I. Mapping the MarketWhere Adults Fit Into the Educational Landscape |
B. How Do I Start? |
First, congratulate yourself for having the initiative to take this important step. It takes courage to confront the fears you might have about returning to school. Planning is the key to making your goals and dreams a reality. Take paper and pen in hand and start a list of questions you have about returning to school. Many items on your list will be answered as you progress through this guide. Once you have read the guide you will know who to contact to answer any questions that might remain.
As you think about your goals, begin to imagine what sort of work you would like to do. List some of the characteristics of those jobs and match them up with things you know about yourself and skills you already have. Think about your interests and how they could be translated into meaningful employment. What transferable skills have you acquired that could be used in new ways? For example, a homemaker who has managed a home budget could transfer this ability to an office environment. Someone who has done volunteer work on a PTA board could use that organizational skill in a work setting.
Don't be afraid to make a mistake or to list skills that you may think unimportant. Many of these "life skills" really are needed in the work world and just listing them will help you feel good about your abilities and potential. Remember that taking action, any action, is the first step to taking charge of your future. Don't be afraid to dream, and don't go for just the "practical" alternatives. Seek a balance between what you really want to do and what seems to be the more useful path. There really are professional opportunities for history or fine art majors, so be sure to consider what you enjoy most.
As you make your lists, include one where you list what you see as barriers to your goals. Listing them will help put them in perspective. Using the suggestions in this guide will help you see that there are ways to overcome each challenge. For many re-entry students, overriding concerns center around issues of child care, financing the cost of education, the fear of not being able to compete and the strain of working while attending school. There are options and opportunities that you may not know about that will make your decisions easier. Your fears and concerns will lessen as you realistically confront them and seek expert advise. Don't be afraid to ask questions and explore new solutions. You can do it!
Finally, include a priority list of important activities and people. Recognize you will be making new choices now that you've decided to return to school, and know you will have to give up some things during the time you are a student. Your priority list will help you keep focused on what you consider really important and help you include essential people and activities in your life.