I’m going back to school and it’s a big deal. I have QUESTIONS

Going Back to School: Seeking Guidance

Hey everyone!

I’m excited to share that I’m planning to go back to school, and I have a few questions.

Here’s my situation: I have a GPA of 1.4 and haven’t attended school since 2015. I didn’t graduate because my stepfather wouldn’t reenroll me, so my transcript indicates “forced dropout.” Just to clarify, my home situation was quite difficult, which is why I struggled with school back then.

Now, I’m focused on my future and determined to pursue an education that will lead to a fulfilling career. I’m currently working on my GED through a program at a school where I hope to study dental hygiene.

I understand that I need to finish my GED, but I’m unsure how to proceed with enrolling in community college after that. Do I need a higher GPA to get in? Also, being on a tight budget, I’m curious about financial aid options. I recently found out that student loans and financial aid are different, which was a revelation for me!

Any advice or insights you can share would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

One Reply to “I’m going back to school and it’s a big deal. I have QUESTIONS”

  1. First of all, I want to commend you for taking such a courageous step to go back to school and prioritize your future. It’s understandable to have questions, especially with everything you’ve been through, so let’s break this down.

    1. Completing Your GED: It’s great that you’re already working on your GED! Focus on finishing that first, as it will be a crucial step in your educational journey.

    2. Enrolling in Community College: Many community colleges have open enrollment policies, meaning you can typically enroll even with a low GPA or without a high school diploma. Once you finish your GED, you should be able to apply. Check the specific requirements for the college you’re interested in, as they may vary slightly.

    3. Financial Aid: You’re right—student loans and financial aid are different! Start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This will determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants which you won’t have to pay back, work-study options, and loans. Community colleges often have specific financial aid offices that can help guide you through this process.

    4. Scholarships: Look into scholarships specifically for non-traditional students, those returning to school, or even scholarships for students in the dental hygiene program. This can greatly reduce your financial burden.

    5. Support Services: Since you’ve faced significant challenges, I recommend looking into any support services that the college may offer, such as counseling, tutoring, or mentorship programs. They can help you navigate this transition and provide additional resources.

    6. Prepare for School: Once you’ve got your GED and are enrolled, consider setting a study schedule or joining study groups. Staying organized and connected with your peers can make a big difference in your success.

    7. Connect with an Advisor: Most colleges have academic advisors who can help map out your path to becoming a dental hygienist, including any prerequisite courses you might need.

    Remember, it’s never too late to pursue your education, and you’re taking the right steps! Stay positive and reach out to people who can support you along the way. You’ve got this!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Related Post

Seems college degree credential more sought after than actually knowing anything.

It appears that having a college degree is often prioritized over actual knowledge or skills. Am I alone in thinking that degrees on resumes serve mainly to keep applications from being dismissed right away? It seems that employers care more about the credential itself than about the applicant’s understanding or expertise. A degree doesn’t necessarily […]

How do I tell my roommate I don’t like the big light?

How to Discuss Lighting Preferences with Your Roommate Living with a roommate can be a rewarding experience, but it often comes with its own set of challenges—one of which might be differing preferences for lighting. If you find yourself bothered by the constant use of a bright overhead light while your roommate relaxes in bed, […]

Should I report my professor to the counselor?

Navigating Ethical Concerns in the Classroom: A Personal Experience Recently, I experienced an unsettling moment in my algebra class that has left me pondering the ethical boundaries of teaching. During a math lab session, our professor decided to pull up an assignment from a classmate on the smart board. Initially, I assumed it was just […]