Going to School in Person While Working Full Time

As Vice President, Project Manager at Northern Trust, Kate Cosyns has a unique perspective on the world of business and technology. 

"I have spent the last 12 years working in the financial services industry at the intersection of business and technology," Cosyns said. "This has given me unique insight into what is often lost in translation between the two. It also taught me the importance of understanding what it takes for technology to effectively enable business strategy."

To better understand the relationship between technology and business, Cosyns enrolled in Northwestern Engineering's Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) part-time program. Going to school while maintaining a full-time job brings its challenges, but Cosyns found that her classmates, professors, and MSIT staff do all they can to make the process enjoyable and impactful. 

Ross Wasserstrom made the same discovery. As Technical Account Manager for Onward Technologies, he manages day-to-day IT operations for multiple legal firms, develops and implements strategic plans, and serves as Chief Information Security Officer. Thanks to the flexibility of the MSIT part-time program option, he has been able to pursue his degree without reducing his work responsibilities. 

Wasserstrom and Cosyns are both on track to graduate in June. The two recently talked about their part-time experiences and how the program makes it possible for students to succeed.

How does MSIT make it possible to study and complete the program amidst your already busy lives?

KC: Part-time MSIT students only have classes on Saturday, which means I have the opportunity to immediately leverage what I learn in the classroom during my work week. MSIT professors and staff are very supportive in promoting the work-life balance required to attend graduate school while maintaining a full-time career. 

RW: I think the most important part of MSIT is that the program (Abi and George, Dr. Berry, the professors, the student cohort) helps you make the program a priority in your life. We can't expect to complete the assignments and learn as much as is asked on the side. The program provides a lot of support, especially from Abi and George, but to successfully complete the MSIT program, students need to learn discipline, time management, and prioritization.

Why did you choose the PT in-person program as opposed to an online option?

KC: My educational background is in the social sciences, so I felt an in-person program would better support my transition into a new field of study. 

RW: I never considered online options for my Master's degree. Master's degrees are much more cohort-based than Bachelor's. Anyone interested in a Master's degree should think about how effectively they can work in a virtual classroom at a high level (and complete complex, long-term projects) with people and professors they have not met. It's not as easy as assumed.

What are the top benefits of being in an in-person program?

KC: I’m fortunate to be in a diverse cohort, with each member bringing unique professional and life experiences to the table that make for a broad, engaging approach to problem-solving. This has been tremendously beneficial in my current role where I’m focused on coordinating large cross-functional implementations. 

RW: I don't think It is possible to complete the MSIT program without a strong relationship with the rest of the cohort since many classes and projects are completed in groups. That is more enjoyable and easier when you spend class time together. In my opinion, in-person, live classroom teaching is more effective and interesting than an online option. 

Students in the MSIT program have the opportunity to become very good friends and you want to spend time with them. The diversity of thought and backgrounds is emphasized when you meet someone in-person. Classmates are from all over the world and bring many different work experiences to the classroom.

Is there anything else you'd like to add?

KC: Technology is constantly evolving and it was important for me to find a program that supports continuing education. In June, I will be graduating with confidence knowing that I can also return and audit MSIT classes for free at any time, which means my degree will continue to be relevant. 

RW: Consider the Northwestern McCormick School of Engineering and the MSIT program reputation. Master's degrees from other programs are not valued equally. It's well worth attending the MSIT program.