Going Back to College? Here’s What You Need to Know

You’re thinking about how to go back to college, but where do you begin? Which program suits you? How will you afford tuition?

These are all important — and common — questions for anyone looking to finish their degree. Returning to the classroom, whether in-person or online, can be daunting. However, there are nontraditional programs, such as the Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA), specifically designed for those who want to complete their degree while juggling career and life commitments.

This guide will tackle the common challenges of returning to college and explain how programs like the RBA degree can be a great option.

The Importance of Returning to College After an Extended Absence

Returning to college may feel overwhelming, but it often presents invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth. Let’s explore some of the most beneficial reasons and their potential impact on your future.

• Career advancement: A bachelor’s degree can open doors to new opportunities, promotions or even career changes. Regardless of your professional interests and goals, it’s an important investment in your future.
• Personal growth and development: Obtaining a degree is more than just about fulfilling the required coursework and accepting a diploma. Your journey will involve discipline, dedication and hard work, all of which can help you grow both professionally and personally.
• Increased earning potential: Positions that require a bachelor’s degree generally pay more than those that don’t.
• Competitive edge: Even if a degree isn’t required for a particular position, it can still enhance your resume and help you stand out from other candidates, potentially giving you the competitive edge to land your desired job.
• Achieving personal goals: If you’ve always wanted to obtain a bachelor’s degree, you still can! Life happens, but with the right program and support system you can achieve your academic goals.
• Professional networking: College gives you the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, many of whom may become lifelong friends or valuable professional connections.
• Can provide a fresh start: Going back to school can offer an exciting opportunity to begin the next chapter of your life.

How to Overcome Common Hurdles When Returning to College

For many, returning to college comes with its fair share of challenges. From financial restraints and personal commitments to battling the stigma of being an older student, these obstacles can create physical, mental and emotional strain. Let’s break down some of the more common challenges and share tips on how to manage them effectively.

The challenge: Balancing work, family and other commitments

Tips and solutions: Students who return to college later in life typically have other commitments, whether it’s managing a job, caring for children or supporting other family members. One of the best ways to effectively manage your time is to create a schedule so that you can visually map out your classes, work hours, family time and other important commitments. Be sure to prioritize tasks for the week, and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from family and friends. Additionally, consider a part-time online degree program, which offers the flexibility to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. This option often makes it easier to fit education into your life.

The challenge: Paying for tuition and other expenses

Tips and solutions: A college education can be an expensive investment with the price of tuition, books, supplies and transportation adding up. The good news is that there are opportunities and resources that can help with affordability. Explore financial aid options by looking into scholarships, state and federal grants and student loans.

One of the great benefits of a Regents Bachelor of Arts program is that knowledge gained from your work and life experience can count toward college credit. Courses taken through the U.S. Armed Forces, business, industry and hospital schools may be acceptable if they are recommended by the American Council on Education. You can also receive credit for documented military training.

Lastly, if you have a job, reach out to your human resources department since some employers offer tuition assistance or reimbursement.

The challenge: Adapting to academic demands and completing assignments on time

Tips and solutions: You should treat going back to school like any other commitment or appointment: In other words, plan specific times for attending class, writing papers and studying. Use a planner or digital calendar to write down due dates, stay organized and keep yourself on track. Also, make sure to utilize your university’s resources — such as academic advising, one-on-one support, post-graduate assistance, tutoring and the writing center — when you need them.

The challenge: Learning new online platforms and different types of technology

Tips and solutions: Technology is constantly evolving, especially in the classroom, and colleges and universities are continually investing in the latest tools and resources to support both students and staff. Most online learning platforms are relatively intuitive, but don’t be afraid to ask for assistance from your school’s IT department — or even your professor or fellow peers.

The challenge: Adjusting to a possible feeling of “being out of place” as an older student

Tips and solutions: While you may be older than most of the undergraduate student population, it’s important to remember that you are not alone and everyone’s educational path is different. The RBA degree is specifically designed for nontraditional students, allowing them to customize their education by choosing an area of emphasis that fits their interests. Plus, as an RBA student, you’ll be learning alongside others in similar circumstances. It’s also important to take advantage of student resources on campus, which may offer support groups and additional assistance.

The challenge: Managing your physical and mental well-being

Tips and solutions: It’s common to feel overwhelmed and burned out, especially when going back to school, but there are ways to effectively manage stress and anxiety. Most higher education institutions offer counseling and health and wellness services. Physical activity, even if it’s just walking for 10 or 15 minutes a day, can do wonders for your strength and endurance, helping to reduce stress and tension. Remember — it’s important to take care of yourself. This includes eating a healthy diet, obtaining an adequate amount of sleep, making time for your hobbies and connecting with others. Also, consider the science-backed benefits of yoga and meditation.

Additional Tips for Success

Looking for more strategic insights that will help you succeed? Keep the following tips in mind:

• Find a degree program that aligns with your career goals and personal needs. Look for one that fits your schedule and learning style. Be sure to explore online or hybrid options, especially if you have a busy lifestyle or are considering a program that isn’t nearby.
• Connect with your instructor and peers. It’s important to build relationships with the people in your program. Engage in learning opportunities — like joining a study group — and reach out to your instructors if you have any questions or feel overwhelmed at any point.
• Set realistic goals. Use the common S.M.A.R.T acronym when defining your goals — make sure they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound.
• Stay positive! It may be challenging to adapt to student life again, but be patient and give yourself credit for making this important life decision.