As the title states, I'm a [F/27] and I want to go back to school. I had taken a few college classes right after high school, but I was working three part-time jobs and trying to take 16-credit-hours each semester. Needless to say, I failed miserably and was very burnt out. I failed half the classes and dropped out during my third semester. That was more than eight years ago.
For the last five years, I have been working at a job that I thoroughly enjoy, and haven't had much need to improve myself. As time goes by, however, I realize that making $17,000 a year at a job where there's absolutely no room for advancement is beginning to wear on me. I have decided to pursue a Bachelor's (ultimately a Master's, maybe even Doctorate!) in Psychology.
I'm still paying off the last $4,300 from my previous student loans, and I only have about $2,000 between my checking and savings accounts combined. My bills are pretty much equal to my income, so it's very difficult to save any money or pick up any new financial commitments.
I have already filed a FAFSA for 2018-2019, and have been qualified for $3,000 in Pell Grants, $3,500 in subsidized Stafford loans and $6,000 in un-subsidized Stafford loans.
Today my boss tells me that my education CANNOT interfere with my full-time work schedule.
Not only am I trying to put myself through college, but I might also have to find alternate employment to do so.
I'm feeling very overwhelmed and almost like I have no choice but to stay where I'm at... Which will surely bring me to an early grave.
I need help sorting out the financial aspect of putting myself through college, and if any of you fellow Redditors have had any experiences like mine, I'd love to hear any words of encouragement from you.
Thank you for your help!
UPDATE: Thanks to everyone for your input and support!! I certainly don't have all the answers I wanted, but I do have a much clearer image of the course I feel I should take. I will likely be dropping the focus from psych to another, more versatile degree. I will be taking advantage of online courses through my local community college until the time is right to join a class in a classroom, and eventually transfer to the university in my city. I will be seeking employment which may assist me with the tuition costs. I believe this to be the best path for me, at least right now.
Again, thank you all for your help. This conversation has been a game-changer.
Submitted December 26, 2017 at 06:05PM by zombeatrice http://ift.tt/2ldj2nn
