Returning to College

  

                              

College is hard for everyone.  Every student has their own unique challenges.  The first few days you are looking for the right building, classroom, or figuring out a pathway.  As the days, become weeks time management, organization, and being prepared will become factors to being successful.  Everyone is here to succeed but that is challenging,  Most of us have jobs, responsibilities, and possibly children.  As an older adult, returning to college after sixteen long and rapid technology filled years.  What does returning to college look like for me?

It looks like..... a lot of trial and error with technology.  I haven't been "sitting under a rock" but when you don't have to use it everyday....it completely surpasses you.  It has been sixteen years since I was in college.  Laptops were only used for term papers and projects.

It looks like..... making sacrifices.  I am giving up time with my family.  I have two teenage children.  My son has a part time job and my daughter is currently playing volleyball.  Teenagers are more self sufficient, independent, and moody.  However, a mother still needs to be there for everyday teenage problems and life.  

It looks like..... giving up a job that I loved.  I have been a Title I Aide at a local elementary school for five years.  My job required that you be there five complete days a week.  So, this past Spring I made a tough decision.  I knew that I personally wouldn't be able to work full time and attend college.  I felt like no one would be getting the best effort out of me.  

It looks like..... something very rewarding!  I am majoring in Elementary Education.  A field that I wish I would have went into years ago.  All that counts is that I am here now.  I am excited to be setting an example for my children.  It's never too late to do something you enjoy!