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Viewing Going Back To College - Is It a Good Idea? Eight TipsGoing Back To College - Is It a Good Idea? Eight Tips
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By Kara Lilly If you have been out of high school for a while and are tired of working in a dead-end career, you probably have considered going back to college. If you are intimidated about going back as an adult and are worried about being the only person over 25, do not despair. According to statistics, since 1998 the number of adult learners has increased by 41%. If you are planning to go back to college, here are a few things to consider: 1. Flexibility is important. Many colleges and universities offer flexible course scheduling with classes during evenings and weekends. This means that if you are holding down a job while going back to school, you can often tailor your courses around your work. If you have children, many institutions offer campus childcare services. A third thing to remember is that you do not have to go back to school full time; your course load can remain minimal. However, if you are looking for financial aid, you may be required to take a specific number of hours. 2. Make more money. The higher your education, the higher your salary. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, employees with a high school diploma averaged $27,915 a year while those with a bachelor's degree earned $51,206. Individuals with master's degrees averaged $74,602. Statistics also show that 75% of future positions will require at least some type of certification or licensure. 3. If you did not graduate from high school, but received your G.E.D., do not despair. Over 97% of colleges accept students with a G.E.D. diploma. 4. Paying for college through scholarships and financial aid is as much of an option for adults as it is for those just graduating from high school. Various forms of grants and low-interest loans are offered regardless of your grade point average, financial need, or credit history. 5. If your community does not have a college and you do not have time to commute, there are now options. You can take courses online or through distance learning programs. Check with the college or university you are interested in to discuss these options. Remember, if you take distance courses through institutes outside of your state, it may be more costly. You will get a financial break staying with a school in state. 6. Do your homework. After identifying what school you would like to attend, make an appointment with the academic advisor. Be prepared to have a few things with you such as old transcripts - that is if you have attended any college prior. Also, do some homework on your intended field of study. The Occupational Outlook Handbook can help you develop an idea of what types of jobs are out there. 7. Be prepared to take entrance exams. Although you are not required to take admission tests such as the SAT or ACT, there are placement tests colleges require for English and Math. 8. Ask whether the institute you want to attend offers credits for life experience. Many schools do this through exams such as CLEP or DANTES. These are called 'life experience credits'. About the Author: Kara Lilly, a librarian for over 15 years in College Park, created the Eduology for schoolwork.org, a leading provider of homework help and college directories, with satellite maps and a comprehensive breakdown of student loans. For more information, please visit http://www.schoolwork.org. Article Source: A Language Guide - http://www.a-language-guide.com |
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