A recent survey conducted by the Association of American Colleges and Universities shows that the total number of adult learners is increasing with each passing year; this percentage has increased by almost 38% from the previous decade. There are several explanations for this upward trend in adult re-entry; there is a large percentage of individuals who have chosen to take a rest between high school and college in order to enter the work force. Oftentimes these individuals find that they need a degree in order to enhance their chosen career.
In addition to those who choose to take a break between high school and college, there are those to whom life simply happened. Family, children, and other situations can take away from one’s ability to focus on schooling.
You’re ready to go back… Now what?
- Online or campus – which is best for you? Research and choose the best learning style for you.
- After you’ve found your school, applied, and been accepted, make sure to check out its accreditation – thoroughly!
- Employed? Great! Some employers offer tuition reimbursement, especially if your degree is directly related to your current field.
- Night classes are typically available, leaving you free to work during the day and learn in the evening.
- Don’t qualify for financial aid? No problem. Many financial institutions may offer private student loans to those who qualify.
- Attending school on campus? Familiarize yourself with your instructors and classmates. Although online learning is a great option, there is no replacement for the social interaction offered by brick and mortar schools.
Schedule, schedule, schedule! Make sure you set aside time to study, complete assignments and labs, and to write papers. Getting back into the swing of attending school can be rough, so make sure you are able to give your all while still balancing the rest of your life.
Conclusions:
There are generally no cons when deciding to return to school. Education may nurture personal and professional growth rather than hinder it. Making the decision to go back to school may be one of the most important decisions a person can make. Continuing your education may improve nearly every aspect of your life including social and professional.