AboutCynthia Wolfe Expertise Let me help you with questions about adult education and continuing education programs. If you are looking for a program or have questions about adult education in general, I can guide you. If you are a teacher looking for new ideas or methods, I can help. I have resources and ideas to share. I am a member of the National Business Education Association (NBEA), a professional organization devoted to the recognition that business education competencies are essential for all individuals in today's fast-changing society.
Experience I am an instructor at the University of Phoenix, working in online and classroom modalities. I am also a student at Northcentral University, where I am working on a PhD in Business Administration, with a specialty in Management. My MBA is from Troy University, 2001, and I have a BS, Environmental Science, from Troy University, 1980. Read about my experiences as an online student at my blog thinkPhD.
Question Hello. This might be too general of a question, but what can you recommend for a 34 year old male looking to go back to school. I've been in the printing industry for 14 years, which with todays technology isn't going to last me till retirement. I've thought about continuing my education for several years, but due to my fiance's health problems, never had the time. I'm currently working a full time job and 2 part time jobs (which is getting old) and I know that time is running out for me to go back. I have checked into University of Phoenix, but it is very expensive, and I don't know if I want such a huge loan to have to pay back after I graduate (at 37 or 38). Not to mention I'm being called by them all the time. Sounds more like a sales pitch than helping to point me in the right direction. I'm sure theres plenty of people in my shoes. I'm just looking for some direction to take as far as how to check what's available in my area and financial aid possibilities. Thanks for any help you can give
Answer Hello Brad,
Thank you for asking a question. Yes, there are many people in similar circumstances, having to make difficult decisions about balancing career, family needs, and education. Based on the information you are presenting to me, it sounds as though you have weighed your options and do not like the result. Let's work through what you tell me.
No career lasts forever without change. The printing industry will always be around, but maybe not in the way that it is now. It will(like many industries) will become more technology-based rather than worker-based. You have three jobs (wow) and I hear burn-out in your words. You are eager to go and do something else (go to school) because of burn-out with your current circumstances...not that you have a burning desire for college. This is not a good enough reason to get a degree. Going back to school will likely make all of your circumstances more difficult because it will take a lot of time and money! Before you choose a college, you must reconfigure your lifestyle so that you can devote time to studying and writing papers. You will need to drop some extra jobs and modify your lifestyle. Initially, the classes will not be time consuming but before you graduate you will spend many hours each week on your coursework.
As to the University of Phoenix calling so frequently, ask them politely not to call. If they call a second time after that, ask to speak to the manager. You must be firm and courteous because they are eager to get you into their program. Do not fall into any sales pitch from any school...and if you express interest in other schools they may also call or email you as well. You are not buying a cary, you are making a life-changing commitment and should not be swayed by a sales pitch. This strategy is not unique to the University of Phoenix, they are simply mobilized and structured to make these calls.
College is not a good option when you are swamped with multiple jobs, have a consuming family life or short finances. Preparing for college does not mean filling out paperwork - you must choose college over other things. You do not want to start and then stop - and have a huge financial burden of loans over your head and no degree to show for it. Only start...when you are 100% sure you can finish. I know you are thinking that I would give you the names of a few schools to contact, but I have chosen not to do this because I do not believe that you are ready to return to college at this time. However, I do recommend that you sharpen your job skill set by attending any courses relevant to your job, or any management training opportunities offered by your employer. These would be one day, two days, or week-long and not require the type of commitment a unversity degree requires.
I hope you take this message in the spirit in which it is intended: I believe you have the heart for learning, but your life's current configuration prevents you from doing your absolute best in school. You expect a lot out of yourself (three jobs, family support, desire to improve) and you have much to give. Unfortunately there are only 24 hours in a day and you are all booked up right now!
