5 Tips for Going Back to College
1. Meet with a career counselor to determine what
type of degree can further your career goals.
You know how the real world works. At this point you’ve probably figured out that a degree in Philosophy, while interesting, won’t further your career in supply chain management. A career counselor can help narrow the scope of options out there and may even know of a few good programs. This is where adult learners have a huge advantage over the typical college student. You already have a bit of direction.
2. Look for an accredited school and do your
research.
Not everyone is going to have the
flexibility to physically head to the classroom. Online learning is a great
option for non-traditional students. While online learning still has a bit of
stigma attached to it, well known brick and mortar schools are helping to
improve the reputability of online learning. Schools
such as Penn State, UMASS, Boston University, Pace University, and University
of Illinois just to name a few offer online programs.
3. Scholarships aren’t just for high school
seniors.
One of the hardest aspects of
returning to school is figuring out how to pay for it. Some big companies offer
tuition assistance or reimbursement. Check with your benefits department to see
if your job offers any assistance to workers wishing to further their
education. Military spouses have options available to them as well. MYCAA and the transfer of G.I. Bill Benefits are potential game changers for military spouses hoping to return to school.
Go to Fastweb.com and make an account ASAP. It’s a treasure trove of
scholarships for everything under the sun. You can even get reminders as
deadlines approach for scholarships you’re eligible for.
4. Figure out your support system.
Not everyone is going to have the
luxury of handing over their adult responsibilities to focus solely on school.
It doesn’t make much sense to clear the first hurdle of getting back into
school if you don’t have a plan to get through it. Use your resources. Talk to
family and friends about your desire to further your education. Reach out to
others who have gone back to school. Look online for forum support groups.
Everyone’s situation is unique. It won’t be easy but having a plan in place
offers you the best chance for success.
5. Believe you can.
Yes, the last tip is straight off
of an inspirational poster but don’t let that fool you. There will be moments
of self-doubt along this journey. You’ll be tired and stressed out. You’ll miss
your old schedule. You’ll lose some of your support system along the way. Be
selfish and do this for you. To throw another cliché at you, in the end it will
be worth it. If that didn’t help here’s something else to consider. According
to a study back in 2011 by Georgetown’s Center of Education and the Workforce,
people on average earned 84% more over a lifetime with a Bachelor’s degree than
those with a high school diploma.
Written By Erika Mellema
Office manager with River Valley Real Estate
19202 Huebner Rd. Suite 100
San Antonio, TX 78258
210-853-5327
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