A Few Tips For Adults Going Back To School

If you’re an adult and are considering going back to school, you probably have a few questions and concerns. Why go back? Will I fit in? How do I study with today’s modern technology? Is it even worth going back to school?

Don’t worry, SchoolMatchPro.com is here to help!

Not only can we assist you in finding a great school that fits your needs, but we offer you some tips to help you succeed once you do enroll.

Now, you may already know this, but people who have earned a college degree generally make more money than people who haven’t earned one. In fact, a recent study showed that, on average, a recent college grad makes about $22,000 a year more than people who have not graduated.[1]

The key word her is “recent.” That means that right off the bat, you could be earning a whole lot more money if you earn your degree.

So that alone may be reason enough to go back to college and finally earn that degree. Of course, you’re probably still concerned about fitting in, how to study, and a bunch of other things. But don’t worry, like we said, SchoolMatchPro.com is here to help.

First, let’s dispel the myth of “fitting in.

While traditional in-person college may indeed be uncomfortable for some of us…

With online college, you don’t have to worry about going to a physical classroom. See, the whole “fitting in” thing is no longer a problem when you’re not forced to sit next to someone who’s a decade younger than you.

With online college, you’ll take your courses from the comfort of your own home (or wherever else you have an internet connection) and you won’t feel pressured to interact with the younger generation. Of course, you still can, but with online college you don’t have to.

And you may actually find new friends your own age your classes.

A recent study showed that about 6% of all college students are 40 years old or older. So, if even if your over 40, your virtual classes may have other students just like you.[2]

Now, it may have been a while since you were in class. And prepping for school can be stressful. So here are some quick tips to help you on your pathway to graduation. Ready?

• Plan out your study time. Like everything else in life, a good plan can lead to good results. Be sure to block out at least a couple hours a week to dedicate completely to studying. You’ll find that a well-organized study calendar can be an immense help.
  
  
• Plan your course schedule to fit your life. Unlike traditional college courses where you have to physically show up at a certain time, many online courses allow you to take class on your own schedule. With that in mind, you’ll want to take the number of classes you can handle. There’s no need to overwhelm yourself.
  
  
• Don’t forget your family. One of the hardest things about going back to school is balancing your family life. Online college gives you much more flexibility when it comes to this, and by making time for them, you can be more focused on school when it comes to study time. It’s all about balance.
  
  
• Interact with your professors. While many professors are used to dealing with younger people, you may find that they actually love chatting and helping adults too. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions, or to ask them for additional help. That’s what they’re there for.
  
  
• Keep your eye on the prize. Like we said earlier, people who earn a college degree generally make more money than people who haven’t. So don’t forget why you’re back in school, and don’t give up. The fruits of all of your hard work could really pay off once you graduate.

Make your plan and stick to it. If you do, chances are you could graduate and go on to a more fulfilling life.

Just don’t believe the naysayers. It’s your life and your education, not theirs.

[1] How does a college degree improve graduates’ employment and earnings potential? - APLU

[2] Going Back to School After 40 | The Motley Fool