The Five Anxieties of Going Back to School

It’s been decided: you’re going back to school. Not just to prove something to yourself or to turn your life around, but to be the example you've always wanted to be. Way to go. But before your mind starts wandering through the natural anxieties of being an adult in college, take a deep breath and let us mend that worried mind one pestering anxiety at a time.

Anxiety #1: I’m not going to fit in.

The faces of students in higher education are changing rapidly. As shown in this recent study by the National Center for Education Statistics, there are higher numbers of women, ethnically diverse and non-traditional-aged students enrolling than ever before. So when you get there, look around. Chances are you’ll find people of all ages and walks of life working hard, just like you, to finish what they started.

Anxiety #2: I’m not going to know anyone.

You’re not in this alone. If your college offers it, enroll in a cohort program where you can make friends and work through a curriculum to complete your degree together. If not, consider enrolling in a Fast Track program where you can connect with like-minded students who are enrolled part-time and working at an accelerated pace to complete their degree alongside their busy schedules.

Anxiety #3: I’m not going to be a good student.

Would you look a loved one in the eye and tell them they’re not going to be a good student? It should be no different for yourself. Think about all of your positive traits as a non-student and consider how they can best be applied to your life as a student. And if you find yourself struggling at any given point, don’t be afraid to lean on your classmates, your professors and your college’s tutoring services to help get you through it.

Anxiety #4: It’s going to take too long to finish.

When looking ahead, four years can feel like a long time away. But think about how quickly the last four years have gone by. Before you know it, you’ll go from asking directions to your class, to taking your first set of final exams, to transferring to a four-year university, to, alas, ordering your cap and gown. And when you look back, it will be as if no time passed at all, yet the pride you carry forward will be with you for life.

Anxiety #5: I’m not going to be able to afford it.

We hear you. It’s a big investment but it can offer an even bigger value. Just remember that countless students in your same financial position have gone on to earn their degree against the odds of their income. If you want it, the support is there. With the help of your school’s financial aid and scholarship resources, there will always be a way.

Go forward.

You got this. Our dedicated team of professionals are here to support you every step of the way. Get help with financial aid, scholarships, academic advising, and much more.

Source: NCES Back To School Statistics

Originally Published Sep 16, 2019