Did you know 38% of undergraduates are adult learners? Returning to school as an adult may seem out of the ordinary in your eyes. However, universities all over the United States are continuing to welcome more and more adult learners every year. As a single parent, we know you work hard to provide for your children and support them as they grow. One way many single parents support their children is by returning to school and finding the right career path.
5 Reasons You Should Consider Going Back to School
There are a multitude of reasons why you may be considering returning to school. Whether you are looking to finish a degree you started years ago or are just wanting to earn a special certification, there are many ways to accomplish your goals. If you are a single parent who has thought about returning to school, here are a few valuable reasons why you should:
1. Earning a Degree
Life takes everyone on a unique path, and earning a degree right out of high school isn’t always an option for everyone. Whether you are looking to finish your degree or are looking to attend college for the first time, college degrees are one of the biggest accomplishments of your life. Earning a degree will help you learn new skills, network with others, set an example for your children and more.
2. Updating Your Skill Set
Oftentimes, new technology and innovations sneak their way into our careers and require us to adapt quickly. One reason to return to school is to update your skill set in order to learn more about the latest technology and advancements in your field of work. You may also update your skill set by obtaining a variety of certifications through different college courses.
3. Advancing Your Career
If you’re looking to get a leg up in your career, returning to school could be the answer. In most industries, individuals with college degrees make more money than those who do not. College is an investment that keeps on giving. With a college degree, you have more opportunities to grow professionally, move up in your business, and increase your salary.
4. Setting an Example
As a single parent, you want to set a good example for your children. Don’t let the stereotypes and expectations of those around make decisions for you. By returning to school, you will be setting a great example for your children by providing for them while continuing to grow professionally.
5. Feeling Accomplished
Oftentimes, we all just need to feel a sense of accomplishment. There is no better feeling than to hear someone say “you did it!” By returning to school as a single parent and earning a degree, you will be able to say you’ve done something not everyone else has. Congratulations!
Tips for Choosing a Career Path
If you are returning to school but don’t know how to choose the right career path, you’re not alone. With so many degrees and minors to choose from, it can be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to get started:
Take Career Assessment Tests
One way to see where your skills and interests may take you in the professional world is to take a career assessment test. There are a variety of online tests that can help give you guidance and direction when finding a career path to meet your needs. These tests are not intended to tell you exactly what to do in your future career. However, they can help you kickstart your search in the right direction.
Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses
When choosing a career path, it’s important to consider your own strengths and weaknesses. Oftentimes, this is a question you may be asked in a job interview. You can simply take a few minutes to write down your top strengths and weaknesses. From there, you will be able to make a more informed decision about the career path you will take when returning to school.
READ MORE: Writing an Attention-Grabbing Resume
Shadow a Professional on the Job
If you have a career path in mind, consider shadowing a professional on the job. There is a huge difference between taking college courses for a career and having hands on experience in the field. Many companies are happy to accommodate their schedule for those interested in their industry.
Attend Networking Events
We know you’ve heard the quote “it’s not always what you know, but it’s who you know.” Oftentimes, this quote is very true when it comes to finding a career. Luckily, most universities offer a variety of networking opportunities every year for students who are looking to meet others in their industry. At these events, you will have the opportunity to meet business professionals, potential employers and individuals who have insight into the career path you have chosen.
Pursue Things You Love
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a career path is to pursue the things you love. If you enjoy taking care of others, you may pursue a career in the medical field. If you love helping others learn new things, you may be interested in teaching. You don’t have to sacrifice the things you love when looking for a career path.
Resources at Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund
If you are returning to school as a single parent, we want to help you find the right career path. Our team at Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund has a variety of resources and scholarships to help serve you as you work to improve the future for your family.
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