To go back to school?

Question

I always dreamed of getting a PhD, but marriage, moving, life - as it often does - intervened. Now I'm starting to think about it again. Did you go back to school mid-career? Did you get to pursue your first choice program? How did you manage the finances and logistics of work and school?

Jennifer A · Answer

I went back to school in my 40's to get my Masters in Information Systems.  I did it for two reasons - first, because I had been tossing the idea around for years and I just 'wanted a Masters'.  Second because I had a business degree, had just been laid off, and had worked in IT my entire career but wasn't getting any traction on jobs because of 'requirements' for an IT type degree.

For me, I choose an online program (University of Phoenix UOPX) as it was one class at a time on an accelerated scheduled.  Personally it's easier to address one subject at a time instead of trying to juggle 2-3 classes as each class gets my complete focus.  From a time factor, I could take temporary jobs and/or get a full time job and still be able to handle the work load.  As far as money, I chose to take out student loans as I didn't have the cash to spare for tuition and books.  Last, I made a commitment to myself that I would pay them off in 5 years.  It took every ounce of spare money but I am proud to say that I did it.   I worked temp jobs for almost 14 months during my 18 month program and landed a new full time job just two weeks before graduation.

It wasn't easy and it took commitment from not just me but also from my family.  They had to step up and because they were teens, I didn't feel bad about this.  They needed to start to learn to step up I didn't see a problem with teaching them that it's never too late to continue your education and/or you should always be learning!

My one piece of advice, make sure you understand that you are committing to at least 20+ hours a week if you go this route.   With my program, that meant answering study questions in the car while driving to a camping trip, getting up early on Saturday & Sunday to finish assignments prior to driving the kids to their events and quite a few late nights.  It meant prioritizing school and keeping my eye on the ball.  I won't lie, it was tough.  In the end I really hadn't realized how important it was to me and I am so glad I did it.

Rose Holland · Answer

I went back to school for my masters when I was in my 30s. I hope to be going for my PhD this coming summer (and am in my 50s). My masters was paid for through a scholarship as will my PhD so I'm lucky there. If you can be a TA for the university, you might be able to get your PhD paid for. Look into scholarships for your profession too.

As to time management, When I earned my masters I had 3 kids at home. There were LOTS of nights that we all did homework together. It was a great example. My son was in competitive gymnastics so I would drop him off at the gym and go around the corner to study for those two to three hours every day as well.

StellaK · Answer

Try asking yourself: Would you regret it if you didn't go back to school? Leaning towards yes or no might help you make the decision and best of luck!

To go back to school?

You're invited.

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