Have you thought about going back to school or college but don’t know where to start?
After being a teen dropout, finally getting my GED at the age of 31 was exciting. I was so excited that as soon as I received my GED certificate, I enrolled into college. I was in such a “I can do anything” high that I didn’t really think it through.
The reality of what I had done hit me shortly after I enrolled into community college and had been approved for financial aid.
I had been out of school for 17 years, mother of 5 girls ranging from five years old to sixteen, and to top it all, I homeschool all five of my girls.
I have no idea why I thought it was a good idea to add more to my plate.
However, I just had to keep moving forward for the sake of my personal growth. I was also very blessed to have the support of my family and friends.
I am now a year and a half into getting my Associates in Science. Along the way, I learned so many things about myself. There are many things that I wish I had known before enrolling.
Without further ado, here are some tips and things to keep in mind as you make a choice.
- The first thing to keep in mind is that you investing into your education is never a wrong path to take. You can have the position of your dreams, have your own business or have the money that you want. Yet, the growth of your knowledge is irreplaceable.
- There is no such thing as to old to go back to school. One of the thoughts that lingered with me was that I was to old to start college. Especially in my first semester. I was surrounded by high school graduates (at least that is what I saw). I felt out of place and doubted myself even more. Well let me tell you something, I met a 60 year old grandmother that was about to finish her degree. The only one that can set the limit of age, is yourself!
- Look through the degree programs that the college offers. Looking through their degree programs gives you an idea to the degree that interests you. It is also a great way to familiarize yourself with the classes that are required for the degree.
- Money should not stop you from taking college courses.There are many options out there to get you the finances to start college. Do your research! There is financial aid (Government grants), scholarships or payment plans. We all know that sometimes we spend money in things we don’t really need. That money can go towards covering a class. (P.S. enrolling to a community college is free.)
- You always have time to further your education. Taking one class is better than not doing anything at all. Online classes are an option as well. You are worth taking the time to expand your knowledge. No matter what you do, time will pass you by. You might as well take a class at a time and have something under your belt.
- It’s okay to change your mind along the way. As you start taking different classes, you will find yourself enjoying certain classes. Don’t be afraid to follow that joy and change your course of action. You are not alone! Many college students change their minds in the degree program that they want to do.
- See an advisor as you begin college. Advisors are a great help in guiding you in what classes to take. Reading information on the degree of your interest will help you ask the right questions when you meet with an advisor.
- You are never alone in the confusion category. I can guarantee you with a certainty that at least half of your class is as lost as you are. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and ask questions. If at first sight you don’t understand what’s going on, don’t feel discouraged. I am two years into it and i still have to speak with an advisor to see what are my next steps.
Knowing some of these tips would have saved me many tears and frustration as I began this journey. Advisors are an amazing help to get you started. Never be afraid to ask questions especially if there is something that you don’t understand. This is your time and knowledge that you’re investing in.
Subscribe to stay informed in other ways that I can help you. Share so that we can help others that are wanting to go back to school. Feel free to leave me a comment below if you have any questions. I would also love to hear of your journey or any other tips that you would like to share with me or others.
