Going back to school is as inviting as the scent of rotting banana peels, and combined with the spring weather, studying for finals seems almost impossible. But earning your degree is one of the best and most important decisions you can make now to secure your future. Ask the celebrities and top athletes who have continued their education.
Many of the most athletic and talented in Hollywood have prepared for the day when their careers as performers and singers end and real life begins. Although some celebrities obtained their degrees using the traditional method, attending universities and college campuses, more and more celebrities are opting for distance learning courses online.
Stars in the field, in the classroom online
o MLB left-handed pitcher, Al Leiter, knows more than how to throw a perfect game. In addition to being the only major league player to defeat all 30 teams, Leiter, a retired Marlin, also earned his associate’s degree through Penn State University’s World Campus program.
o What is 7 feet tall, wears purple and appeared in 1994’s “Blue Chips”? You guessed it: Shaquille O’Neal. In addition to an NBA Championship, O’Neal also has a BA from Lousianna State University. But the Shaq-Attack education doesn’t end there; O’Neal continued his education, earning an MBA online through the University of Phoenix in 2005. Upon earning his MBA, O’Neal, a reserve officer from Miami Beach, announced his desire to pursue a degree in criminal justice.
o Retired Phoenix Suns forward, Jalen rose, is an athlete-scholar paradigm. Rose, who was drafted into the NBA from the University of Michigan during his junior year of college, was determined to earn his degree. He enrolled in online classes at the University of Maryland University College (UMUC). There, Rose earned her bachelor’s degree in management studies. Now retired, Rose continues to support education through the Jalen Rose Foundation, which offers five $ 10,000 scholarships to Michigan-area public school students each year.
o On ice, he popularized the “I” turn position and wows the crowd with his difficult jump sequences. As a competitive athletic and professional ice skater, Sasha cohen understands the importance of nutrition, exercise, and the balance of the two. That’s why this young Olympic medalist is focusing on earning her BA in Nutrition for the Pennsylvania State University distance education program.
o Former University of Nebraska football star and wide receiver Bobby newcombe enrolled in an online master’s program in business administration through the University of Phoenix. While enrolled in the online program, Newcome played for both the Indianapolis Colts and the Baltimore Ravens. After his two-year NFL career, Newcombe returned to the field of education. Newcombe currently serves as the enrollment manager for his alma mater, the University of Phoenix.
Beauty, fame and brain
o You’ve seen her on Lizzie Maguire, and your little sister probably loves her clothing line, Stuff by Duff. But what you probably don’t know is that Hillary duffA Disney Channel actress-turned-pop singer-turned-entrepreneur, she is currently in college. Between recording pop hits, rehearsing for an upcoming movie, and designing products for her clothing line, Duff chooses from liberal arts, computer science, and management classes through Harvard’s Outreach Program.
Celebrities on campus
o He is famous for his commitment to bodybuilding, and is most often associated with the quote “I’ll be back”, but Mr. Olympia / actor / Governor of California also dedicated himself to his studies. Arnold schwarzenegger earned a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and International Fitness Marketing from the University of Wisconsin.
o If the words Griffyndor, Hufflepuff, Slytherin and Ravenclaw mean something to you, then you will meet the author of the Harry Potter series. JK Rowling captivates audiences young and old with his imaginative writing. Before Rowling’s magic series was developed, she earned a BA in French from the University of Exeter.
or Oscar winner Jennifer connolly He has appeared in critically acclaimed films such as Requiem for a Dream, A Beautiful Mind, and most recently Blood Diamond. Connolly began his undergraduate studies at Yale, but later moved on to the equally prestigious Stanford University, where he earned his BA in English. Additionally, Connolly is fluent in Italian and French.
o Often plays fellow actor Rob Schneider in comedic movies like The Hot Chick, Big Daddy, and The Waterboy. Goal actor Adam Sandler he began and honed his comic skills at his alma mater, New York University. While there, Sandler earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and performed regularly at local comedy clubs.
or Tommy lee jones Not only is he an Academy Award-winning actor, director, and Broadway star, he’s also a cum laude graduate of the Harvard class of 1969. While earning his English degree, Jones played offensive tackle on the team. unbeaten soccer player at Harvard and was a future companion. Vice President Al Gore.
o Most famous for her stunning physical Barbie doll, the star of The Girls Next Door Bridget marquardt She is not a silly blonde. This Playboy Playmate graduated from CSU Sacramento with a BA in Communications, specializing in Public Relations. In 2001, Marquardt received his Master’s Degree in Communications from Pacific University in Stockton, CA. Possibly one of Hugh Hefner’s most educated girlfriends, Marquardt continued her education further by enrolling in a graduate-level broadcast communications program through UCLA’s Extension program.