Considering a Shift from Trucking to Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree
I’ve been doing some thinking about my future, and I’m contemplating leaving my trucking job to go back to school for a bachelor’s degree. Just to give you a bit of background, I didn’t put much effort into high school—my final GPA was 2.47, and I scored a 19 on the ACT. I graduated in 2020, and I’m now 23. I never brought homework home and didn’t take school seriously; I often found myself zoning out, sleeping in class, or distracted by other things.
Since becoming an adult, my life has taken a positive turn. I dealt with some serious mental health challenges as a teenager that led to self-destructive behavior, but everything changed after I moved out of my parents’ house and relocated from Wisconsin to Southern California. I’ve found some real success and a renewed outlook on life; I’ve discovered how rewarding it can feel to work toward my goals.
Currently, I work as a Class A truck driver, and I enjoy it. However, I feel like I have more potential. The long hours on the road and the solitary nature of the job can be draining, leaving me exhausted and with little time for anything else. I earn $28 an hour with almost two years of experience, driving locally out of Irwindale, CA, delivering residential building materials around Los Angeles. In contrast, a friend from CDL school who has an MBA disliked his job as a project manager and moved into trucking instead.
One of my main worries about going back to school at a slightly older age is that I might be out of practice with various subjects. Honestly, I don’t even remember how to do basic multiplication, and my writing skills could definitely use some improvement!
I’m particularly interested in forest management and would love to work with organizations like CalFire, BLM, the USDA, or the U.S. Forest Service. The idea of becoming a park ranger or a consultant for a logging company also sounds appealing.
If anyone has insights or advice, I’d greatly appreciate it! Living in California, I know there are many support programs that can help with the costs of education.
It sounds like you’re at an exciting crossroads in your life, and it’s great that you’re considering pursuing a degree that aligns with your interests! Your journey from high school to now shows significant personal growth, and that motivation will serve you well in college.
Here are a few thoughts to consider as you make your decision:
Adult Learning Environment: Many colleges and universities have programs specifically designed for adult learners. You’ll find that some of your classmates are in similar situations, and the environment can be much more supportive and understanding than traditional high school.
Brush Up on Skills: There are plenty of resources available for you to refresh your skills before diving into college coursework. Online platforms like Khan Academy or Coursera offer free lessons on everything from math to writing. This can help you feel more confident when you start your classes.
Community College as a Stepping Stone: If you’re concerned about jumping straight into a four-year university, consider starting at a community college. It can offer a more relaxed atmosphere to get back into academic life and allow you to focus on general education requirements.
Explore Programs: Research programs that align with your interest in forest management and environmental studies. Speak with academic advisors or professors at different institutions to get a better sense of what each program offers and what the career paths look like.
Networking and Internships: As you pursue this path, try to network with professionals in the field. Consider internships or volunteer opportunities with organizations like CalFire or the U.S. Forest Service. This not only helps you gain experience but also builds your resume and connects you with mentors.
Financial Aid: California does have robust financial aid options for residents. Make sure to research grants, scholarships, and federal aid. You might also look into programs specific to environmental studies or your prospective career to see if they offer additional support.
Balance Your Current Job: Since you enjoy your current job and it pays well, think about how you can manage your time. Many students work while attending school, so finding a balance will be essential. You might even consider whether your current job can be compatible with your studies (like looking into part-time, evening, or online classes).
Ultimately, it sounds like you have a passion for the outdoors and a desire to contribute positively to the environment. Follow that passion, and remember that your past doesn’t define your future. You’ve experienced significant change already, so trust in your ability to succeed in this new chapter as well. Good luck!