The Advantages of Going Back to School as an Adult Learner

You can't teach an old dog new tricks, or so the adage goes. In reality, learning at an older age is easier, more meaningful and can be just as beneficial as when we are young. Current statistics demonstrate that adults going back to school are the fastest growing demographic.

The thoughts of going back to school can be very frightening for those older folks contemplating it. Years ago I had decided I wanted to go back so I got up my courage and ventured over to the local community college to talk to an advisor. When he asked what I wanted to do I replied, "Write, I want to be a writer". I well remember him scoffing at me and replying, "You can't make any money at that". My reply, "I'm making money now; I want to do something I love". Again he scoffed at me. At the time I was so put off by his attitude that I left without signing up for anything. It took many more years before I worked up the courage to go back and try again.

As a late bloomer myself, many people have asked if it was hard going back to school at my age. Frankly, I found it much easier than I remembered school to be. The first thing that helped is that I wanted to be there. I hated school when I was younger. Actually wanting and choosing to be there made a huge difference in the way I viewed school and attending classes. I also enjoyed the interaction with other like-minded adults and being on top of things. I enjoyed the challenges and knowing that I was reaching a goal and appreciated the opportunities. I was also taken more seriously as an adult learner.

The benefits of going back to school for me were many. I found a diversified career that affords me the ability to change jobs often within the same profession. This was helpful as I bore easily. I met wonderful friends and developed professional relationships that have facilitated furthering my career goals along the way. The most meaningful part of going back to school; however, was in the personal satisfaction of knowing that I did it. I didn't want to grow old and one day look back and say, "if only". It was one of the proudest days of my life when I walked down to be pinned as a registered nurse.

If you are considering or dreaming about going back to school I encourage you to do it. Time is passing by either way. You can spend it doing something you've dreamed of doing or you can choose to do nothing. Don't look back one day down the road and think, "if only" when you can look back with personal satisfaction and know you did it!