1.3 Benefits of PLAR

“After over 30 years since last sitting in a classroom and at the age of 51, I made the exciting decision to pursue post-secondary education. […] Having spent my entire career in Office Administration and knowing that I would have to complete courses online on a part-time basis, I contacted the Registrar’s Office at Fanshawe College – London Campus. An appointment was set up with one of their very knowledgeable & friendly advisors to come in and discuss my educational path. Going into the appointment, I was fairly confident that I had enough of a knowledge base to complete at least 4 of the courses through PLAR. To my surprise, I was informed that I could challenge up to 75% of the courses for a flat fee. By the end of the meeting and a few words of encouragement, I had enrolled in the one-year Office Administration program and decided to challenge 75% of the courses through PLAR.  […] Because I live 2 hours outside of London, I was able to write the PLAR tests at the Fanshawe-Simcoe Campus, a half hour from my home.  I successfully passed the maximum amount of PLAR courses within a 4-month time frame.  From that first meeting in London to graduation less than a year from when my journey began, it was a stress-free, enjoyable and seamless process.  It is a daunting thing to return to the classroom all these years later, let alone do it online. The support staff at both campuses and professors went above and beyond to set me up for success. Their knowledge and genuineness in wanting to see me succeed confirmed I chose the right College to continue my education.  The skills I have learned through this program have definitely further enhanced my job performance. […] An opportunity for a promotion [also] became available at my workplace!”