The Decision: It’s Never Too Late
The thought of going back to college can be daunting, especially when you’re juggling work, family, and other commitments. But I’ve seen many adult learners leap, and the rewards are often life-changing.
A few years ago, I worked with a woman named Marissa. She was a single mother working two jobs, but she had always dreamt of getting a degree in social work. After thoughtful conversations, she enrolled in an online degree program. She graduated after a challenging journey and now works with children in her community, a position she loves.
Choosing the Right School and Program
The first step to returning to college is choosing the right school and program. Here are some factors to consider:
- Flexibility: Look for programs that offer flexible scheduling options, like online classes or evening and weekend courses.
- Support Services: Schools that cater to adult learners often have support services like tutoring, career counseling, and child care.
- Cost: Consider the total cost of the program, including tuition, books, and fees. Look for programs that offer financial aid or scholarships for adult learners.
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Flexibility | Does the program offer online or evening courses? |
| Support Services | Are there resources like tutoring, career counseling, child care? |
| Cost | What is the total cost? Are there financial aid opportunities? |
Balancing School with Life
Going back to school will require some juggling. But with some strategic planning, it’s entirely doable.
One man I worked with, Tom, was working full-time and caring for his elderly parents when he decided to return to school for his MBA. He found a program that offered classes two evenings a week and spent his lunch breaks studying. It was a busy period in his life, but he graduated and was able to move up in his company.
Here are some tips for managing your time:
- Plan Ahead: Map out your schedule for the week, including study time, work, family commitments, and time for yourself.
- Stay Organized: Keep track of assignments and due dates with a planner or digital calendar.
- Ask For Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help, whether from your professors, classmates, or family members.
Staying Motivated
Staying motivated can be a challenge, especially when the going gets tough. There will be times when you’ll question whether it’s worth it. But remember, you’re investing in your future.
I recall a time when a student named Grace was feeling overwhelmed. She was working full-time, raising three kids, and taking classes. She came to me, ready to quit. We talked about why she chose to return to school—to give her children a better life. She decided to stick it out, and today, she’s a successful businesswoman.
Here are some tips for staying motivated:
- Remember Why: Keep your end goal in mind. Are you returning to school for a better job, to set an example for your children, or to fulfill a personal goal?
- Stay Connected: Join study groups or online forums. Having a community can make the journey less lonely.
- Take Care of Yourself: Don’t forget to take care of your physical and mental health. Exercise, eat well, relax, and do things you enjoy.
Adapting to the Digital Classroom
In today’s educational landscape, technology plays a pivotal role. Most colleges use some form of digital platform to assign homework, share readings, and facilitate discussions.
There was an instance where a gentleman named Robert, a 45-year-old mechanic, decided to pursue his lifelong passion for history. Robert was brilliant but hadn’t used a computer since high school. He felt overwhelmed by the online learning platform. But with some help and practice, he soon got the hang of it. Now, he’s working on his thesis about World War II.
Here are some tips for navigating the digital classroom:
Familiarize Yourself: Spend some time exploring the learning platform. Click around to see where everything is.
Ask for Help: If you’re not tech-savvy, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your school’s IT department, librarians, and classmates can be great resources.
Stay Organized: Keep your digital files organized in a way that makes sense. This can save you a lot of time in the long run.
Financial Planning for College
Going back to college can be a significant financial commitment. But with careful planning and research, managing your finances while pursuing your degree is possible.
I remember a student, Lisa, a mother of two. She wanted to go back to school but was worried about the cost. We sat down, looked at her finances, researched scholarship opportunities, and devised a plan. Today, she’s a registered nurse.
Here are some tips for financial planning:
Understand the Costs: Ensure you understand all the costs involved—not just tuition but also books, supplies, transportation, and any childcare you might need.
Look for Scholarships and Grants: Many scholarships and grants are specifically for adult learners. Your school’s financial aid office can help you find these.
Make a Budget: Plan your finances ahead of time. Consider your income, savings, expenses, and how much you’ll need to set aside for college.
Can Single Moms Get Any Additional Financial Aid or Support for Going Back to College?
Yes, there are various programs and scholarships that provide financial aid for single mothers seeking to further their education. From federal grants like the Pell Grant to state-specific programs and scholarships, there are resources available to help single moms achieve their academic goals while juggling their financial responsibilities.
Wrapping It Up
Returning to college as an adult learner is a courageous step toward personal and professional growth. It may seem challenging and, at times, overwhelming. But with careful planning, a clear vision, and a resilient spirit, it’s a journey that is possible and incredibly rewarding.
Remember the stories of Marissa, Tom, Grace, Robert, and Lisa. They, like you, had their concerns and faced their hurdles. But they persevered, adapted, and achieved their goals. As you embark on this new journey, remember that you’re not alone and that every step brings you closer to your goal.
Returning to college isn’t a decision to be taken lightly, but it could change your life. So take that step. Embrace the challenge. Reach for your dreams. You’ve got this!
