How do I get back into school?

Question

I'm 23 and I really want to get back into the college life. I've been working fulltime since I was 17 and have always put college on the back burner, not by choice, but I don't have any options, but to put work, bills, and first. I have been going part time on and off, since I graduated high school. My general courses are complete, and I'm not sure what to do now. I'm nervous about going to a university. It was a year ago, that I took my last general course at a community college, so I haven't done the school thing in a bit. How do I get back into school? How do I make things work financially, emotionally, and time wise, with both work and school? Another thing, I don't know anyone going to my local university, I don't know how everything works. A lot of courses I took at the community college, I took online, and really haven't met anyone in college. I almost feel like I've missed the boat and that it's too late for me to get back into school, but I really want to try.

Answer 1

Well, by this time, you would almost certainly count as independent from your parents, so you would be eligible for a fair amount of financial aid. I think you will be just fine. A lot of students come back after a few years; some much later than you. A few ideas:

If you are nervous about going to a university, consider going to a smaller school, rather than something huge and overwhelming. You will get to know people more easily and the faculty will be more available to help you if you aren't sure how to navigate college life.

If you have to work 9-5, some universities have "weekend colleges" for people like you. That might be one way of fitting everything in, but realize that you probably won't quite be getting the usual college experience that way.

Talk to people at the school you are thinking of going to - the financial aid office, the people in admissions, the people in the dean's office in the subject matter you are thinking of pursuing. They will have ideas as to how to make things work within the context of their school - schedules, finances, etc. differ by school, and they can tell you how to navigate things there.

Some schools have many "nontraditional" students, to the point where it is the norm. At others, there is often some kind of a program designed to handle the emotional component of this. You should be very proud of yourself for doing this, but I know that a lot of doubts creep in. Know that it is normal, and no, it is not too late for you!

Answer 2

I'm 36 and am attending college on line for the first time. It's never too late to go back to school. I'm taking classes at the University of Phoenix on line. I have found that they are more flexible in hours than a traditional college, even the on line community college classes. You can get financial aid, which they help you to get; and the classes are run in 9 week blocks, back to back. This was my only way that I could attend college as I have 3 young children and help run a business. Neither of the latter has hours that are very stable, so this type of college works well for me. I am enjoying myself and have set up a homework schedule that works well for me. It never hurts to contact an online college and at least check into it more. It might be the best thing you ever did for yourself. Education is the key to a better life. Good luck!

Answer 3

I know it's hard to go back, but you can do it.

I'm 24 and took a full year of courses when I was 18 on a music scholarship. I ended up dropping my scholarship to persue a different major but was only able to complete an additional semester before finances caught up with me.

I have taken two summer courses at the University of Kentucky and an additional regular semester course at a community college.

At 23, I went back to school full time while maintaining a full time job... It really is possible.

The first step is contacting the college. Get an application and some information. Also consider touring the campus. If nothing else, such an activity will get you motivated. Usually, if you schedule a tour, the school will allow you to talk to an admissions councelor.

I know that it seems really overwhelming, but it is truly as simple as applying, getting in and going to class. If you feel uncomfortable, maybe try taking one or two courses at the school you wish to complete a degree. Taking fewer courses will also give you a better idea of what you can handle.

Financially, fill out a FAFSA (google it for the main site). In order to recieve student aid, grants or loans, you have to fill it out. If you talk to anyone in the aid office, they will tell you to fill it out. It's long and can be annoying the first time around, but it really is very worth it. Another important thing regarding finances... look at the cost of tuition. Schools like ITT tech or Kaplan are for profit schools. (see sources for link of for profit schools) Many of the colleges are not accredited and some require that you pay the entire cost of your education upfront. While there are several disadvantages to this, it is also more expensive. Look into state schools. If they are too high, look at smaller state schools. They will definately offer the programs that you are looking for, more support from faculty and staff and a much more affordable education.

Emotionally and time wise, make sure not to over burden yourself. You have a lot more time than you realize, but if you become too stressed or lose too much sleep, you will begin to believe that the degree isnt worth it. One thing that I would recommend is finding a job that allows you to do homework while you work. I work in security which isn't thrilling but saves me time when I have to study. Also, if you get a full time job with the university, you will probably be able to find time to study and many universities offer free courses for full time employees of the college as a benefit.

Don't worry about not knowing people. Remember that many people do not know anyone there. It is easier to make friends in a situation where everyone is trying to make friends. People will approach you more in such an environment. Also consider joining a group that interest you. Groups normally only meet once a week or so and you will meet people with similar interests. It will also look good on a resume later on.

You really haven't missed the boat. While you may feel older, at 23 you will never be the oldest in your class. There are people in their 50's who are just starting school. It really is never too late.

If you have any questions or want any support, just email me.

Good luck.

You can do it....

Answer 4

You should really go back to a good community college and take core classes seriously...

After averaging a good semester(s) (even 2 years) then you can go to a big university and graduate under their name.....

You are really not that old to get back to college life but it will take some time for you to go back to a up-par college-prepared student so just don't rush it.