Starting College In January + 4 Ways To Prepare

I’m so nervous and excited to be starting college in January! In just a few weeks, I’ll be a college student again. Do you have anything you’re looking forward to in the New Year?

I finally got all my paperwork turned in, signed documents, etc. I then had to schedule a call with the school to discuss my classes. 

Starting college in January

As I discussed my classes with the enrollment advisor, I told them I want to focus on one class at a time. Students can choose to take up to two classes at once. Maybe once I get the hang of college again, I can try two classes at a time.

College courses

The classes are 8 weeks long. He gave me the first 2 courses I am starting with! The second course is only 1 unit and more of a mini introduction to college! 

I also asked him how many classes I need before I earn a degree! Thankfully, I only need a total of 10 classes! That’s not too bad!

Past history with college

In years past, I’ve tried going back to college but it never worked out! It was overwhelming, time consuming, and I don’t think I had the focus or determination? 

The first time I tried going back, it was too much at once. The college has students enrolled in 4 classes at once! That’s a full load of course! Imagine trying to do that as an adult and a parent! 

The second time I tried going back to college, I tried to stay motivated because I would earn my 4 year degree in about two years. However, I only made it through one class! It was a lot of work. I was a full time stay at home mom and had no support!

This is the third time I am attempting to return to college! I am nervous. I hope I can stick with it this time. 

A huge turn off with continuing my education was the thought of taking on school loans. 

This time around, my school tuition is covered through my union! That is a huge relief! I don’t like adding debt or taking on loans!

4 Ways to prepare for college as an adult:

Dedicate a workspace to study, write, research 

Choose a comfortable place to study. For me, I don’t have a desk, I work at my dining table. I don’t ha e a lot of space and my space works perfectly. 

Best time to study

When is the best time for you to study? Mornings? Afternoons? Evenings? After everyone has gone to bed? 

I’m lucky enough to be a caregiver to my son. While he’s at school is my time to do what I want. I can clean, organize, write, relax, go for a walk, run errands, etc. 

Stick to a schedule

I like to stick to a schedule or routine. Establishing a steady habit helps me stay on track. I know what I need to accomplish each day. 

Make time for yourself. You’ve probably put yourself and your needs on the back burner. It’s okay to be a little selfish and make time for college. Remember your end goal!

Turn off distractions

These days, we are easily distracted by social media, texts, and phone calls. It’s the notifications! 

My phone has a “digital wellbeing” app. There is an option called Focus Mode that allows me to disconnect and when turned on. My apps are “blocked” from being used.  

Another easy way to limit distractions is to close all windows on your computer and only focus on your college tabs you have open on your screen. 

I’m scared as heck about starting college as a single mom! I am far from perfect but I know I want to do a great job in school. It’s going to take work, dedication, and focus. My biggest issue is staying focused and not let myself get distracted by life, social media, and phone notifications! I will literally have to put my phone in another room if needed!