Recent Posts

Blog Archive



Tuesday, October 28, 2008

An Overview of Going Back to College

By Jennifer Marsh

The transition in education from high school to college is a huge step for many people. Education is a long term commitment with life long rewards. There is no age limit for a higher education, so many adults who didn't take the opportunity when they were younger are now going back to college for their degree. What about those people who decide to go back after years of career and being on the job? What should they expect and how should they prepare?

Higher education can be scary and exciting at the same time. Many adults who decide to trade in their social lives for nights at school and studying have a strong goal for their future. Juggling school, work, family, and a social life are not easy tasks when they are jumbled together. Going back to college for a better education is never something you will regret.

If your schedule is already hectic, make sure to test the waters before diving into a full course load in college. Higher education demands the same kind of time as a job, perhaps even more. Take a half course load (about six credits) or take easier classes to get yourself acclimated to your new goal. Dedication to good grades will be hard to accomplish while maintaining a full course schedule during your first semester.

Create a schedule for your time. You may find yourself feeling pulled in all kinds of directions if you don't plan out your time properly. Buy a planner to keep track of important exam dates. Schedule time each day to study. Never cram your study time within a day or two. You will quickly find that this is a direction of failure. If your employer is flexible, ask for time off prior to exams to relax and focus.

Going to school part time will greatly increase the time it will take for you to graduate. Realize that part time will take four years of higher education and turn it into eight years. If you are truly serious about getting that degree, find out if your employer will allow you to work different hours. Some students choose to balance between financial aid, student loans, and part time jobs to get by financially.

You may be eligible for financial aid to help pay for higher education. Always submit a Federal Application for Federal Student Aid. It will find money available to students with financial difficulties including subsidized loans. This is only the first step, however there are numerous financial institutions and available funding from grants that provide money for higher education.

Finally, schedule time to relax. After a big exam, treat yourself to some time to exhale. Meditation and time alone can help regroup your thoughts and relieve stress. These simple exercises will help you deal with the stress of your new hectic schedule. If you get too overwhelmed by school and other priorities, it's time to restructure your schedule. College is an enjoyable experience. Make sure you enjoy it!


For more information, visit http://www.oneducation.tv/.

No comments:

 

GooContents | Jump to TOP