Would you ever think being involved in Toastmasters could earn college credits toward a Bachelor’s Degree? While in college during the pandemic I thought I would ask this question to Metropolitan State University. 

My name is Paula O’Brien. I am a member and President of both Community Spirit Toastmasters and Apple Valley Toastmasters in Minnesota for District 6. I joined Toastmasters 8 years ago to try to build self-confidence. Within 2 meetings in each club, I could feel a foundation of confidence growing within myself as a result of writing speeches, speaking, and signing on to leadership roles. I had always wanted to finish my college degree but work and family filled my life for many years. With the confidence I was gaining through Toastmasters, I signed up at Metropolitan State University. 

Metro State offers Prior Life Experience toward earning college credits. Could being in Toastmasters count as a Prior Life Experience? It turns out, yes…I was able to receive 3 credits for writing, 3 credits for public speaking and communication, and 3 credits for leadership roles for Toastmasters and my Cosmetology business for a business class.  

To receive credit, I had to write papers, do presentations, and have a Toastmaster signature – proof of my work within Toastmasters. I am personally thankful to Linda Dorn, DTM in District 6, for her guidance for the credit received. I kept in touch with Linda on my progress so she could confirm and sign off on my work to earn credit. Each class was a full semester as a regular class but I had already done most of the required work within my Toastmasters clubs, therefore the work was much easier during those semesters.  

State Colleges and Universities in Minnesota charge $20 per credit or free if you audit classes for all persons age 62 and older. That is a steal… 

After I earned these credits Metropolitan State University decided to place “Toastmasters” on their list as another way of earning Prior Life Experience credits toward a college degree.  

I was able to earn a Bachelor of Arts/Summa Cum Laude in “Communication and Leadership” in 2020. I know that if I had never joined Toastmasters I would not have gained the confidence that I continue to gain today as well as ending up finishing a college degree that I intended to finish years ago. Many members have upleveled in their careers through being involved in Toastmasters. 

Toastmasters is a special gem in many ways for many people. I am forever thankful for Toastmasters.