How I did it: This was not an easy thing for me. It took some major changes in my life, basically I had to hit rock bottom, end some bad relationships, start feeling better about myself, and move to a new town and start my life all over. Only then I realised it was time to try going back to school. It was sort of just a trial, but once I got into it and realised I actually enjoyed it and was getting good grades for the first time in many years, I was hooked and wanted to stay in school. So far I have been in back in school for about a year.

Lessons & tips: Time is of key importance. Not only the obvious of managing your time, and being on time to class, but constantly being aware of deadlines, dates, and resources available to you inside and outside the school. Don't close your eyes to things. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Always know your options and resources- Knowledge is power! Though it can be difficult when lots of other stuff is going on around you like jobs and family and social life, keeping your eye on the ball is extremely important. I have suffered losses already in my school experience because I have not always paid enough attention to time or taken advantage of all resources.

Resources: I'm not going to lie, the decision was not all mine. It took one special person, sort of a mentor, to come into my life and she helped motivate me to do it. It scares me to think I might not have "taken the plunge" without her pushing me, and I often feel like I owe a lot to her. Yet I know that I was the one who really did this and I need to congratulate myself sometimes too.
This reminds me, one of my wonderful professors has said that "no one achieves greatness alone", and that behind every great person there was someone else who helped give them advice, or helped move them along.

Nov 07, 2010, 07:02AM PST | 0 comments | 6 cheers