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Going back to school as an adult can be exciting and inspiring, but it can also be a time of uncertainty with questions that come up throughout the journey. Here are some common questions we’ve heard from adults returning to school.

Question

Can I even do this? Do I have what it takes?

Answer

As adults, we often feel like we’re supposed to have everything all figured out—change is daunting! But by taking on this change, you’re stepping out of your comfort zone and braving a new world of possibility. You can always connect with a Success Coach to explore how to overcome the challenges you might face when it comes to returning or to lean on throughout your journey. We’re here to cheer you on!

Question

How do I balance school with my current life responsibilities and schedule?

Answer

For many, adding a whole school schedule—that includes class time, working time, studying, and more—to your already busy life can seem like a monumental task, but start with taking a step back to see how and where you’re spending your time and energy. What things can you say “no” to or ask for help with to find the time and energy to dedicate to school? Then, create a schedule so that you have dedicated time to make progress toward your goals. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s about taking steps forward, whether big or small.

Read more about balancing the many facets of your life here.

Question

Will I be the oldest in my classes? Will there be anyone I can relate to?

Answer

You might be older than your traditional student classmates, but that comes with its advantages. Everyone’s there for the same reasons—learning and growing—so embrace that common ground. Students of all ages may be in your classes, and one shared goal you have is completing your degree. You’re bringing your unique set of experiences which are valuable to their learning, too. Take it as a chance to learn from a new, different group of people.

Question

Can I afford to go back to school?

Answer

There are many options for financial aid that you can look into, like scholarships, grants, loans, and work study programs, that can pay for—or at least help pay for—your schooling. Some schools also provide specific programs for adult learners, like on-site childcare, tuition for seniors age 60+, or financial aid for unexpected expenses like needing a new computer or eyeglasses to help offset costs.

Read about the different types of financial aid and how it works here.

Question

Can I afford not to go back to school?

Answer

This is a great question because it goes a bit deeper. Here are a few questions to consider journaling about or talking with a trusted friend or family member about: What would getting a degree help you do? How does this degree connect to your current career or future career goals? How would you describe how you’d feel after earning your degree? What new career path are you interested in exploring?

There are many factors that play a role in your decision to go back to school, but thinking about future-you can help you visualize what it would take to get there.

Question

How can I stay motivated?

Answer

Getting motivated doesn’t always happen overnight—often, it takes a little up-front work and a vision to keep you going. But like anything, motivation is a skill that can be learned.

First, start small. Tackle one goal at a time. It will give you an opportunity to focus on what is in front of you and take one step at a time toward your bigger, long-term goal.  feelings of anxiety and stress.

Review your progress regularly and celebrate the things you’ve accomplished along the way. Nothing is more motivating than seeing how far you’ve come and what you’ve already achieved.

Try moving your body, starting with five-minute increments. Studies have shown that increasing your physical health can also enhance your mental health.

Don’t be so hard on yourself! It’s ok to have moments that feel unproductive or when you feel stuck. When—not if—that happens, take a deep breath, focus on something that brings joy, and if you need help, ask! Reach out to a friend or a ReUp Success Coach to help you get unstuck. 

Question

Will I be able to avoid burnout?

Answer

Burnout is real. But being aware of it and taking steps in advance to prevent it from happening are huge advantages in making sure you don’t get to that point. Here are a few questions you can ask yourself: What do I need to make me feel calm and less stressed? What are some resources or tools that I can utilize to help avoid burnout in the future?

Some practical next steps could include managing your energy, practicing self care, building positive habits, and more.

Mostly, you want to understand that progress does not equal perfection. Taking steps towards taking care of yourself throughout the journey is just as important as getting your coursework completed. There’s only one you, and you got this!