It is common for adults to have new and varied interests after a typical college age. This opportunity to begin again with a new career field can jumpstart enthusiasm for work and life in general. Numerous adults find that returning to college offers them a way to advance their current job skills. Still, many wonder if they are too old to embark into the world of a college education. They are aware of the energy it takes and wonder if they have the stamina to pull it off. Some are anxious about fitting in since there will be a distinct difference in age among other students. If you are considering online education, the following list can help you determine if it’s a good choice for you.
DRIVING DESIRE
Attending college is stressful. If you aren’t sure about pursuing a degree, you may want to do more research before beginning. You may be undecided about your field of study. Do more research until you find what interests you the most. Ask yourself what is it you would love to do? Sometimes listening to logic is not necessarily what’s best. There are times you need to dig deep and look for what makes sense to you. If the amount of time spent earning a degree is an obstacle, consider a similar degree that requires less schooling to earn. For example; if you love the thought of being a veterinarian, but the amount of college to earn that degree is a deterrent, consider a veterinarian assistant degree. Sometimes a compromise is an answer.
MOTIVATION
Some people choose to attend online college because of a need to make more money or learn new job skills for career advancement. If there is a need that is motivating you to earn a degree, it can still be a pleasant experience. Decide exactly what you want to achieve and go for it. Many adults thrive in a college environment and are surprised by their success and how much they enjoy learning. Finding the right program is key no matter what the reason for attending college. If you are motivated to earn a degree, chances are you will do well.
TECHNOLOGY CHALLENGED
Technology skills are a concern for many adults returning to college. Some adults realize they are not as equipped with knowledge about technology as their younger counterparts. You can expect a learning curve, but there will be staff available to guide you through as needed. In general. If you can navigate your way around online shopping, send a Facebook private message, and use your email, you can master the technology needed for college.
FINANCIAL GAINS
If you’re considering an online degree, it is important to look at the financial rewards associated with your degree. Do you want to change your current field or increase your opportunities in a current position? If so, what will be the cost of your education versus the financial reward? Many believe in lifelong learning but you will, however, want to factor in the payoff. Take a look at available jobs in that market and calculate the number of years you want to work before retirement and any grants or scholarships you may get. This consideration will provide a clear picture of the cost versus benefit of attending college.
SELF IMPROVEMENT
We all know it takes money to live, however, there are more important things to consider than money. How will your life improve with new skills or the ability to move into a career you have dreamed about? At your stage in life, you may discover that a college degree in something you care about means more than the income it can bring. If along the way, when you think about your options and discover you dread the thought of returning to school, then think about making a change differently. It may be better to learn a new skill set through an internship or a shorter college course than pursue a full degree.
YOUNGER COMPETITION
An obstacle many adults face is their ability to compete with younger graduates when it comes to securing a job. Remember, life experience is something you cannot put a price tag on. Most employers know an experienced adult brings loyalty and dependability, so don’t allow this anxiety stop you from moving forward.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
Make sure you are aware of the current job market within your field of study. Look at future forecasts for the degree program before you enroll in the program. If job availability is low, you will struggle once the degree is completed and feel as though you wasted your time and money. Instead, consider other options that have a wide range of career opportunities once you graduate. Seek career counseling to help make decisions about what is marketable and what interests you.
BALANCING LIFE AND SCHOOL
Adult college students have an advantage over students who are attending college straight out of high school. Adults have years of experience balancing their different roles and budgeting time. While adult students are experienced in time management, you still have to treat it like you are a first time student and schedule time to study and build good time management skills when it comes to keeping up with the class load. It’s important to get your friends and family involved in your course of action. When you need support, you will have people to reach out to. Most colleges will offer study skills classes where students can learn how to balance workload, smart study habits, time management strategies, and note-taking techniques. All of this is helpful especially if you haven’t taken a college course in a while.
The decision to go back to college can be very rewarding. Just remember, you are not too old to return to college.
