Preparing to Go Back to College

Thinking about going back to college, pursuing professional certification, or advancing in your career? Congratulations! This is an important decision and you've made the first step by beginning to research your options.

Returning to college benefits

By participating in continuing education courses, you can increase your earning power, advance your career, or pursue a personal interest — but the best reason to return to go back to college is the one that resonates with you.

Your education is yours. This is one time when it's OK to be a little selfish!

Common fears for continuing education

Especially with the ever-increasing array of online learning options, there's more flexibility than ever before when it comes to higher education. Nevertheless, you may get cold feet. Don't let it stop you; it's completely normal.

Common misconceptions include the following:

• You have to be "young" to go to college
• You need a lot of free time to do well
• You've forgotten everything you learned

Going back to college: you're not alone

As the saying goes, returning to school is just like riding a bike. You'll be amazed at how quickly you adjust! You're also in good company. As of the 2003 Census, 37 percent of all college and graduate students were 25 or older. In addition, 60 percent of all students worked while attending school.