How to Begin Anew?
Wow, I didn’t expect such a strong reaction…
Yes, I can manage this. I’ve been to college before, and I’m still young. I suppose I was just looking for some tips, encouragement, or even similar stories.
I recently stepped away from my job, thinking I’d jump straight into another one I had lined up. But as I went through the interview process, I realized that none of those roles felt right. I truly love working with children in daycare and being a medical assistant, but it’s just not enough for me anymore.
For the first time, I see a unique opportunity to pursue my dreams: I want to stay home with my kids—a chance I missed out on as the primary breadwinner—and complete my master’s degree, so I can finally feel proud of my accomplishments.
But how do I restart my college journey? I have experience, but I never graduated. I know how to transfer credits, and I have some prerequisites to complete before my program, which will take 18 months to 3 years.
I qualify for FAFSA and Pell Grants. I’m 30 years old with two young kids, and even though I’m married, we’re not legally recognized, so I’ll be classified as single.
This is the first time I can afford to stay home and pursue my education while my partner works part-time. Plus, I have a computer now—something I lacked last year—and most of my courses are online.
So, how do I officially get started again? I have my college login. Should I just follow the instructions and schedule advising appointments?
It sounds like you’re at a really exciting point in your life, and it’s great that you’re considering going back to school to pursue your dreams! Here are some steps to officially restart your college journey:
Log into Your College Portal: Since you already have a login, start by accessing your college’s online portal. Check for any updates or announcements that might help you understand the current enrollment process.
Review Your Transfer Credits: Look into how your previous credits can be applied towards your new degree. Most colleges have a transfer evaluation tool or an academic advisor who can help clarify this for you.
Schedule an Appointment with an Academic Advisor: Reach out to your college’s advising office as soon as possible. They can guide you through the process of re-enrollment, help you select courses, and provide information on financial aid options.
Apply for Financial Aid: Since you mentioned being eligible for FAFSA and Pell grants, make sure to complete your FAFSA application as soon as possible. This can provide crucial funding for your education, so don’t delay!
Create a Course Plan: With your advisor, outline a course plan that includes prerequisites and any required classes for your master’s program. It’s good to know what to expect in terms of workload.
Familiarize Yourself with Online Learning: Since many of your courses will be online, take some time to explore the platforms your college uses. Familiarize yourself with any tools you’ll need, like learning management systems or communication tools.
Set Up a Study Schedule: Create a balance that works for you between your studies and home life. Make a realistic schedule that accommodates your responsibilities as a mom while allowing you time to focus on your studies.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to fellow students, join online forums, or find study groups. Connecting with others can provide encouragement and help you feel less isolated in your journey.
Stay Organized: Keep track of important deadlines for registration, tuition payments, and course assignments. Organization can make a huge difference in managing your time.
Believe in Yourself: This is a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Remind yourself of why you’re doing this and focus on the progress you will make towards achieving your goals.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Many people have gone back to school after taking breaks and have successfully balanced family life with academic pursuits. You’ve got this! Good luck!