Revisiting School: Motivations, Challenges, and Alternatives

Whether you're a college graduate looking to further your education or an adult who has tried and failed to return to the classroom, there are various motivations and challenges to consider when it comes to revisiting school.

Why Some Return to School

For many, the idea of returning to school after years away may be enticing, especially for practical reasons. My own experience in 1974, when I graduated college and then pursued a series of graduate courses without a degree, is one such case. In 1995, a series of events led me to pursue an MBA in 1997 and a PhD in 2001. Eventually, I retired in 2020 but found a new opportunity to audit courses for free in the U.S. at the University of Minnesota. However, the experience was not always positive.

Challenges in Returning to School

Others, like myself, have repeatedly tried to go back to college but found it challenging and sometimes even wasteful. In my case, I've attempted to return to school approximately five times, but each time, it felt like wasted money. Subjects like Graphic Design, Medical Billing and Coding, Mortuary Science, and even Nursing Practitioner were not of significant interest to me. The business aspect of Graphic Design, for instance, left me stumped, and many other programs either failed to align with my goals or were uninteresting.

Learning on One's Own: A Viable Option

Instead of formal education, many find that learning on their own is a preferable and more effective method. For me, continuous study of languages, writing, and history has been a rewarding experience. Learning at my own leisure seems to be more conducive to retention and personal satisfaction. Even when I was a good student, I often found it harder to learn when it was compulsory compared to when it was a leisure activity.

Lessons from Personal Experience

A prime example is a certificate program I enrolled in. The introductory class was a complete waste of time, with months of learning nothing significant or related to the skill I wanted to master. Eventually, I became so frustrated that I turned to the internet to learn the basics of the skills I needed, planning to drop the program soon. Although I could have done this from the beginning, I still had the mindset that I 'must go to school.'

Resistance to Higher Education

Due to financial and personal reasons, the thought of pursuing a higher degree can be daunting. Grad school may seem like the logical next step for some, but there are concerns about the investment of time and resources in a Liberal Arts degree, especially when one's brain may not be suited for it. This was the case with my mother's encouragement to pursue a master's degree. I often find it best not to heed her advice on these matters.

For those considering whether to return to school or seek alternative learning methods, it's essential to evaluate your specific needs and goals. Whether you're passionate about a specific field or looking to brush up on general knowledge, there are many more options available today than ever before.

What are your experiences with returning to school? Share your stories in the comments below.