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Post by luvmygirls on Mar 2, 2017 17:36:24 GMT
So has anyone went back to school in their late 40s? I've been fortunate to have good jobs after high school, so there has been no need for college and no motivation. Therefore I have no college credits at all. My current boss has challenged me to look at different colleges and see what they have in the field I'm working in. I've looked at Universities and Community Colleges. I am now motivated, but don't know if I have the time. It will take me 4 years to get an Associates and 8 or more for a Bachelors. I'm planning to retire in the next 10-12 years. Would it benefit me to have a degree this late in life?
P.S. Money is no problem because my employer has a wonderful reimburse program.
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Post by CarefreeSadie on Mar 2, 2017 17:43:33 GMT
Sure did. I went back when I was 52 and got a double BA. Business Administration and Psychology. I am so glad I did it. I always wanted to so I figured in 4 years I would be 56 whether I went back to school or not. I went to a college satellite place and took night and online courses. I went to the local community college for the AA part which took 1 1/2 years and then transferred to the other college. Fun fact, the high school I graduated from had the beaver as it's mascot and so did the college I got my BAs from.......I am a double beaverette.
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Post by monicad on Mar 2, 2017 18:04:59 GMT
I'm trying to finish up my paralegal degree, and I'm almost 42. It's been very slow going, but there have been times I've had to take breaks because of family obligations. People are living/working longer now, so I figured that I could potentially still have a 20 year career. Plus my dh can retire fairly young, and I don't want to be with him 24/7. LOL
If you're planning on retiring in 10-12 years and the degree will take a minimum of 4, that's something to think about. Personally, I love school and would say if your employer is paying for it, go for it. Even if you don't use the degree, you will take classes that you never thought you would and will learn so much. It's not easy to sit in a classroom with a bunch of kids fresh out of high school, but I've come away from this with a much broader view of people and experiences.
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Post by crazy4scraps on Mar 2, 2017 20:35:55 GMT
When I went back at 25 there were quite a few other people starting who were even older than I was in with the mix of typical 18-19 year olds. Why are you thinking it will take so long? Even if you don't have any college credits going in, don't automatically assume that your life and job experience won't count for something because it very well might. There could be a number of classes that you can effectively test out of where you basically take the test to prove what you already know and pay for the class credit so it counts without spending the time taking the class. There are also many accredited online classes available now that would allow you to do the work at times when it's convenient for you which could speed up the process as well.
I think if you are feeling motivated to go you should go. You'll never know what doors could open for you if you never try.
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Deleted
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Sept 21, 2024 0:48:24 GMT
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Post by Deleted on Mar 2, 2017 21:07:09 GMT
I started in my later 40s (48 I think) I finished 2 years ago this past December.. took me 6 years. I am thrilled I have done it. I completely enjoyed my classes.
Once you start you may find you can handle more than just one or two classes. I could take 3 each semester by staggering our block class system and mixing online with traditional courses. You may also be able to clep out some courses. For me it will mean 8 years of a higher paying job.
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Post by Zee on Mar 2, 2017 21:17:19 GMT
I am right now! I started last fall at age 44 finally doing my RN to BSN program. It was hard choosing a program, but I found one I love. It's online and designed only for those who are already RNs but don't have the bachelor's degree. I've been an RN since 1998 and I think out of all my classmates I've probably been out of school the longest, but we have good exchanges of ideas on the discussion boards. I have a lot of practical experience and they have some newer things to share. I am so happy I made this decision, only wish I would have done it years ago. My mind feels so much more engaged and I feel a lot happier with life, having this goal to focus on. I take two classes at a time in general (one gen ed, one nursing class). It's an accelerated program so the classes are very intensive and I spend a lot of time writing and researching, but it's great. I probably won't be done for about a year and a half, maybe two years. I'm not in a huge hurry. Even the gen-ed classes I didn't want to take, I've enjoyed despite myself. And boy is scholarly research so much easier now than back when I had to go to a library and request the journals and make photocopies. I can access everything online from my school's library system. You have to be very organized and self-motivated to make online learning work, I think, but I love getting up and going to class in a robe and slippers or sitting down at 8PM instead of 8AM.
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Post by cindytred on Mar 3, 2017 1:57:51 GMT
I went back to college at 48 and graduated with Bachelors in Elementary Education 4 years later at 52. I amazed myself at how great of a student I was! I am so proud of myself for getting my degree! You should do it!
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Post by redhead32 on Mar 3, 2017 2:22:34 GMT
I am in school right now - early 40s. I have a couple of degrees already but I finally figured out what I REALLY want to do with my life. :-) I work full time, have a family, am active in my church, and I find it manageable to do 3-4 online classes at a time. I actually took 6 classes last term, with 5 online and 1 meeting in person at night.
Here's my practical tip. Buy a good computer, because you can rent digital textbooks for a LOT less money. Many of my classes allow open notes/books for test, and a digi textbook makes test taking *almost* pleasant. Almost.
My goal is to have my new job by the time I'm 45, which gives me at least 20 years of working.
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Post by stampinbetsy on Mar 3, 2017 2:43:10 GMT
I'm 45, and I'm working on a paralegal certificate. This is the 4th time I've been in school. It is taking me 4 long semesters and a summer to get it done.
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leeny
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Post by leeny on Mar 3, 2017 3:32:16 GMT
I did. I had been taking a class here and there from my 20's into my early 40's at our local community college when I visited a reentry counselor (specializes in adults going back to college). She told me I was very close to an Associates, so I started taking 2 classes a semester, one in person and one online. Finished that and transferred to a private University (pricey) who had an accelerated Bachelor's Program. Graduated just after my 46th birthday. I had kids very young and though I was able to work my way up in my career without the degrees, the higher I went the more competition. So very glad I did. Good luck!
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Post by Eddie-n-Harley on Mar 3, 2017 3:54:36 GMT
Are you in the US? I think it will still benefit you-- I believe social security retirement payments (assuming the system is still viable when you retire) are based on your 10 highest years of earning over your lifetime. Sometimes merely having that degree will entitle you to higher pay. Even if you only have, say, four years left in your working life when you get the degree, if you are able to draw a higher salary, your retirement benefit will be higher as well.
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Post by Hayjaker on Mar 3, 2017 4:19:06 GMT
I'm 46 and a year away from my bachelors degree. My classes are all online and I'm a full time student, work full time and am the best Mom I can be. I don't have time or ENERGY for much more than that!
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scorpeao
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Post by scorpeao on Mar 3, 2017 4:25:24 GMT
Sure, why not?
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Post by Basket1lady on Mar 3, 2017 4:31:07 GMT
Do you WANT to go back to school? Did you enjoy school the first time around? Do you enjoy learning? Do you have a supportive DH or family that will help you with any commitments with your family? If any of those answers are yes, it's worth considering. Even if you don't end up with a degree, you will gain knowledge that may help you in your job.
I'm assuming you have kids based on your Pea Name. How old are they? Don't automatically assume that teens don't need you around. There is all the chauffeuring duties that come with teens, but I also found that my kids never talk if I seek them out. They need to find me at a time when they don't think they are bugging me. I'm 49. Right now, I can see a class fitting in easily, but I'm not sure about more than that. I was a big student and really wanted those As! And I'm not working--I see working and going to school as a much harder task.
In the end, it comes down to what you want to do. If you want to do it, you will find a way to make it work. If you only go into it because you think you should do it, I think I would resent the time away from my family and the tasks related to my schooling.
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Post by shamrockpea on Mar 3, 2017 4:44:32 GMT
I went back when I was 49 for 2 years to become a math teacher. It was a one year program to be a teacher and the extra year to get a masters. I am 59 now and just enrolled to go back to get principal/admin certification which will take me all next school year.
Go for it!!!!
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Post by mikklynn on Mar 3, 2017 12:36:10 GMT
If it's something you want, then go for it! I went back in my late 30's. There were several people in my engineering cohort that were 50.
It's scary to go into that first class, but after that I think you'll enjoy it.
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Post by JoP on Mar 3, 2017 13:12:19 GMT
If it's something you want, then go for it! I went back in my late 30's. There were several people in my engineering cohort that were 50. It's scary to go into that first class, but after that I think you'll enjoy it. I did exactly the same as mikklynn
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Post by Fidget on Mar 3, 2017 13:48:15 GMT
I didn't but my brother did! He went back and completed his bachelors degree at age 50, he then went to law school full time while working full time. He finished and passed the bar exam at age 55. He want's to work as an attorney when he retires from his military job.
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Post by librarylady on Mar 3, 2017 14:43:32 GMT
I went back at 49 to get my MLS. I was shaking the first morning as I drove to the university. However, to my surprise, the class was filled with other older folks who were working on a new degree.
I say, DO IT!
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twinsmomfla99
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Post by twinsmomfla99 on Mar 3, 2017 15:55:12 GMT
Even if you plan to retire in 10-12 years, going back to school can be worth it.
1. We always hear how hard it is to get a job las an older applicant if something happens to your current position. That isn't so much because of age as it is the perception that an older applicant has not kept current in the field and would not have the same skills as a recent grad. However, with a new degree, you now enter the market as someone with a wealth of experience AND current educational credentials. That can't hurt.😀
2. A degree can lead to an increased salary. Tacking several years of higher salary onto your social security earnings could have a nice effect on your SS benefits when you retire. If your employer is paying your tuition, all this costs you is your time. And if you enjoy it, the time won't seem to matter anyway.
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Post by Fairlyoddparent on Mar 3, 2017 16:57:08 GMT
I finished my bachelor's degree the same month that I turned 50. I'm now working on my Master's degree and will finish it when I'm 53. I worked full time and took a full class load all the way through. My classes are all online. Some days are hard and it can be difficult to juggle it all but I am so grateful that I've been able to do it.
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Post by Restless Spirit on Mar 3, 2017 17:05:57 GMT
I went back in my late 30's. There was no such thing as online classes then, so I went to school, worked full time and was a wife and mother.
I graduated with a BSBA, Summa Cum Laude. It was a combination of hard, scary and fun. And one of the best things I ever did in my life.
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nyandnc
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Post by nyandnc on Mar 3, 2017 17:15:17 GMT
He suggested looking for courses that pertain to what you are doing in your work life. I wouldn't think of this as a years long process. Take courses that will help you in your job and don't worry about getting a degree. I don't know what field you are working in but it sounds as if your boss is encouraging you to obtain more skills or understanding of your field. That is what I would concentrate on doing. You might find helpful courses online or in several different colleges... Would not lead to a degree but would give you more skills and knowledge.
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Post by jeremysgirl on Mar 3, 2017 17:57:32 GMT
I graduated with a masters at 41. I recently got hired in a new job. My boss had a discussion with me the other day on why he hired me. One of the things he said was that he appreciated my dedication to getting a new degree later in life and wanting to take my career in a new direction. He also appreciated my various work experiences and he felt I brought a lot to the table. He does like new grads because he likes to train them fresh.
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mallie
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Post by mallie on Mar 3, 2017 18:39:58 GMT
If your employer will pay for it and you would enjoy it, then go for it.
Otherwise, I would say not to do it at your age and plans for retirement. I honestly do not know one person over the age of 40 who went back to school and got a new or better job or a promotion as a result of more education. Too much age discrimination. I mean, I know it can happen. It's not like spotting a unicorn. But IME, it's close.
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Post by ashleysummer on Mar 31, 2017 12:28:21 GMT
Here's my practical tip. Buy a good computer, because you can rent digital textbooks for a LOT less money. Many of my classes allow open notes/books for test, and a digi textbook makes test taking *almost* pleasant. Almost. I'm also a true devotee of rented textbooks. I tend to rent digital texbooks or buy used ones through booksrun.com/ . It's a reliable service. If you buy online from unknown resource, then you should check out the used textbooks for ripped pages and ink blots. Good luck with your school!
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pridemom
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Post by pridemom on Mar 31, 2017 12:39:34 GMT
I was in my late 30's when I went back. You may be able to find some programs geared for working adults that meet like the program I did. Many colleges have adult programs for people who want to complete a BS after they finish an AA. One night a week for four hours, one class for five weeks each, and completing the final BS 48 credits in two years.
Good luck.
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hannahruth
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Post by hannahruth on Mar 31, 2017 15:37:58 GMT
I agree with the other posts - if your employer is happy to fund it, you are willing to study then why not?
Even though you may enjoy where you are working now in 5-6 years things may change and you are not so happy. Any current study has to be of benefit when applying for a new job. Even studying give you new skills as in time management, setting priorities, project work, commitment to time frames - the list goes on. while you probably have these skills so have them acknowledged educationally is of huge benefit.
Good luck in your endeavour.
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Post by stampinbetsy on Mar 31, 2017 15:55:46 GMT
I am 45, and started a paralegal certificate last fall. I will have another year after this semester. There are some younger people in my classes, but a lot of us in the program are older.
I love school, so for me, age isn't a factor at all.
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Anita
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Post by Anita on Mar 31, 2017 16:08:31 GMT
If your employer will pay for it and you would enjoy it, then go for it. Otherwise, I would say not to do it at your age and plans for retirement. I honestly do not know one person over the age of 40 who went back to school and got a new or better job or a promotion as a result of more education. Too much age discrimination. I mean, I know it can happen. It's not like spotting a unicorn. But IME, it's close. It happened for me. I finished my master's in my early 40s and landed a good job in my field right away. A mere 3.5 years later and I just switched jobs. I am now making 50% more than I did when I first graduated, and 3x my salary before I went back to school. So it can happen, I promise. I may be a unicorn, though.
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