Dear Campus Advisor:

I am twenty-seven years-old and I am currently working at a successful firm in the city. I’ve been working for nearly three years. Since I started, I have progressed steadily--two raises and a supervisor title. However, after one more raise and evaluation, I will have reached the ceiling level for my job designation. In order to further advance in the company, I need a B.A. degree. I can stay working comfortably at my current level and receive a raise in pay at every evaluation, but my job title will remain the same. I am capable in my job and enjoy the people I work with, but I would like to apply for a managerial position. I think I am ready to get my college degree. The problem is I have been out of school for nearly six years. I wonder if I can handle taking college classes again. Also, I am nervous about being a twenty-seven-year-old sophomore in college. How can I come to a conclusion to this dilemma?

You are experiencing a career crossroads which many young adults your age face, whether in college or working. Students in college wonder if they need to "stop out" and get "real world" experience. Others, like you, who chose work instead of college, now wonder about going to or returning to college. The workplace challenges of today require all workers to re-tool or pursue additional education to remain competitive and advance in their careers. So considering going back to college is certainly a wise thought for you at this juncture in your work life.

I recommend that you meet with an admission’s counselor at the college or university you are interested in attending to learn about any special programs for returning students. You will learn that there are many individuals your age and older attending college today. You may even take classes through continuing education to test out your ability to handle college courses before officially enrolling in a degree program.

I also recommend that you meet formally with your supervisor to candidly discuss your career future at your current organization. Try to determine if a degree will definitely position you for a management opportunity. Be sure you know whether you would have your supervisor’s support once obtaining your degree. Listen carefully to your supervisor’s comments so that you can proceed in an informed manner. Once you have had this discussion, you are now in a much better position to make an appropriate decision. Whichever decision you make, I am certain you will succeed because you are willing to analyze your situation before acting. For some individuals, going to college was expected, and considered essential to getting a good job. Sometimes other options present themselves and the methodic, rigorous pace of higher education may seem less attractive. Often a lack of focus, bills, and poor study habits can cause a person to halt their pursuit of higher education temporarily. The important thing to realize is, where do you see yourself? Would you rather continue working a job knowing that you have never really reached your potential? Or would you rather sacrifice for the time being in order to achieve something you really want long term? As you complete your investigation of your options, know that the decision may be difficult. No one can accurately predict the future. You simply must weigh your options carefully. Seek God’s help in making your decision. Continue to believe in yourself and step out on faith. You will do that which is right for you and, you will go well. Best wishes. 

Linda Bates Parker is your Online Campus Advisor. She has authored the Campus Advisor column for THE BLACK COLLEGIAN Magazine for over 13 years. Parker is the director of the Career Development Center at the University of Cincinnati and president of Black Career Women a national organization.

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