(no subject)

[wander_realtai]

Last year, while I was in California, I began to consider taking some classes online at University of Phoenix or one of those online colleges.  Unfortunately, I quickly realized that the less-than-ideal (read, more down than up) internet at the resort I was employed/housed by would make it impossible to complete any classes.  So I shelved the idea.

I'm thinking about it again, though, especially since a few friends of mine have started classes themselves and it got me thinking about it.  Only, I'm not sure what I'd work toward.  

Like it or not, I'm approaching middle age.  (not.  definitely in the Not Like category)  Do I really want to dedicate towards a master's in anything, this late in the game?  I'll be shuffling around with a cane and mumbling to myself by the time I graduate... LOL.  I'm leaning towards a bachelor's to begin with, and then moving on from there.  But in what?  So far, all I can figure is something in the liberal arts.  Of course, that's... broad.

And then there's the issue of money.  As in, I don't have any, and any job I'll be able to find won't pay much.  I wasn't exactly making a huge salary in California, but my living expenses were so low, being housed at the resort, that I would have easily been able to afford classes, if it hadn't been for the internet problems.  So I might be able to afford classes here. 

I'm not sure.  I honestly don't know what I'd pursue.  I really don't think I want to do anything art-related this time, at least not in the creation of art.  I thought of doing art history and working towards being a curator, but that would take a master's.  I don't think I'm willing to commit to a master's degree just yet-- I'm nervous enough about going back to school at all.

Comments

[annissamazing]

I'm 32 and went back to school two years ago. I'm a half-time student at Kent State University now.

Contact the University you want to attend and see if there is an adult student center or other organization dedicated to helping adult students in a college atmosphere.

Federal financial aid should be able to cover all of your tuition costs. Depending on the amount of money you're currently making, you may also qualify for grants and interest-deferred loans. Don't let the FAFSA intimidate you. It's all online now and they save your info so once you've done it the first time, it takes less than 10 minutes to submit it for future years.

The only part that really matters is finding a program that's right for you and will lead to a degree that you can use. Everything else is secondary, including financing.

If you need any help, advice, or encouragement, let me know. Also, start watching "Community" if you haven't already. It won't really help you with college, but it's funny and topical. :)

[wander-realtai.livejournal.com]

Thanks!

Yeah, I was studying Graphic Design at AIH way back when. I wasn't able to finish due to some circumstances that came up, and got up to my ears in debt with nothing to show for it, and then to top it all off, the stupid school had to go and lose its accreditation, so none of my credits from that college will transfer (I've got some credits from a local community college still, from some basics, so at least there's that). I think if I go back to school, I'd prefer to take classes online and pay up front, even if I'm just taking a class or two at a time. Just take it slow at first. I'm still at a loss as to what to pursue.

[who-in-whoville.livejournal.com]

More education is always a good idea!! : ) There are so many alternatives now that cater specifically to adults, both private and public.

Good luck!

[wander-realtai.livejournal.com]

Thank you! Still in the perusal phase, trying to decide on a direction. But I've been considering a return to college for awhile and it might just be time (as soon as I can find a way to pay for it) :)