Online student spotlight: John Shields

The last two years have been a steady cycle of work, study, repeat for John Shields as a full-time electrical engineer at Intuitive Research and Technology in Huntsville and a student in Auburn's online Master of Electrical Engineering program. He also earned his bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from Auburn, which is how he knew Auburn was the place for him, even if he couldn't take traditional, on-campus courses. 

Q: When did you start and when do you expect to finish?
A: I started in spring 2024 and plan to finish this fall. 

Q: What made you decide to join this graduate online program?
A: I was always interested in getting my master's. I love Auburn, and I was encouraged and supported by my company to get a master’s degree.

Q: What has been your personal experience so far with the fully online/distance format?
A: It has been good; I haven’t had any issues with the courses being online that haven’t been resolved with my teachers or staff. My only complaint would be the limited course selection offered online.

Q: Would you have gone back for your master’s if not for the online option?
A: It would have made the decision a lot more difficult, and I would’ve more strongly considered local options like UAH.

Q: How do you expect this graduate degree to enhance your professional life? 
A: I think it has made me a better all-around engineer, which will give me more opportunities in my career.

Q: What would you tell someone who was thinking about applying for an Auburn Engineering Online program?
A: It’s a lot of work and it will take up most of your free time for the better part of two years, but if it’s something you’re interested in and have the time and maybe some encouragement/help from your employer, I would go for it.