If you are an adult and you want to fulfill your long time dream of going back to school, you are not late. You can pursue an education at any point in your life, whether you are in your teens or much older. However, it will take focus and determination; since there will be a few distractions. Of course, this will be a major life decision, but you can do it. There are different reasons why adults 25 years or older want to go back to school. Sometimes, it has to do with a change in career or acquiring new credentials and skills. Other people want to enroll in college later on in their lives to pursue personal development.
Things to Consider
Before you go this route, it is important to identify the reasons why you want to go and become an adult learner. You should also look at the pros and cons. Other things to consider are:
- Being realistic as it relates to your time, energy, and commitment
- Figuring out all the expenses involved and whether you can afford it
- Looking at whether you can focus on homework and assignments
- Deciding whether you want to take classes full time or part-time
- Deciding whether to do online classes or physical classes
- Exploring all your options to whether you can earn college credits by taking an exam or from earlier learning experience
- Finding out if there is an accelerated option so you can graduate sooner
Going Back to School
It might feel to you as if you are in unchartered territory in your quest to go back to school. You may need a little guidance and most schools do offer guidance counseling that you should take advantage of. You have a few options to help you. First, you should schedule a visit to the campus and if offered, set up a meeting with a counselor or ask if the school offers any admission events. Most colleges have a student services department that offers so many resources. Before you are admitted into any institution as an adult, you also have to order any transcripts you may have had from a previous institution or high school. You have to do the admission placement tests, if necessary, fill out the application for admission and any other college requirements necessary. If you need financial aid, the colleges have their own application form, but you can also fill out a FAFSA application for government school grants. Age is not a factor. As long as you qualify, there is a good chance you will get the grant.
Last but not least, see an advisor to help you with choosing your classes and making the appropriate graduation plans when it is time. Sign up for your classes for the first semester and you will be on your way to adjusting to the new decision to go back to school. Of course, it will be a challenge, but once you set your mind to it, you will be able to make the transition quite well.
