Are you thinking about furthering your education, but concerned that you are “too old”? You’re not alone! Many people in their 30s and beyond let age be an obstacle in their decision to go back to school. However, going back to school as an adult may actually be easier (and more rewarding) than you think.
As a mature adult, you have more life experience and a willingness focus on yourself. You probably also have a better sense of the future that you want to build (we rarely know what we want to do straight out of high school).
Here are a few reasons to go back to school after age 30.
1. You want to start a new career.
Stuck in a job you hate? Or maybe you are realizing you’d rather be doing something else? Going back to school is a great way to get up to speed on the knowledge and skills you need to make the change.
Universities and community colleges usually provide a broad education base, whereas career colleges like Academy of Learning focus on specific, specialized skills and certifications. In a career college, you’ll typically only take the classes that you need, allowing you to complete your program in a much shorter time.
2. You want to advance your current career & be more competitive in the job market.
Some of the biggest reasons adults return to school is to advance their careers, get a promotion, or earn more money.
Degree specializations, diplomas, and/or certifications may not only help you qualify for a higher-level position, but also set you apart from the rest of the crowd of job-seekers. More experience and more knowledge will give you the competitive edge you need to get hired quicker.
3. You want to better yourself.
Perhaps you could care less about buffing up your resume and you’re more interested in personal development. After all, college is not always about getting a job and making money!
Learning can help you find a sense of accomplishment as you master your academic goals.
4. There are more options for higher education.
Out of high school, it’s ingrained in us that “university = higher education,” but that’s not true at all. When it comes to higher education, there are more options now than ever.
Career colleges like Academy of Learning can be a great alternative to the conventional 2-4 years at a Community College or University. Diploma and certificate programs can be completed in just 4-12 months which gives you the financial flexibility to get into the workforce sooner.