Back to School season is upon us yet again. If you’re a New Yorker like myself (or if you live in a city that’s almost as crowded as New York) you’re gonna miss that extra 30 minutes of sleep every day, light traffic, and less of a crowed during your rush hour commute on public transportation. We’re not the only ones who may dread Back to School season. Anyone who is employed full time with plans to go back to school also have a laundry list of things that they are going to have to compromise on. Don’t fret though, we’re covering all bases today. Use this guide as a planning checklist to help you prepare for your new journey as a student!
- If you haven’t already done so, make sure that the school that you plan to attend is accredited, especially if you plan to attend an online program.
One of the worst things to discover is that your credits are non transferable or that you do not qualify to obtain a license or certification in your field because your school does not have the proper accreditation. Don’t just take your school’s word for it. You can start by visiting the U.S Department of Education’s website (https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home) to search for your school. Their website also includes a list of accrediting agencies that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. - Reach out to your Human Resources department or Union to inquire about any tuition assistance programs or grants.
Every penny helps so don’t talk yourself out of applying because you deem the amount to be too little. (Bonus tip: don’t forget to apply for financial aid and scholarships even if you’re not sure if you’re going to go throw with your plan to go to school. the earlier you submit your application better. Scrambling at the last minute to fund your studies can be extremely stressful). - Make sure you gain some insight to the availability of all classes. Don’t just focus on your 1st semester or academic year. You should know in advance if all classes will be offered days, evenings, nights, or on weekends so that you’re not surprised half way through the completion of your program. Don’t count out off seasons either (such as summer, and winter break).
- Consider your commute time.
After a loooong day of work, you have to leave time for studying. Studying will feel nearly impossible if you get off of work at 5, and have a 2 hour commute to and from a 3 hour class class. Which brings us to our next point… - Incorporate Work-Life Balance into your plan!
Allow time to unwind, study, tend to your family, and more importantly sleep. Life has a way of throwing unexpected curve balls our way. If your plate is already spilling over from too much stress or over exertion, you’re bound to burn yourself out when even the smallest of curve balls gets thrown into the mix. - Remember: Slow and steady wins the race!
Once you’ve sorted out the planning phase it should be smooth sailing from here, at least on your part it should be. We still have to account for those frustrating interactions with the Bursar’s Office, and Academic Advisers. If you conducted thorough research as suggested then scheduling your classes shouldn’t be too stressful since you have a pretty good idea of what you’re working with. Don’t rush to get your degree by piling on more classes than you can handle. Flunking out is much worse than taking an extra semester or 2 to get your degree.
Part of Career Planning includes planning to pursue Education (degree, certification, license, internship, etc.) If you would like assistance with creating your personalized Career Plan, schedule a coaching session by clicking on the link below.
https://thecareerconqueror.as.me