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Back to School for the Working Adult – What to Expect |
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Articles, How-To's and Interviews -
Personal Finances
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Written by DivaTribe Member Soap Star
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It’s not easy to go back to school, much less while working at the
same time! Here are some tips and thoughts on what to expect when you
go back to school as a working adult.
The Time Commitment
In addition to the time that will be spent in class, you will also
have to make time for homework and for any group work that is
assigned. Depending on the class, your homework time could range from
five to twenty hours per week. A good strategy is to block off at
least one hour a day, every day, to spend on homework.
Keep
your school deadlines in your normal calendar where you won’t forget to
check them each day. If you fall behind, don’t plan to ‘pull an
all-nighter’ – it is too exhausting with the other responsibilities you
have in your life now.
The Expenses
Expenses of going
back to school can add up quickly. In addition to your tuition, you
need to leave room in your budget for textbooks, software, and
occasional meals on the go. Don’t forget to budget for travel to and
from class. You may need a book bag and possibly even a computer or an
internet service provider.
Some ways to save money include
looking for your textbooks at college and public libraries, learn the
hours and locations for the college computer labs, and find out where
your community has free computer access and/or free wireless hotspots.
You may also want to carpool with a classmate to save on gas.
Don’t be shy about applying for scholarships or grants – these don’t
have to be repaid. If you decide a student loan is necessary, be sure
you know what you’re getting into. Research interest rates and know
the repayment rules before you sign anything.
The Technology
Speaking of wireless hotspots, the technology of school today is
amazing. In addition to email, word processing, spreadsheets, and
slide show software, classes today may have an electronic classroom
with chat sessions, instant messaging, and bulletin boards.
If you have technology questions, speak up and ask for help! There
are often tutors available in computer labs, not to mention helpful
classmates, instructors, librarians, and advisors who will be glad to
help you learn the ropes.
The Emotional Impact
You, and
your family and friends, may feel a bit lonely, as your time
commitments change to cover your studies. And watch out for the mood
swings that come with getting positive or negative comments on that
first draft of your essay, or your latest quiz results.
To
help keep an even temper, try to take a ten minute walk when you’re
feeling emotional. Know whom you can turn to and let them know you want
sympathy, not a ‘solution’ to the problem.
The Red Tape
School is more than just learning; there is a lot of paperwork
involved. Talk to your advisor at least once each semester. Make sure
you’re meeting all of your deadlines and requirements. There may not
be anything urgent now, but when the time comes and you need help with
something, your advisor will know who you are and what you have
accomplished.
The Payoff
Remind yourself when things get
tough why you are doing this. How good will it feel when you’re
finished? How will this improve your life?
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