We’ve all heard the hype about the convenience and flexibility of online education. But if these stars managed to school online while in rigorous training for sports or even the small screen, there’s got to be something to the claim.
1. Bobby Newcombe
Former football star Bobby Newcombe completed an MBA at the University of Phoenix and is currently a doctoral student at the online university. In his new career as the associate director of public affairs at the University of Nebraska, Bobby is determined to help college athletes understand the importance of completing higher ed –- just like he did.
2. Didiayer Snyder
Not only is Didiayer Snyder a team designer on ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” she’s also a two-time graduate of Ashworth College, an online school. With her twin diplomas in carpentry and interior decorating, Didi has effectively positioned herself as an expert in design.
3. Hilary Duff
Disney superstar Hilary Duff may not be a traditional Harvard student, but she was smart enough to take advantage of the opportunity to enroll part time in the Harvard Extension School. The online, open-enrollment program enabled Hilary to audit a few college courses, including environmental science, government, and sociology.
4. Hunter Tylo
Longtime “Bold and the Beautiful” star Hunter Tylo has carved a niche for herself in the business world by taking MBA courses at the University of Phoenix, boosting her resume for her own entrepreneurial pursuits and advancing her status as a spokesperson for working mothers.
5. Jalen Rose
For five years, 13-year NBA veteran Jalen Rose took classes online through the University of Maryland University College, ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree in management studies. By making time for education between games, Jalen set himself up for his current career as an ESPN/ABC studio analyst.
6. Lisa Leslie
In between winning the Olympic gold medal four times, retired WNBA MVP Lisa Leslie made time to go to grad school. The 6-foot-five-inch forward earned her MBA online through the University of Phoenix in 2004.
7. Paige Rien
A designer on HGTV’s “Hidden Potential,” Paige Rien is also taking classes in the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division’s interior design program. Her goal? To keep her design skills fresh, study the theoretical side of design, and broaden her skill set with emerging technologies.
8. Sasha Cohen
As a champion figure skater, Sasha Cohen also holds worldwide influence in the realm of nutrition. And the nutrition classes she’s taken online through Penn State’s World Campus have helped her promote a healthy physical and mental daily regimen.
9. Shaquille O’Neal
The Man of Steel himself earned an MBA online through the University of Phoenix in 2005. Thinking ahead to NBA retirement, Shaq considers his degree a resume booster that solidifies his business acumen.
If these celebs can balance their hectic schedules with online education, can’t we do it too?
Know of any other famous people who have schooled online? Sound off below!
