by Gail Marsh

Created on: March 11, 2010

The decision to attend college for the first time or return to college from my experience of working with professional adults usually begins with the need to fill a gap, whether that gap is created through job loss, job dissatisfaction, or have always wanted to get a degree. As a life long learner I understand the difficulties in remaining in college during challenging times including deciding to have more children, seeking a career, and other life demands. I have been a full time college student almost fourteen years. I currently have a 3.9 GPA and am a doctorate learner. 

The choice to attend college is individualistic, not a cookie cutter answer and in determining whether or not higher education is right for you has very little to do with talent. Talent is only one factor of many that an individual can look inward when choosing to continue their endeavors. There are many questions one might ask when determining if they would like to attend college. Keep a journal of the pros and cons, decide what type of schedule is realistic for you, and know that college is something you have chose to pursue. 

A few questions you might consider answering during your journey are: What kind of schedule can I realistically fit into my current life? Are there any ways I can reorganize my current schedule to fit in academic demands?  Why do I want to pursue higher education? Is it monetary gain or personal enrichment, maybe a little of both? If this pursuit is monetary gain, what are the trends of the industry that I am seeking to participate? Is there a demand for what I want to do? What is my back-up plan for unexpected events, such as child care when your child's school is cancelled for the day and you must press forward? How committed can I honestly be for the next four years? Are there any additional requirements such as travel or team meetings that I may be required to participate with that may cut into your personal time? Have you left time for yourself, family, or children? Do you have the support to pursue the degree? Understand the required homework hours involved and workload outside of the college or online setting. Colleges have a tendency to not share the class requirements which can leave students frustrated and shocked with the additional requirements once attending. 

If I were to start the journey of college all over again and know what I know now, I might consider a couple of factors that never dawned on me at the time. First,

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