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.
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.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?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?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.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.
Going back to college as a working adult can feel intimidating. Questions about your capabilities and competence might bounce around in your head. How will you fit in? How will you manage the workload and perform at your best? And most importantly, how will you handle everything else in your life?
Returning to school as a working adult comes with added pressure. You’re balancing real responsibilities—paying the bills, working a 9-5 job, possibly raising kids, and maintaining relationships. However, it’s important to remember that working through college is just a season in your life. You can achieve your goals and fulfill your dreams with determination and planning.
You’re not alone
As a working adult, you’re not the only one returning to school. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), 33% of the 18 million undergraduate students in the U.S. are over 25, and 22% are over 30.
Additionally, research by UCLA’s Professor of Education Mike Rose shows that nearly 45% of U.S. postsecondary students did not enroll directly after high school. While everyone’s path is unique, being a non-traditional student is far more common than you might think.
Build a Support System
In any long journey, having support makes the process easier. As you begin your coursework, identify the people who will walk alongside you. This could include your spouse, parents, professors, or advisers.
Additionally, connect with your classmates within your degree program. Lean on one another and share your challenges. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone.
Develop Camaraderie
If you only show up to class, turn in assignments, and check the box, you’ll miss out on a lot. Your peers are a valuable resource, both personally and professionally.
Take the time to engage with your classmates, build connections, and learn from their experiences. Just like you, they bring unique insights and perspectives that can help you grow.
Learn to Study with Distractions
Distractions are a part of life, especially for a working adult. Whether it’s text alerts, Facebook notifications, or looming work deadlines, staying focused can be challenging.
Lean on your support system to help manage responsibilities. Dedicate specific times to schoolwork, even if it means early mornings or late nights. Stick to a routine that allows you to focus on your studies without interruptions.
Focus on What You Can Control
Balancing work, school, and life is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on what you can control and avoid stressing over things you can’t. Manage your time wisely, complete your assignments, and do your best.
Don’t let tomorrow’s worries rob you of today’s progress. Your coursework may feel overwhelming, but the results are worth it.
Take Time to Relax
Your well-being is crucial as a working adult. Take mental health breaks and allow yourself time to decompress. While your friends and family will understand your busy schedule, don’t neglect your relationships. Remember, going back to school is a life-changing decision. By focusing on one step at a time, you can conquer the challenges and achieve your dreams.
Amberton University is designed for the working adult. Our flexible courses create a supportive environment for non-traditional students to thrive. For a glimpse into how Amberton worked for one alumnus, click here to watch the video.
Paying for your education doesn’t have to be a scary undertaking. At Amberton University, our pay-as-you-go system allows students to graduate without debt. However, we make navigating the financials as simple as possible for those who need to take advantage of student loans.
Amberton believes in affordable education. We offer courses for $ 900 per 3 credit hours. Pretty great, right? This rate applies to undergraduate, graduate, in-state, and out-of-state students, as well as lecture and distance-learning courses. Even better, we’ve already done the math and the educational cost breakdown for you. Amberton's up-front, cost-effective tuition is specifically designed for working adults. We aim to get you to graduation without being buried in educational debt.
Now that you know how much to expect to pay for your tuition, you can figure out what you need to do to budget for it. Many companies offer tuition assistance or reimbursement as an added benefit for employees. They understand and appreciate how beneficial an educated workforce is. But if your employer isn’t paying for your education, and you can’t afford to pay for it out-of-pocket, there are loan solutions for private universities.
Amberton University provides a Private Loan Worksheet to help you determine your estimated cost of tuition, fees, and books. You must complete the worksheet before applying for a private student loan.
To qualify for private student loans, students must meet the following criteria:
- Student borrowers enrolled at least half-time may apply. Generally, undergraduates are considered half-time if enrolled in 6 hours per session, while graduates must be enrolled in 3 hours.
- The minimum loan amount is currently $1,000.00. Students may be able to borrow up to the full cost of tuition, fees, and books as certified by the University. Amberton will only certify loan amounts for the estimated costs of tuition, fees, and books for the loan period, usually one academic year. Your loan will not be approved to cover living expenses.
A quick Google search will also provide you with various lender options. Find the one that best fits your financial situation and consider interest rates, repayment options, and deferment and forbearance.
Sallie Mae® currently offers loans to qualified Amberton students through the Smart Option Student Loan® program. Students can apply directly online and receive approval within a few hours.
Amberton’s staff are eager to assist you in achieving educational success and satisfaction. You can reach our Financial Aid Office at finaid@amberton.edu or contact Student Services at (972) 279-6511 to help you navigate the process and get your future started!