While school can be difficult, adding additional responsibilities such as bills or caring for a family can seem overwhelming. Despite these obstacles, many people of all backgrounds choose to return to school to continue their education. They see it as an opportunity to improve their job prospects or secure future employment.
Many people return to school to finish degree programs or enter new careers. For some, an advanced degree is necessary to reach that level. “next”a position. These people worry that it might be too late to return to school in many cases.
Annette R. Uncangco (MS) is the regional director for career services at DeVry University. She disagrees. “It is never too late to go back to school!”
“Many of our students are adult learners, who have come back to continue their education. Our Career Services department partners with our graduates in their career search and provides them with lifetime assistance throughout their career.”
No matter your circumstances, returning to school can be a major decision. When making this decision, consider the following:
List the Pros and Con
Ask yourself this question: How much does a degree cost? What salary is it likely to bring you? What is the impact of this degree on your family’s short-term and long term? What are the various jobs that this degree can help you get? It is important to weigh the most important things before you can make a decision.
Research
Make sure you are proactive in selecting the right school and degree program. Visit campus and talk to admissions officers. Explore your financial aid options. Talk to career services. The most important factor to consider when choosing an area of study is the ability to find work after graduation.
Start a Support Network
Talk to family and friends to determine how much support you should expect. These support can be in the form of practical assistance such as prepping a week’s worth meals or finding someone who will watch the kids one night per week to allow for study time.
Clarify Priorities
Sometimes, it is necessary to sacrifice other priorities in order to achieve a great goal. You need to be realistic about the sacrifices required for a degree. This may be the time to learn to say “no” to certain outside obligations.
Returning to school can be an overwhelming decision that will require much research and careful consideration. MSN Career Igniter powered by DeVry University is one of many tools that can help you make the right preparations.
While it can be hard work, earning your college degree could well be worth it.
