It is officially September and the shops have swapped out their summer inventory for back to school. So long beach umbrellas, hello backpacks and dorm room essentials.
Hampers, white boards, twin x-long bedding, etc. — the shops are filled with things for first-time college goers. Some of the items being sold are things you wish you had when you went to college. It seems college students these days have options that we never had. Where were the color options or cool gadgets back then, right?
If all of the back to school supplies have you daydreaming about college again, we understand.
Although you may not want to repeat freshman year, college was an exciting time. Choosing what major to study and learning from field experts is exhilarating.
And makes you think about going back…
First you must know the degree options and the benefits of pursuing another degree and then learn how to balance your career and your school work.
Continuing Education: University Degree
Going back to school full time is a big commitment which makes it a hard decision to make.
How will you manage the school work on top of your already demanding work day? What’s the cost? Is it worth it?
What will another degree give you in the long run — A faster promotion? Better pay?
There are many questions to answer for yourself. Many organizations prefer a higher education degree for higher ranked positions.
We believe that if you have the motivation and determination to earn another degree, do it. Do not hesitate. No matter the monetary benefit. It will be an extra feather in your cap, if nothing else!
However, it is a big commitment as you know so be sure it is right for you. Research the best school and program of study.
Are you interested in a master’s or doctorate degree? If there aren’t any programs that suit what you are looking for, would you opt for another bachelor’s degree? Keep in mind that a bachelor’s program may be more robust in the classes it offers but will also require a slew of general studies classes.
Your GenEds do not transfer from one bachelor’s degree to another.
There are many online or hybrid programs too which are catered to adult learners who have full-time jobs.
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Career & Education Balance
Allow your employer to be part of your academic journey. Alert them to your intentions. Although you aren’t asking for anything, the openness will relieve you of future stress in balancing the two.
Reassure them that your work is your first priority but make them aware that you will not be taking on any more responsibilities from work in the near future; your time away from work will be devoted to your studies.
They will be pleased that you told them and should encourage you. Setting expectations in the beginning will avoid misunderstandings and disappointments in the future.
Once you make your employer aware, you need to keep the promise to yourself too. Now more than ever, your ability to time block is important. If you weren’t a good time manager before, now is the time to learn.
When your workday is complete, you need to leave the office and divert your attention to your school duties.
If you have the flexibility, take your time in earning your new degree and pursue one class at a time in the beginning to understand the workload. You can always take on more if you see fit. This will prevent you from being burned out and overwhelmed too soon.
Continuing Education: Benefit
While you research programs and schools, be sure to find out what programs your own employer offers. Many give incentives to go back to school, including grants and scholarships!
If your employer does offer a program, be mindful of any time constraints and/or contractual requirements it may have. You may be given a limited time to finish a degree or be asked to work for the same organization for a set period of time once you have earned the degree.
There may also be a penalty for not finishing.
Being prepared and knowing the fine print will prevent any surprises later on, especially after you have devoted time and money.
Education is open to all ages. It’s never too late to go back to school. From everyone at Mercury Clothiers, best of luck! We are your number one fans.
Are you a lifelong learner? Leave a comment for us below if school excites you! We’d love to hear about your continuing education journey!
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