Melissa writes:
I am 27 years old and looking to go back to school full-time. I went to college briefly after high school as a business major but didn’t stay and am now regretting it… BIG TIME. I want to advance myself and my career but sometimes feel I am too old competing against all these younger people that just graduated college. How can i over come the feeling of inadequacy and what are some suggestions for a college major that is goal oriented but will help me out in the real world?
The Career Doctor responds:
I think you know what I am going to say… just do it! Heck, one of my favorite students is a 50-something woman, so being 27 is nothing. If you can find a way to do it financially, I really encourage you to go back to college full-time. So what if you’re 30 by the time you finish? Going back to college will be an investment of your time and money, but it’s an investment that will continue to pay you back for a lifetime.
Study after study shows that college graduates make more money and live a more comfortable lifestyle. The lifetime income of families headed by individuals with a bachelor’s degree will be about $1.6 million more than the incomes of families headed by those with a high-school diploma.
And it’s not just all about money. Folks with a college degree also have better job opportunities, and develop skills and knowledge that will serve many purposes, and live healthier and happier lives.
But as you are contemplating this leap back to college, you also need to take time for some self-assessment and career exploration. You need to discover your passions in life - and how you can apply those to one or more careers.
And if I may make one plug for a business education, let me reiterate my view that I think every college student should at least minor in business (if not major in it). How many college grads are not going to work for a business in their lives? Having at least a minor gives you important insights and skills needed in the business environment.
And remember - no regrets. Some folks are just not ready to tackle college at 18… needing time to gain the maturity and appreciation necessary to succeed.
Read more in this article published on Quintessential Careers: What Good is a College Education Anyway? The Value of a College Education.
