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returning to college after working, balancing school and work

Going Back to College After Time in the Workforce: A How-To Guide

After leaving high school, there are several paths one can choose to take. Some graduates will continue their education journey by going to college or trade school, some will join the military, and some will decide to enter the workforce immediately. Getting a job and entering the workforce when you’re young is full of challenges, and it is very common for people who started working right after high school to decide they want to change direction later in life. Here at Swedish Institute, for example, we have many students who come to us after years – even decades – outside of a school environment. 

Many individuals are returning to college after working to enhance their career prospects. Going back to school can be exciting, even if it seems a bit intimidating. If you’re unsure what it’s like to go from being a full-time employee to a full-time student, you’re not alone. We have a guide to help you prepare for this new part of your journey.  

Choose the Right Adult Education Program And Schedule for Your Career Goals

Whether you’re going back to college or enrolling for the first time, there’s a good chance that you’re looking for a change in career trajectory . At Swedish Institute, we offer adult education programs in several different health science-related courses, each allowing you to graduate and begin work in a new field. If you’re unsure of the program that’s right for you, don’t worry because you’re not alone. We can help you with that as well.  

Once you’ve found the program, ensure the schedule fits your needs. If you are still working, find a program that allows you to balance work and college. If you want to finish quickly, learn on an accelerated schedule and take more classes. There are plenty of solutions that fit your needs.  

Discover Your Learning and Studying Habits 

If it’s been years since you picked up a textbook, you might need to retrain your brain to learn in a school environment. With changes in technology (such as our iPad program, remote classes, etc.), the ways we teach have shifted. But if you’re concerned, ask questions! Your instructors will be ready to help you and can guide you through any challenges you have with new methods.  

Beyond how you learn, you should also find consistency in how you study—for example, setting aside a certain number of hours a week to dedicate to your books. Also, consider your learning habits. Do you learn best by listening or reading? Should you rewrite your notes, or should you use flashcards? Different people learn in different ways, and sometimes they learn best together. 

Make Friends 

Finding a community at your new school is crucial. For instance, in the Massage Therapy program here at Swedish, our students learn together and practice with one another. That takes trust but also involves finding your place in the community. Everyone is in a new environment, and most people start from square one, just like you. Take the time to talk to your new classmates and learn more about them. You might make friends for life.  

Beyond that, friends are a great resource. They can help you study, keep you accountable, fill in missed notes, and encourage you to succeed.  

“Discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most.” —Augusta F. Kantra  

Stay Positive and Focused 

We want to be real with you – starting college later in life not always easy. There can be a lot on your plate between school, family, finances and more, all while pursuing a college education. But most things in life worth doing require hard work and commitment. So don’t give up when you face obstacles. Learn from mistakes and you’ll succeed in the long run.  

You went back to school for a reason. When you start at school, set a goal for yourself. Remember why you’re doing this and who you’re doing it for. Keep them in mind throughout your journey. Eventually, you’ll get to the finish line and graduate with the ability to start a new career.  

Have Fun 

School is serious business, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun and rewarding. We want our students at Swedish Institute to enjoy their time here and look back fondly on their educational journey. At the end of the day, your education shouldn’t be a chore you struggle to get through. If you have passion and drive, the career will follow. So enjoy your time with new friends in a new environment, and prepare for the next steps after graduation. 

If you’re looking to get back to school, we want to help! Click here to learn about our programs, and to discover what a new career could mean for you.