By now, everyone knows that I have been on the journey of going back to school to refocus and advance my career for my 40s, while at the same time preparing myself to teach at the University level in my 50s.
Being that my education was non traditional -meaning, I didn't attend or graduate from a State School- or attained traditional degree, things weren't that easy this time around.
Who knew that a 15 year break would be amazing for my career, but not so much for my academics?
Wrongly assuming that my new path would be easy to navigate because of my career experience and previous school grades, I wasn't prepared for all the red tape involved in returning to school.
Let me get this out of the way: If I didn't like school or hadn't done well this past semester, I would have already given up.
Thing is, I love school, I love learning, I love being in an environment where debating and discussing varying opinions is celebrated. I love implementing what I learn in my career and personal life. I love knowing that I am one step ahead of the crowd...and that I am only ten years from teaching at the university level (my ultimate goal, and ideal the last job I will have before I retire).
Unfortunately, things are not that easy.
Not only that, but academic processes have changed considerably in the 15 years since I have been out of school. Heck, from what I have heard from other adult students, things have changed considerable in the last five years.
But, there is a silver lining in all this: My story has inspired many women to go back to school. Many.
The hick-ups of this summer, from my transcripts getting lost by the school I am ultimately transferring to; to my application having the wrong educational focus, I have lived through all of it. Through. It. All.
Yes, I have had headaches, sleepless nights, rants of frustration on Facebook, and even shed a few tears...but it's all worth it...
I have found a tribe that supports me and holds my hand as I navigate this new world. That, in itself, being another benefit of returning to school.