The wide variety of online courses now available have made it easier than ever for anybody looking to go back to school, whether you’re thinking of topping up your previous qualifications to improve your career outlook, or want to embark on a complete career change. And, many professions that are subject to regular change including nursing, accounting, IT, and engineering, for example, require professionals to keep their knowledge up to date and current, which is where returning to school can be handy.
But when you’ve been out of the classroom for some time, suddenly finding yourself as a student again can be daunting. So, make sure that you are fully prepared – we’ve put together some top tips to help you get ready for student life.
Spend Some Time Choosing the Right Program
The sheer amount of learning options out there today can be a minefield to process, so make sure that you don’t rush into a decision – take some time to weigh up your options and ensure that you’re embarking on the right degree or other educational course for your career requirements. It might be worth having a chat with a career advisor at the university or college you’re considering applying to, as they can help you explore the various options and break down the advantages of each in terms of what you hope to achieve. And if you’re studying in order to gain a promotion or improve performance in your current position, speak to your employer to determine exactly what they are looking for.
Determine the Right Kind of Learning Option
The best part of going back to school these days is that there are so many options to choose from when it comes to how you want to learn, and most people find that there’s something out there for them which is a good fit with their lifestyle. Consider a number of factors, such as whether you’ll need to continue working full-time when studying, whether or not you have kids, and think about any other commitments or future plans before you choose whether to study part-time, full-time, evening classes, online, or on campus.
Plan Your Time
Whatever you decide to study – as an engineer in training, a student nurse, aspiring accountant or future entrepreneur, you’re likely going to have less time on your hands than you did before embarking on your back to school journey. So, it’s a wise idea to take some time before you begin to go through your schedule and plan out your time as much as possible. If you tend to work the same hours and have a weekly routine, then look for gaps where you’ve got some time to study and make your time work for you if you’re studying online. If you plan to attend classes on campus, then get prepared early by changing your work hours if you need to, or arranging childcare in advance if you are a parent.
Know Where You Can Get Support
Going back to school as an adult isn’t always as exciting and fun as when you were there as a child or a young university student – after all, you’ve now got other things to think about too, like work, kids, or paying a mortgage. There’s no denying that taking on extra study when you’re already leading a busy life can be stressful, so it pays to know where you can get support if you find yourself needing it. Speak to your family and friends and let them know your plans – and take them up on any offers of help with childcare or just a chat if you need it.
Going back to school is often necessary if you want a career boost or a career change – so make sure that you’re prepared!