How cool is Kaplan?  Let me tell you how cool.

In my four years at Kaplan, I’ve been extended some latitude in terms of deadlines and such due to work constraints family issues, etc..  The instructors that I’ve had have been very receptive to issues that arise that are out of my control.  Granted there have not been many of them, the people at Kaplan have been great.  Yesterday was no exception.  Let me outline this in bullet format so you can understand better without me going into detail that might bore you.

Problem: My classes at Kaplan end on October 31.  The deadline for applications at Norwich University is … (you guessed it) October 31.

Problem: Kaplan instructors usually don’t have final grades in for at least a week after the term ends.  Without my final GPA, I am going to be pushed a 2008 start-date if I decide to go with Norwich.  If I don’t have all my documents in the hands of the people at Norwich by November 2 at the latest, I will not be considered.

Problem: I found out at the last minute that I have a balance on my account for about $2400.00.  That must be taken care of before graduation.  Oooops!

I made a few calls to Norwich and got the deadline extended for me until November 2.  I explained the situation I have just outlined above, and while sympathetic, they are not in a position to do much.  Rules are rules.  I get it.

So yesterday I e-mailed all three of my instructors.  I explained my situation and stressed the time constraints.  My instructors have agreed to get everything graded by Wednesday of this coming week if I get it turned in.

Next, I called the registrar’s office and spoke to someone who was VERY helpful.  This gentleman will be sending a message to my instructors letting them know that I will need my grades ASAP.  As soon as they are turned in, he is expediting my final GPA and will overnight the paperwork to Norwich.

Then I find out that I have an outstanding balance on my account.  I can’t graduate with that hanging over me!  After a call to the financial aid office, they submitted the paperwork for an additional student loan that will be paid out next week.  Just in time to graduate!

POOF!

I cannot tell you how happy I am to see that Kaplan is jumping through hoops for me.  This means the world to me!  So after a good night’s sleep, I started on my final projects this morning.  I will have them done by the end of the weekend.  Wish me luck!