Deciding to go back to school as an adult can be an exciting, yet overwhelming, journey. Whether you’re juggling work, family, and life responsibilities, or you’re simply unsure where to begin, it’s easy to feel stuck. The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out at once. By breaking down the process into manageable steps, you’ll gain clarity and confidence as you move forward.
1. Define Your “Why”
The first step is to ask yourself: Why am I going back to school?
This is the most important question to answer before anything else. Are you looking for career advancement, a new skillset, personal growth, or the chance to finish something you started? Understanding your motivation gives you a sense of purpose and helps you stay focused and confident when things get tough. It also helps you prioritize your options based on what matters most to you.
- Write down your goals for returning to school. Be specific. For example:
- “I want to switch careers and need a degree in technology.”
- “I want to complete my bachelor’s degree to set an example for my kids.”
- “I need to earn a certification to qualify for a promotion.”
Knowing your “why” will help narrow your focus and guide your decisions.
2. Explore Your Options, But Start Broad
The variety of programs, schools, and learning formats can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to make a final decision right away. Start by identifying what fits your lifestyle and goals.
Ask yourself:
- Do I need a fully online program, or can I attend in-person classes?
- Am I looking for an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, a certification, or specific skills?
- How much time can I realistically dedicate each week?
Once you’ve answered these questions, start researching programs that align with your criteria. Focus on trusted institutions and prioritize flexibility if you’re balancing other commitments.
Action Step:
- Use this simple spreadsheet to compare programs, including factors like:
- Tuition costs
- Format (online, hybrid, in-person)
- Program length
- Accreditation
This will help you narrow down your options without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Break It Into Small, Manageable Steps
When you’re staring at a long to-do list—researching schools, applying for financial aid, submitting applications—it’s easy to feel stuck. Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, break the process into smaller, achievable tasks. Each step, no matter how small, moves you closer toward your goal!
For example:
- Research programs and create a shortlist.
- Reach out to admissions counselors or attend virtual info sessions.
- Gather application materials like transcripts or recommendation letters.
- Complete one application at a time.
Once you’ve answered these questions, start researching programs that align with your criteria. Focus on trusted institutions and prioritize flexibility if you’re balancing other commitments.
- Write down three tasks you can complete this week to move closer to your goal, even if they’re small (e.g., “Find two schools to research” or “Contact admissions about program details”). ReUp Success Coaches can help you create a plan with deadlines so that you stay on track.
4. Focus on What Fits Your Life
As an adult learner, you likely have a busy life with work, family, and other commitments. It’s important to choose a program that fits your life, rather than trying to make your life fit into the academic schedule.
Consider options like online or hybrid learning, flexible class schedules, or programs that offer evening and weekend classes. The right program will support your success by aligning with your needs and goals.
- Make a list of non-negotiables for your education. For example, you might need a program that allows you to work full-time or one that offers financial aid.
- Use these criteria to narrow down your options and focus only on programs that meet your needs.
5. Seek Support Early and Often
Feeling like you have to figure everything out on your own is one of the biggest contributors to feeling overwhelmed. The truth is, support is available and reaching out for help—whether it’s from family, friends, or a professional coach—can make a huge difference.
ReUp’s Success Coaches, for example, specialize in helping adult learners navigate their educational journeys. They can help you create a personalized plan, set goals, and manage challenges as they arise. Similarly, talking to admissions counselors or financial aid advisors can provide clarity and direction.
- Identify your support system. This could include a coach, mentor, family member, or friend.
- Schedule a time to talk with someone who can help you navigate your next steps.
6. Don’t Overload Yourself with Options
Sometimes overwhelm comes from having too many choices. When you’re presented with dozens of programs, financial aid options, or schedules, it’s easy to feel stuck.
Start by narrowing down your options based on the essentials—your “why,” your non-negotiables, and your personal circumstances. Once you’ve narrowed the field, take it one choice at a time.
- Set a limit for the number of options you’ll explore initially. For example, research three schools instead of ten.
- Focus on making one decision at a time — for example, first decide on your preferred learning format, then move on to tuition costs and program duration.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
It’s easy to get discouraged when you focus only on how much there is still left to do, but every step forward is progress worth celebrating. Did you reach out to an advisor? Complete an application? Explore funding options? Celebrate these wins! Each of these builds confidence and keeps you moving forward.
- After completing a task, take a moment to reflect on your progress. Write down what you accomplished and how it’s bringing you closer to your goal.
- Treat yourself to something small, like a coffee break or an hour doing something you enjoy, as a reward for your hard work.
8. Remember: It’s OK to Take Your Time
You don’t have to make every decision or complete every task at once. The journey back to school is just that—a journey. Taking the time to do it right will set you up for long-term success.
If things feel overwhelming, pause and refocus on your “why.” Your goals are worth the effort, and each small step brings you closer to achieving them.
- Set a realistic timeline for your decision-making process. For example, give yourself one week to research programs and another week to schedule meetings with advisors.
- Remind yourself that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
Moving Forward with Confidence
Going back to school as an adult may feel overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be. By focusing on your “why,” breaking the process into small steps, and leaning on the support available to you, you can take the first steps with confidence.
Remember: You don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Every decision you make brings you closer to your goal, and every small win is a step worth celebrating. The journey may not always be easy, but it’s always worth it.
