Back-to-School Advice for Adults

Elementary school kids and teenagers will be back in the classrooms in just a few weeks. Perhaps you, too, are contemplating a return to academia. Here are five essential things to think about if you’re considering seeking higher education.

Your purpose for going back to school
Do you want to further your existing career or switch careers altogether? Or maybe you’re simply looking to enrich your knowledge base in a subject you currently know nothing about. Whatever the reason, it's important to define why you want to return to school and the goals you intend to achieve.

Your finances
There are many costs associated with a return to formal education, including the income you’ll be losing out on during the time you’ll be in school. If necessary, are you willing to take out a loan, dip into your savings or even move back home to pursue higher education? Thoroughly go over your financial situation and consider all these factors when making your decision.

Receiving funding from your employer
If your main goal is to improve yourself at your existing job, then check to see if your employee benefits include tuition reimbursements. This could be a great way for you to return to school without financing it entirely on your own. Keep in mind, however, your employer is expecting a return on their investment. They will likely only approve tuition reimbursements for courses which will clearly enhance your job performance. Also, be aware of any stipulations such as a required minimum grade to be achieved or the length of time you must stay with the company after you’ve completed your studies.

The amount of time you’re able to invest
Anticipate the length of time it will take for you to complete your formal studies. Are you looking to finish as fast as possible or are you alright with the idea of completing your studies at a slower pace? Also, given your other responsibilities, estimate the amount of time you’ll be able to reasonably set aside for school. These are all factors that will help to determine the programs available to you, and whether now is the right time to go back to school.

How your plans will affect your significant other
If you’re in a committed relationship, it’s important to have the support and understanding of your spouse. Talk openly with him about your goals and reasons for returning to school, as well as all the implications, so that both of you are prepared for what lies ahead. Things to talk about include any possible shifts to household duties as well as how each of you feels about living on a lesser income during the period that you’re in school.

How it will change your daily life
Be prepared for an adjustment in your lifestyle. Tuition and textbooks are costly so you may have to scale down on some of the luxuries your full-time income has afforded you thus far. Returning to school is going to require you to dedicate a large number of hours to studying, attending lectures, and working on projects and assignments. The most important thing is to prioritize your commitments so you don’t wind up feeling overwhelmed and exhausted.