Looking for Guidance on Returning to College
I’m excited to share my plan to complete my bachelor’s degree after taking some time away from school. I’m 32 and ready to dive back into my education, aiming to transfer 54 credits to speed up the process.
I had a few years of community college while juggling various sales jobs to fund my education. Unfortunately, my focus shifted away from academics as I pursued higher-paying positions. My majors have changed multiple times—from Business Management to Computer Information Systems, and then to Liberal Arts in 2020.
I was fortunate enough to secure remote work during the pandemic, most recently in a sales role that offered a base salary and commission. However, over time, the job became monotonous and stressful, leading to my recent job loss due to performance issues. This setback gave me the chance to reflect and decide it’s time to return to school—not just for an associate’s degree, but to earn a full bachelor’s degree.
I’m looking to leverage my previously earned credits from community college to minimize extra coursework and expedite my degree. My goal is to pursue a career that not only pays well but also gives me a sense of accomplishment.
I would greatly appreciate recommendations for a suitable major and advice on enrolling in an online university that will allow me to make the most of my existing credits. Here’s a summary of what I hope to transfer:
- Business Organization and Management – 3 Credits
- Principles of Statistics – 3 Credits
- Business Law I – 3 Credits
- Introduction to Microcomputer Applications – 3 Credits
- Microcomputer Operating Systems – 3 Credits
- Introduction to Macroeconomics – 3 Credits
- English Composition I – 3 Credits
- English Composition II: Introduction to Literature – 3 Credits
- Health, Behavior, and Society – 2 Credits
- Growth of American Civilization I (Colonial Period to Reconstruction) – 3 Credits
- Elementary Arabic I – 4 Credits
- Elementary Arabic II – 4 Credits
- Mathematics for the Liberal Arts – 3 Credits
- Mathematics in Contemporary Society – 3 Credits
- Weight Training – 1 Credit
- Space, Astronomy, and Our Universe – 3 Credits
- Space, Astronomy, and Our Universe Laboratory – 1 Credit
- Psychology – 3 Credits
- Speech Communication – 3 Credits
Thank you in advance for any insights or recommendations you can share! I really appreciate your help! 🙏
It’s great to hear that you’re looking to return to college and finish your bachelor’s degree! Completing your degree can open up many opportunities, and leveraging your existing credits is a smart way to streamline the process. Here are some suggestions that might help you as you consider your next steps:
1. Choosing a Major:
Given your background in sales and your varied interests, here are a few majors that could complement your existing credits and lead to promising career paths:
Business Administration: This major often allows a lot of flexibility and typically includes courses that align with the credits you’ve already earned (like Business Law and Principles of Statistics). It also frequently leads to roles in management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
Liberal Studies or Interdisciplinary Studies: These programs allow you to tailor your education to reflect your interests and strengths, potentially combining elements from business, communication, and psychology. This can be especially beneficial if you want to keep your options open.
Communications: With several credits in English Composition and Speech Communication, a major in Communications could leverage your skills in writing and speaking—important assets in any career, particularly in sales and marketing.
Psychology: If you’re interested in understanding human behavior, especially after work in sales, psychology can open doors in fields like counseling, human resources, or marketing.
2. Finding an Online University:
Many online universities offer accelerated programs that can help you finish your degree quickly. Look for accredited institutions that provide:
Credit Transfer Policies: Ensure they have a generous policy on accepting transfer credits. Some schools will give you full credit for your community college classes, while others may not.
Fast-Track or Accelerated Programs: Some universities offer accelerated formats where you can complete courses more quickly (like 8-week terms instead of 16-week). This allows you to finish sooner.
Support Services: Look for programs that provide academic advising, transfer credit evaluations, and resources to help you succeed online.
3. Maximizing Your Credits:
When applying, consider the following strategies:
Contact Admissions/Advisors: Reach out to prospective schools to discuss your situation and see how your credits can be applied toward specific majors. They can sometimes suggest the best path based on what you’ve completed.
Articulation Agreements: Some community colleges have agreements with local universities that facilitate credit transfer, often making the process smoother.
Focus on Electives: If you find a program that aligns with your credits well but might require additional coursework, see if there are electives you can take that will fulfill multiple requirements.
4. Setting Goals:
Once you choose a major and school:
Set a Timeline: Lay out a timeline for completing your degree. Setting specific goals for each term can help keep you on track.
Stay Engaged: While online learning is convenient, it can be easy to lose motivation. Find ways to stay engaged, whether through study groups, networking events, or campus activities (virtually or in-person).
It’s commendable that you’re taking this step, and with your determination, you can achieve your goal. Good luck with your journey back to school, and feel free to ask if you have more questions!