You’re a busy mom and you’re thinking of returning to college but you have some reservations about what it will be like being back in a learning environment. That feeling is totally normal. The good news is there is no age limit for getting an education and many of the myths about adult learning are just not true. Interested to hear more? The following are four of the most common things we hear about returning to college as a mature student.
It’s Too Expensive
Yes, getting an education is expensive at any age but it’s not too expensive. Ask your employer if there is a possibility that they will be able to cover some of the fees of the course you want to take. Financial aid is also available in the form of student loans from private lenders so take some time to consider your options, says Earnest. Family and friends might also be more than willing to add to a fund that will help you buy books and other necessities. The idea is to make the transition back to education as smooth as possible in terms of finances so take advantage of the options that are available to you.
I’m Too Old
It’s normal to feel out of place among young students enjoying their first sense of freedom in the world. But this shouldn’t put you off. The number of adult learners returning to education (NPR) increases each year, so you never have to feel alone. There are support groups in most big colleges that will provide a safe place where mature students can connect and interact with one another.
It Will Be Too Much to Cope With
Raising kids, work-life, family life, and personal issues; add education to that list and it may all seem a little overwhelming. Have confidence in yourself and create a support network that will help you juggle all commitments successfully so that everything is balanced nicely. Once you do that, you don’t have to worry about making compromises just because you want to better your education and build a better future for yourself and your family.
I Won’t Be Able to Keep Up
Don’t let this thought concept take hold and influence your decision. If anything, having the life experience you have will give you a big advantage over younger students who are coming straight out of high school. You already know what it takes to succeed and you’ll be able to leverage the skills you have to keep up with the pace of work.
It’s Too Late
It’s never too late for anything in life, especially education. If fact, there is no better time than right now to return to college and get the degree you want so badly. Ignore the opportunity now and your future self will look back and think, “why didn’t I just do it?”. Don’t live with that regret – leverage all the opportunities that are in front of you and you’ll build the life that you’ve always dreamed of.