Prepare your computer. If possible, get a high-speed internet connection. Make sure your computer has Quicktime software so that you can receive online lectures. Many machines already have Quicktime, but if yours doesn’t, you can download it at no cost from www.quicktime.com.
Set realistic expectations. Know what you’re getting into. Each CLI class involves hours of work each week. A four-credit class may take five or more hours per week, depending on how fast you read or write.
Adjust your load. If your course load is too heavy, don’t give up on your dream of CLI training. Instead, scale back. For example, if you enroll in two classes for a semester and later feel overwhelmed, drop one class, and do one class per semester.
Stay organized and on schedule. Classes have a week-by-week format. Don’t get behind, or it may be hard to catch up. It can be helpful to keep assignments organized in a binder. Save class videos, audios, and articles on your computer for review and future reference.
Don’t pretend. If you’re struggling in a class, don’t act as though all is well. Tell your professor if you find something confusing or hard to grasp. Ask for help.
Cut costs. Buying books online is often less costly than a local bookstore. Buying books used instead of new can sometimes save money. (Two major websites for used books are half.com and amazon.com)
Serve under a local mentor. CLI offers excellent distance education, but you need a godly, mature leader locally to help you grow in Christian character and to provide practical guidance as you do the Lord’s work in your church and community.
Get a friendly critic. Ask someone to read your assignments and give you feedback before your professor does. This critic can be your spouse or a friend. It is especially helpful if your critic has good language skills and can help you fix errors in grammar and spelling, or tell you if your words are not making much sense.
Serve actively. Stay involved in working for God’s kingdom and ministering to others, even as you are taking classes. Keep using your spiritual gifts. You will grow more as a leader if you combine your online studies with local action. CLI provides good food for thought, but ministry fitness requires exercise, not just food.
Relish relationships. Don’t let your studies replace or ruin your relationships. Find time each day to communicate with God through Bible reading and prayer. Even in the very act of studying, rely on God and ask Him to help you understand, remember, and use what you are learning to honor Him and bless others. Although your classes put demands on your time, make space in your life to enjoy loved ones. Ideally, involve your spouse in what you are learning so that both of you can keep growing together in the Lord.
