Tips for Going Back to College

Whether you’re preparing to go to school for the first time since high school, or you’re looking for a major change in your career, going back to college is an important step. In addition to worrying about feeling out of place, you might also be worried that you’ve forgotten how to be a student! It’s very different from a typical job, so here are a few tips to get you through the transition:

Prepare

Unlike most workplaces, colleges won’t necessarily provide the supplies you need for your classes. Make sure you check any lists of required supplies and books beforehand so you’re ready to jump into things on your first day. If you’re feeling anxious about getting around the campus, check the college’s website for a map or jot down notes to help you on your first day. Make sure you have your class schedule handy and that you have your transportation figured out, too.

Be Honest With Yourself

Are you the type who can focus on the task at hand, even with the tv playing in the background and people talking around you? If you’re not, consider planning to do your homework and studying on campus whenever possible. You’re paying for your education – it’s your job to make sure you get the most out of it!

Take Advantage of Resources

If your school has an advisor, career center, or offers studying workshops, use them! Those resources are there to help you succeed. Some schools might even have services specifically set up to help adult students returning to school after a long time in the workforce. Studying and taking notes might seem like simple things, but there are strategies that might make your life just a little bit easier!

Stay Organized

Just like at work, you might have a lot of things on your plate at once while you’re in college. Between staying on top of homework, studying for classes, and meeting deadlines, a college student has a lot of things to keep track of. Make it a bit easier by investing in a nice, practical dayplanner in which you can jot down important information and dates.

Reach Out

If you find yourself struggling, don’t stay silent. Most schools have resources in place for students who are struggling to keep up. If you’re having a hard time with a class, consider speaking to the instructor. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness or failure- it shows that you’re determined to do well!

Relax

If you’re worried about being the oldest student in your classes, stop! Even if it makes you uncomfortable to be the oldest person in the classroom, no one else is even noticing. Your classmates could not care less about your age, because it doesn’t impact their education.

Don’t let it impact yours!

If you’d like to read about how I made a successful career change, read How I Changed My Career.