, balancing work and studies, and how his degree has impacted his professional and personal life. Discover practical tips on time management, motivation, and leveraging non-traditional education paths!

Get the FREE Online College Blueprint to help you discover your priorities and pick the right program the first time at https://degreestrategy.com/#blueprint

Check out the video versions of every episode at https://www.youtube.com/@DegreeStrategy

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You've got the experience, now let's get you that diploma! I'm Melanie, and I'm here to help midlife learners find the shortest path to earning a degree through competency-based learning. I'll also give you the tips and tools you need to finish it fast (even if you're parenting, caregiving, or working full-time).





This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit degreestrategy.substack.com]]>https://degreestrategy.substack.com/p/the-wgu-experience-and-the-value-5b0Buzzsprout-19113469Tue, 05 May 2026 23:00:00 GMTMelanie HarariNo1901