Should You Really Go Back to School?
- Vivian Chong
- Jun 20
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 16
So, you’ve figured out the next step in your career (kind of). Now what? Does it mean heading back to school? Getting another degree or diploma?
As someone who's going through it (and I mean going through it), let me tell you: returning to school as an adult is no easy feat. It's a huge commitment. I don’t think it’s ever too late. But before you start firing off applications and romanticizing college life again, take a moment to think about what’s realistic for you. Ask yourself:
Money Questions
How much can I afford? Yes, there’s tuition, but there's also textbooks, software, supplies, and possibly a reduced income if you’re stepping away from work.
Can I live with a temporarily tighter budget or reduced income?
Will I need to quit work completely?
Can you afford a master’s program (spoiler: they’re not cheap)?
Time Questions
How long can I commit to a program? Is full-time study for two years (or more) doable? Or is an accelerated one-year or part-time program more realistic?
How demanding is my current job? Will I need to pull back my hours or responsibilities? And will I have the time and energy to study after work and attend class?
What’s my ideal timeline to finish school or training?
Program Questions
Do I need a degree, diploma, certificate, or just a few courses?
How competitive is the program? (You might need a portfolio, letters of recommendation, or interviews.)
How often does the program accept new students — once a year or rolling?
Personal Questions (the existential ones)
Why am I going back? (Be honest.)
Do I want to study again, or do I just feel like I should?
Will this program or training actually help me pivot to where I want to work?
Not every career shift requires school. But if you’re pivoting into a new field with gaps in your experience, chances are you’ll need to gain skills or credentials somehow. Whether it's full-time or part-time studies you're looking at, school is a serious commitment. But the more you can narrow and clarify your career goals going in, the easier it’ll be to stay focused and motivated when things get hard.
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