BACK TO SCHOOL
When it comes to studying again, the yoyo-ing of ‘should you, shouldn’t you’ is enough to spin anyone out. We’ve done you a solid and written a list to help you make the decision – then stick to it!
So, you’re not loving your current gig. Or maybe you are, but you find yourself thinking maybe there’s something else, maybe there’s something more. Fantasising isn’t cheating. If it is, condemn us all to hell. But – strictly in the world of work – if you’ve been daydreaming about how things could be bigger and better (or just different) it might be time to put the wheels in motion.
Is it time to return to study?
1 – Work out your ‘why’
Before any huge life decisions, get into the habit of asking yourself WHY you’re doing it. It will reduce stress, provide clarity and ensure you’re not being a kook and deserting a job for the wrong reasons. Be really honest: will the qualification get you a new job/higher position? Have you looked into alternative routes to get there? Is the study the key or a stepping stone? Will it develop your skill set further? Is it the most effective way to attain these skills?
2 – Ask yourself whether you have the time/energy/motivation
Studying – whether a degree, a short course or your crush’s Instagram – requires time, energy and motivation. Research and find out what’s expected, map out a schedule (factoring in class time, study time, extra travel, paid work and down time) and check that it’s actually doable.
REMEMBER: You’re juggling other commitments! Commitments that are just as important!
If it doesn’t seem viable, don’t lose hope! See if there is the option for part-time study or summer classes to reduce the workload. Reassess what you’ve made time for and see if there’s any wiggle room.
One positive this whole Covid sitch delivered is that distance education is the new norm. Classes are more flexible, with the potential to attend institutions that are further from home; meaning you can cut your travel time and just generally better keep all your plates spinning.
3 – Assess your cons list
Are you hung up on what other people will think?
The mature age student stereotype is known far and wide – they’ve done ALL the readings, they know the answer AND they are (or appear to be) functioning adults. You’re thinking it’s not your vibe…
Well:
A. Who cares? (No one)
B. Seriously, no one cares! Do your thing! You’re there to broaden your knowledge and skill base, anyone that doesn’t congratulate you for being the bloody ripper you are isn’t worth your time.
C. Mature age students are cool. Fact.
4 – Get used to being WAY less cashed up
Less time to work and the added costs of supplies, textbooks and the actual course will leave you with miles less moolah, but everything is manageable with a proper plan and readjustment of your budget (and expectations).
HECS is available to postpone paying your course fees and the government may sling you some sweet dollars to help with general living costs (recognising that your choice to go back and study, although not ideal financially at the time, will benefit society in the long run).
6 – Be brutally honest about the workload
…then remember you can do it!
You will 100% be doing more work BUT you will 100% be more motivated to do it cos you know it’s what you want! You’ve made sacrifices to be here and, most likely, the lessons will have real-life relevance. You’re here because you want to be, not because you think it’s just the next step.
7 – Consider all your options
Look into the variety of study options that are available – TAFE, uni, private colleges, mentorship programs, internships, apprenticeships. Don’t go to uni just cos you think it’s the only/best option. Don’t do a short course if you’re really after a diploma or degree. Be clear with what you want and then find the best fit for big, beautiful, wonderful you.
Although a smooth transition to that heavenly oasis of a new career is the dream – it is likely just that, an oasis. There will be doubt, regret and lost sleep, but on the other side of that there will be new opportunities, change (as good as a holiday they say) and adventure.
Are you sold? Better get that application in!
Words Grace MacKenzie
