DegreeGo Blog

2010 is a big year for adults that plan on going back to school; in fact, the government reports “get a better education” as the second highest 2010 New Years resolution under “drinking less alcohol.” Going back to school is a complicated process that requires research and decision-making though, and adult learners and recent graduates alike are encouraged to take the process step-by-step to avoid getting overwhelmed with the New Years resolution they’ve made; kind of like how losing weight is done in small stages in a log!

The following are eight steps to help you fulfill your educational goals in 2010:

1. Ask yourself the question, “What do I want to get out of going back to school?” Another way to word this is, “What major and type of degree am I interested in?” Are you looking to qualify for a specific job? If so, a vocational training program or a 2-year college degree may be just the thing for you. Are you trying to get a promotion? Consider pursuing an MBA. Are you going back to school to take a fun elective or learn about an interesting topic? Anything from a community college to a full-scale university could meet your needs.
2. Next, ask yourself, “How do I intend to incorporate school into my daily life?” Another way to word this is, “Do I want to attend classes at a campus or online?” If you want to go back to school while maintaining your current job, your most likely chosen candidates are distance education or evening classes. If you are quitting your day job or otherwise have time to attend a traditional campus university, you will probably gravitate towards that method of learning.
3. Now ask yourself, “Which schools best meet the two criteria I’ve just chosen?” Another way to word this is, “What colleges or universities am I interested in enrolling at?” This is the question that will require the most research. Take some time looking at different colleges at a school directory resource like DegreeGo and request information for the schools that are the most interest to you. If you are interested in a campus-based program, try scheduling a time to visit the campuses on your list.
4. You’ve chosen what degree you want, how you want to earn it, and where you want to go. How are you going to pay for it? You may have already started applying for scholarships. If you haven’t, do so now; scholarships are free money and are available for all ages, ethnicities, and interests. Consult the financial aid department of the school you plan on attending for any scholarships specific to the school, as well as grants and student loans. Do your best to avoid private student loans. In the event you must pull out a private student loan, do extensive research on the loan provider to make sure you will not get scammed.
5. Where will you live? Are you going to a local school? You won’t have many changes in this case. Will you be staying at a dorm at your college? Will you rent an apartment close to campus? The location of your school will determine the cost of living. Are you attending school online? If so, your location is flexible.
6. What will you do after you graduate? This is something that you need to consider before jumping into your degree, and here’s why: some schools have job placement programs with certain companies of interest to you; and some schools may have a reputation, participation in honor societies, or clubs that will benefit your future goal.
7. What extra-curricular activities do you plan on participating in to accentuate your degree? Speaking of honor societies, think about what else you intend to do to accentuate your degree while going back to school. Does your school support community service, clubs, studying abroad, or any other activities that further boost the academics section of your resume?
8. Are you a military family or service member? If you are, this will also affect the college that you attend. Check out the Veterans Benefits GI Bill blog for more on military-friendly colleges and universities.

Good luck on fulfilling your New Years resolution for a better education in 2010!