Spartans of UD: Lee Noethe
Feb 28, 2018 | University Relations staff
Spartans of UD highlights what makes University of Dubuque special – the people who live, work, and study on campus. Lee Noethe is the director of MBA and LIFE (Learning Institute for Fulfillment and Engagement) admission – Dubuque campus. He has worked in the adult accelerated degree program for nine years at UD.
LEE NOETHE
Director of MBA and LIFE Admission - Dubuque Campus
1. What inspired you to become an admission counselor?
“I enjoy representing a product like education, because I can see the end results and intrinsic values of my efforts and that of the student. The benefits of education and lifelong learning are priceless. Lucky me to be able to inspire and motivate the adult learner to move in a direction that may at times seem difficult.”
2. How are you able to help adult learners navigate the college application process?
“When possible, I like to meet with the prospective adult student one-on-one in my office. I work two nights a week until 9 to accommodate their schedules. I go through the application process (which most of our students will complete online), discuss how to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and inform them about the types of grants and loans typically available. When nontraditional students have previous college credits, we will go over their transcript to determine how their credits transfer and see what’s done, what’s left to do, and how long it could take to finish. When registering adult students, I go through a short orientation in which we discuss log-ins and the layout of the campus. I will also suggest classes to meet their needs and try to consider the nights of the week they are available to attend. Realistically, the LIFE office is a one stop shop!”
3. What advice do you have for adults interested in the University of Dubuque’s LIFE program?
“First of all, it’s never too late to go back to college! The process of applying, getting accepted, and filling out the financial aid form is easier than you think. It’s amazing how many adults want to go back to school, but they are fearful of the process. We are here to help alleviate any insecurities people may have about attending college and to make the process easy and seamless.”
4. What is the biggest misconception about the University of Dubuque’s LIFE program?
“One of the biggest misconceptions about the University of Dubuque’s LIFE program is that people will not be able to fit going back to college into their already busy lives. We created the accelerated evening adult LIFE program with the working adult in mind. Tuition is affordable. Classes are offered in a five week format one night a week from 6 to 9 p.m. We offer nine, five-week sessions year round. With a class starting every five to six weeks throughout the year, a student can start any time. We also offer free evening childcare the night of the week the student is in class in Dubuque.”
5. Do you have a favorite quote or saying?
“I call these LIFEisms. If anyone wants to know more our program, I am willing to discuss with them the Meaning of LIFE, and, maybe through our discussion, I can bring them to LIFE! In the end, when all is said and done, we can say LIFE is good!”
