Whether going back to get a GED or College Degree (undergrad or graduate), it is a big life move.
You find yourself in a situation where you are comfortable to increasing your education level. There are many reasons to do so, and a major one is to get a better position in ones career. Most jobs need a high school degree, a lot of jobs you can be fine with just a bachelor’s degree, and for specialized jobs and upward movement in jobs usually need a graduate degree.
In the end, what you learn while going back to school is always an addition to your life and never a hindrance. The experiences you gain will prepare you for when the same situations inevitably pop up again later in your life.
Top things to consider when deciding to go to back: Time, money, degree type.
Time
No matter what degree you are going for, getting a degree takes time. It will take time away family, friends, you job, and your free time. You will have to carve out time to focus solely on the work and tasks that the degree will call for. If you don’t have the time in your schedule to add something as big as getting a degree then don’t add the stress on yourself.
Money
In the United States education unfortunately is not free. Just like any big financial decision, you need to consider how you are going to pay for your schooling and/or tests. Will you pay out of pocket or will need to take out a loan? Make sure to find all your options. There are scholarships offered for university degree programs as well as Free Application for Federal Student Aid (or FAFSA). When going back to school make sure it wont financially put you in an unstable lifestyle. Saving until you can cover some if not most of the cost will make for one less thing to worry about while taking classes.
Degree
The reason for going back to school is to get something you lack while in your adult work life. Since you will be dedicated time and money to this endeavor, it is important to think carefully about what degree you need in order to succeed in what you want to do in your career. There are jobs that just having a degree is enough but there are others where you need to be specific with your degree choice. If you haven’t already before, think about what you want long term and what degree will help you get what you want.
