You're Never Too Old to Go Back to School

When I was 33 I decided to go to college for the first time! It was scary and I had always thought that unless I was rich or had scholarships, I couldn't afford to go. That was, until a friend told me about the Stafford Loan program. Federal student loans are some of the most affordable loans available to students and families, and have lower interest rates than most other forms of financing.

I started out by simply making a call to the college and asking them how to get started. I had to take placement tests, have my transcripts transferred, fill out a ton of paperwork, apply for a Pell Grant, then a Stafford Loan. I was accepted and on my way!

I started out at the community college level but will be going to Florida State University next fall. It's taken me a few years to get where I'm at since I worked full time while attending but it's been worth it. I have this last semester to go until I graduate with my AA in Criminology.

Some people may think that it's all fresh-out-of-high-school students attending college but the average age of a college student nationwide, is 29. The average age at the college I attend is 35. I attend class with all ages and types of students; from 16 year olds taking college credits to women and men in their 60's who have returned to school. It can be a bit challenging at times but I've found that the students are fun to be around and friendly and so far, no one has even looked at me like I'm older than 25. It helps that I look young for my age but it feels good to hear from a teacher, "You're all too young to remember this" or from a student, "I thought you were 25 or 30!" Regardless of that, I was made to feel right at home. Remember, you all share a common bond, college!

I did find out that math was just as hard in college as in high school. I thought perhaps that maybe I just wasn't setting my mind to it before and this time I'd learn it and pass with flying colors. Nothing could be further from the truth. I later got tested and found out I have a learning disability. I couldn't believe it! It turns out that there's a math learning disability similar to dyslexia, which is called dyscalculia. I could do the math as long as someone was there with me but once I tried to do homework or tests, I'd draw a blank and fail every time. After I had my paperwork proving I had this disability, I was able to waive the math classes and take other classes in their stead. This was a relief but what hurt is that I could have done that from the beginning, saving money and time. Math is part of the reason I haven't graduated much sooner. Had I not spent time on those classes, 2 and 3 times, I could have finished my degree and moved on.

One thing that seems to help with being a little older is that you can relate to your teachers more. I'm actually friends with a few of my teachers and I can say, with the exception of a couple, they're very understanding and helpful.

My point to all of this? You're never too old to go back to school no matter what your age.