Should I return to School?

The story plays out again and again.  In this economy, job security is nonexistent.   You lose your job unexpectedly and don't know what to do.  You tell yourself you are too old to return to school, but is that really true?   The answer is a resounding "No!"  It is never too late to return to school -- especially if you are the family breadwinner or plan to continue working for several years.  Rather than allowing yourself to become consumed with depression, think about turning back the clock.  This can be a great opportunity to start over and do that thing you've always wanted to do.  Here are a few interesting ideas for meaningful careers:

Nursing -- take it at a community college to save $$

Surgical Technician -- offers all the excitement of the operating room -- offered at many community colleges and you can work anywhere in the United States.

EMT -- offered at colleges and community colleges

Physician's Assistant -- a wonderful career with a fair amount of autonomy - think university

Professional Chef --  cooking schools are easy to find throughout the country

Radiation Therapist -- accredited programs are offered at many colleges

Teacher -- great programs at state schools and private colleges/universities

The next installment will discuss degree options in business.

Which College Should I Attend?

Making the Final Choice

Congratulations!  If you are reading this blog it probably means you have been accepted to more than one college or university.  Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make.  Attending the wrong school can make you miserable, while the right college can set you on a path for success for the rest of your life.  So how do you decide when both schools are attractive choices?

Here's two sound pieces of advice:   

1.  Look at the Freshman Retention and Graduation rates in US NEWS & WORLD AMERICA'S BEST COLLEGES.  These rates are true indicators of how students judge their schools.  The higher the rate for graduation and freshman retention, the better the school is doing at providing a strong learning environment and welcoming culture.   

2.  If two schools are evenly matched in your mind, then contact the Admissions Department and tell them you wish to sit in on classes for an afternoon.  This must be cleared with the instructor in advance, but it will give you a great opportunity to see the culture in action -- and not through the artificial lens of a student visitation day or weekend.   You'll either click with the faculty, students, and classroom environment, OR you will know quickly that despite the great campus, financial aid package, etc., it is really not a good match.