How to Begin Again?
Wow, the response to my last post was intense with all those downvotes…
Just to clarify, we’re in a position to make this work. I’ve been to college before, and I’m still young. I was seeking some tips and encouragement, maybe even to hear from others with similar experiences.
I recently left my job to pursue something more fulfilling. I initially planned to start a job I already secured, but after some interviews, I realized none of those positions truly resonated with me. While I enjoy working in daycare and as a medical assistant, it’s just not enough for me.
Now, for the first time, I have a unique opportunity to chase two dreams: I can finally stay home with my kids, which I regret not doing as the primary breadwinner, and I can finish my master’s degree to feel proud of my career.
But how do I go about restarting college? I’ve attended before, and while I didn’t graduate, I know how to transfer my credits. I still have some prerequisites to complete before diving into my 18-month to 3-year program.
I’m eligible for FAFSA and Pell grants. I’m 30, have two young kids, and while I’m married, we haven’t made it legal yet so I’m classified as single in terms of financial aid.
This is the first time I’ve been in a position to stay home while pursuing my education, and my partner is willing to take on a part-time job to help us out. Plus, I finally have a computer now, which opens up online courses that I couldn’t access before.
So, how do I officially restart this process? I have my college login. Do I just follow the on-screen instructions and set up advising appointments? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!
It sounds like you’re at an exciting crossroads in your life, and it’s great that you’re ready to pursue your dreams! Here are some steps to help you officially restart your college journey:
Log In to Your College Portal: Since you already have a login for your college site, this is a great starting point. Look for any updates or announcements that might have come out since you last attended.
Schedule an Advising Appointment: Reach out to an academic advisor. They can help you understand what credits you have that can transfer, which prerequisites you need to complete, and how your timeline for finishing your master’s degree might look.
Check Financial Aid Options: Since you qualify for FAFSA and Pell grants, make sure to apply for financial aid if you haven’t already. You might find additional scholarships or grants specifically for returning students or parents.
Create a Study Schedule: With two young kids at home, it’s important to carve out time to study. Creating a flexible schedule that accommodates both your children’s needs and your coursework will help you stay organized.
Set Up a Support System: Share your plans with your spouse and consider how you can support each other. You might also find it helpful to connect with other students who are in a similar situation, whether through online forums or local groups.
Take Advantage of Online Resources: Since a lot of your classes are online, make sure to familiarize yourself with the platform your college uses. You can find tutorials and resources that can help you get up to speed quickly.
Stay Positive and Patient: It’s okay to feel a mix of excitement and anxiousness about starting again. Remember, many people have stories similar to yours – and have gone on to achieve their goals! Seek out those stories for inspiration.
Focus on Your Goals: Keep reminding yourself why you’re returning to school. Whether it’s to set a good example for your kids or to fulfill a passion, keeping your motivation close will help you through challenges.
You’ve got this! Starting again can be daunting, but the opportunity to achieve your dreams and spend time with your family makes it all worthwhile. Good luck, and remember that your journey is unique to you!