Why You Should Return to School as an Adult
Do you worry that you’re too old to get a degree? You may have been told this by some unkind people or misguided friends and family. You might think that you’re not smart enough to succeed or that you’ve lost too much time to ever succeed in life. Maybe you tried before but dropped out, and now you don’t think you’re cut out for higher education. But none of this is true. It doesn’t matter whether you’re 25 or 55. College is open to everyone, now more than ever. If you’re worried that you’re too old to go back to school, here’s why you should reconsider.
You Can Change Your Life in Five Years or Less
You can start studying even while you work. It takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree with no prior college credits, but an associate’s program takes 18 months to two years. You may decide to earn your two-year degree and apply for jobs as you continue to study toward your bachelor’s. If you go straight for your undergrad, you can keep your job and continue to live life while learning and building new skills for your future career.
If tuition costs give you anxiety, you may not realize how many opportunities there are for students to get financial aid. In addition to scholarships and tuition reimbursement plans through employers, you can also apply for student loans. Student loans can be manageable, especially if you choose a school that’s already affordable to begin with. Explore private student loans that help you grow your education without costing a fortune in the process.
Many Programs Are Offered Entirely Online
You won’t have to relocate or quit your job to attend classes on a campus. Online colleges allow adult students to maintain their regular lives while they earn a degree. From first time dads to working professionals, online degree programs are built for people of all ages and from all walks of life. Even if you aspire to earn a degree in a field that requires internships or on-the-job training, you can get all your prerequisites done digitally.
Online degrees are also more affordable, but they have the same credibility as one earned on a campus. Without having to pay for transportation or room and board, these schools cost thousands of dollars less than traditional universities. You also have more freedom and flexibility to study when it’s convenient for you. This means you don’t have to sacrifice your job or family time to get ahead in life.
The Only Person Holding You Back Is Yourself
No matter what anyone says, you have to believe that you can succeed in school. Even in the face of anxiety, you have to care enough about yourself to push forward and give it your best shot. The belief that you can set your mind to something and achieve it is more powerful than you realize, but you won’t be entirely alone regardless. Schools have plenty of services to help you transition into your ideal line of work. Career services, student counseling, academic advisors, and free tutors are all available to help you succeed.
