New Year, New Career: Make a change in 2016!

We all have dreams, hopes and goals for the coming year.  If yours involve going back to school, congratulations!  It’s a big decision, but as long as you’re prepared, there is no better time than the present to get started.

As an adult student, there are things to consider as you plan your return to the classroom.

Be realistic about the time commitment and energy involved in taking classes. If you have a family, a full-time job, or other commitments, be honest with yourself about how much time you can invest. Decide whether a full-time or part-time schedule is best for your lifestyle.

Figure out how you will pay for tuition, books, and other expenses. Federal Student Aid is often available for those who qualify. There is no age limit for this aid. Go to fafsa.ed.gov to get started on the application process. On top of grants and loans you may be eligible for, many schools offer scholarships to students. Ask your admissions representative to review all available scholarships with you so you don’t miss out on any opportunities.

Update your computer skills. The classroom you are entering is not like the one you left in high school. Technology plays a big role in today’s education. Everything from text books, to grades, to study guides and beyond are housed online. If you’re not comfortable with a computer or tablet, make it a priority. It will be a necessity as you move forward in school and your new career.

Keep a regular schedule. Be prepared to be busy. Have a private, quiet place at home to study. Planning out a schedule is key for adult learners. Particularly for those with families and jobs, keeping your routine will be critical to your success.

Remind yourself of your goals and remember, you’re NOT a teenager anymore. Kids go to school everyday for years. They are accustomed to classroom learning. As an adult, you’ve likely been away from this environment for some time. Relax and take a slow and steady approach. Enjoy being a student again. Remember, this is your choice and the benefits are for you!

Lastly, be a positive role model in your classroom and school.  Respect diversity, and be assertive in the classroom. You will be interacting with younger students. You may have a different lifestyle, attitude, and way of learning than the traditional, fresh-out-of-high-school student.  That’s ok.  They can learn a few things from you too.