You dutifully undertake extra responsibilities at home. You’re a steadfast support, homework checker and study buddy. You’re the piece that really completes the whole puzzle. And you are appreciated.

Generally, the families and support systems of students aren’t recognized until graduation day. Sometimes in the grind of starting and completing a college education, the focus is so dialed in on the student, that the importance and vital support from the family can be overlooked or even taken for granted. So, on behalf of your student, and in advance, you’re the best.

You’re the best because you’re going to deal with a lot, and will still hold it all together.

1. Be understanding

Supporting your spouse’s decision to go back to school might seem like a one-time decision, but you will have to wake up each morning and choose to be understanding. You might even have to make that decision multiple times a day. Going back to school is stressful and can be intimidating. Be reassuring of your partner’s capabilities and understanding of the feelings, emotions, and responsibilities they’ve undertaken. You are the lighthouse in the storm.

2. Allow them to focus

Stepping up to the plate and shouldering more responsibility at home so your spouse can buckle down on their studying and school work will make all the difference in your spouse’s academic success. Ultimately, academic success will result in professional success that will benefit your family for years to come.

3. Celebrate the accomplishments

The best part of being a fan is watching your team win. The best part of being a spouse when your partner is in school is seeing them get an A, pass the class, graduate, and just be excellent overall. Break out those pom poms, boys and girls! Celebrate those achievements! Remind your spouse you are proud of their accomplishments - no matter how small they might be.

4. Stay connected

School is in session and everyone is busy. Dedicate yourself to making time to regularly connect with your spouse. It’s a running theme for any married couple - make time for each other, date your spouse, communicate. But it’s worth repeating. Stay anchored in your relationship. Don’t allow the research papers, presentations, and finals to take over your lives completely.

5. Remember it’s only for a season

College won’t last forever. Eventually, your spouse will complete the graduation requirements and earn their degree. The routine will shift again, and you’ll live more like you did before they enrolled. You’ll have made it through the hardship together. Seasons are temporary, and even though you might not know exactly when graduation day will be, it will come. When choosing to be supportive is harder, remember it’s just a short season of life.

You are special. You are valued. And when graduation day comes at Amberton, it’s as much about you as it is about your student spouse. So put on your game face, and rock this school experience together.

Making the decision to go back to school is nothing to be taken lightly. You’re investing a lot of time, money and sweat into completing your degree. Ask yourself these five questions to figure out if it’s the right move for you.

1. Why do you want to go back or start now for the first time?

Everyone’s reasons for going to school as an adult are different and they’re all valid. First, identify the root of why you’re considering going back to school. It could be that you want to go back as an example for your children, or to fulfill a promise to your parents, or to better your career, or for your own personal achievement. Figuring that out can help you determine if you’re making the decision for the right reasons.



2. What is your motivation level?

Finishing your degree requirements is a marathon, not a sprint. This is especially true for the adult learner. At Amberton, courses are 10 weeks long. This means you can take more classes throughout the calendar year, and the curriculum is slightly condensed compared to the standard college semester. Your motivation level is typically highest when you’re at the start of something strenuous. Are you mentally prepared to work through the grind until Graduation Day?



3. How is your support system?

Adult students have more to deal with than just going to lectures and completing their course assignments. Many of you have jobs and families that demand your time and attention. They cannot be slid to the back burner. Before you make the decision to enroll in college, evaluate who your closest supports will be. How will they help you? Which additional responsibilities and tasks will they adopt? Can you share the load with others during this season of your life?



4. Will having a degree bolster your career?

This is a big question to answer. Will your promotional opportunities be dependent on whether or not you have a degree? If you can definitively say you have reached a roadblock in your career (or will eventually) without a bachelor’s or master’s degree, then you should certainly pursue continuing your education. Make moves to improve yourself and set yourself up for the best successes possible.



5. Can you afford to go back?

With that college education comes college tuition. It is an investment, but it can be a sacrifice to make the payments. At Amberton, our goal is to provide quality education at an affordable price. Many of our students graduate with little to no student debt. Additionally, we offer plenty of options on how you can pay for your education. Employers also recognize the value of having an educated workforce. Check with your human resources department about tuition reimbursement benefits before enrolling.

There will always be reasons not to go back to school. It’s easy to put off. But if working towards your degree is the right move for you, reach out to our advisors. They are ready and willing to help you get started on this exciting path! We are here to support you as you work to reach your goals.

Guess what? School is going to be stressful. Going to school and working and keeping up with your responsibilities is going to be tough. You’re going to be overwhelmed.

Embracing Time Management

But guess what else? There are hundreds of stress management techniques that will help you through the grind. Unmanaged stress is costly. Allowing the pressure to build and your anxiety to run rampant will affect your mental and physical health, and the quality of your production.

1. Mastering Time Management

Manage your time effectively by having a game plan in place to make the most of your 24-hour day. Knowing what you need to get done, how long it will take, and when you’re going to commit to completing it will keep your stress levels as low as they can be.

2. Discover Relaxation Techniques

Learn the best ways to relax yourself. Find what calms you and re-energizes you. Commit to regular, consistent self-maintenance to ease your stress and decompress.

3. Let Go of Minor Issues

Don’t sweat the little things. Focus on the things you can control and let the other things do what they will. Be resilient like a duck, letting the nuisances roll off your back.

4. Cultivate Positivity

Be positive! Give yourself affirmations about how awesome and inspirational you are. Never get down on yourself for making the choice to take the hard road.

5. Maintain Emotional Balance

Avoid extreme reactions. Maintain an even keel, work hard, and enjoy the ride. Don’t let stress cause you to spiral into turmoil. Stress doesn’t have to dictate your life or your college experience. Don’t allow the pressures to decrease your ability to complete your coursework as best you can. You can find a healthy balance while working and going to school. And you’ll do great!