8 useful Tips for Going Back to School

Are you going back to school after many years of working? If you have been laid off, returning to school can help to explain gaps in your employment history. It also shows that there is a genuine interest on your part to improve your knowledge base and become a better employee.

Continuing education doesn’t just mean earning an MBA. It can include:
* Bachelor’s or master’s programs
* Professional certification programs
* Personal development opportunities

If you have decided back to school, then these tips from Salary.com may help you:

1. What Should I Study?
No matter what degree you have, you will be most successful if you enjoy what you are doing. Every downturn is followed by an upturn. It makes sense to arm yourself with knowledge, but be wise and choose something that truly interests you.

2. Finding the Right School
Your goal should be to find a school that is affordable, has a good reputation, offers programs appropriate to your needs, and is conveniently located to minimize your commute time.

3. Evaluate Affordability
Be sure to research any and all financial aid available to help you finance your academic endeavors. Also consider what programs your employer has in place.

4. Understand Where You Are Coming From
Adult learning is truly "learning with a purpose". Returning to the classroom is a way to navigate the path to a desired end result. Adult learners also bring with them a wealth of "real world" experience that they should eagerly share in the classroom.

5. Sharpen Study Skills and Maintain Focus
You will need to manage your time efficiently and effectively especially if you will be working full or part-time and pursuing your studies simultaneously.

6. Don’t Over Extend
It is important to remember that your health needs to be your first priority.

7. Meet with an Academic Advisor
An academic advisor is specially trained to help you stay focused on your academic path.

8. Consider Volunteer Work
If after researching how to bankroll a return to school you determine that it just isn’t affordable right now, consider volunteering for community programs in your local area. You can offer to help out in areas of your current expertise and potentially learn new skills. This can also help you to expand your network, giving you increased professional exposure and potential leads for new career opportunities.


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